Star filter
Oct 7, 2012 09:46:15 #
Andrea
Loc: Naples, Florida
Hi, I got some advice from a very experienced photographer. He suggested that I use a Star Filter. (i had to google it since I had no clue what it was). Anyway, I have read on this forum more than once not to put cheap glass on top of expensive class. (i use canon L series mostly) Does anyone have any input or photos I could see with one being used? When I google it I saw a few images but nothing very impressive. Also, what is best 4, 6, 8 or 10. To me some looked like a windmill, others looked like starfish. Thanks everyone!!!!
Oct 7, 2012 10:59:58 #
That's a bit like asking an artist whether you should use a #2 brush or a #4 brush. Too many unknowns.
A star filter is a special effect one, and you will not use it all the time, just where there are bright points of light. Like Christmas displays. Or cityscapes at dusk. Or specular reflections on water or metal.
There is nothing wrong with a cheap filter on expensive glass if you are experimenting or seeking a special effect. Try some and see what you can do.
A star filter is a special effect one, and you will not use it all the time, just where there are bright points of light. Like Christmas displays. Or cityscapes at dusk. Or specular reflections on water or metal.
There is nothing wrong with a cheap filter on expensive glass if you are experimenting or seeking a special effect. Try some and see what you can do.
Oct 7, 2012 11:51:39 #
Wabbit
Loc: Arizona Desert
Andrea wrote:
Hi, I got some advice from a very experienced phot... (show quote)
Hey Doc ..... a star filter is probably not the type of affect you'll use too often and I would imagine that they're fairly inexpensive ..... you can check B&H for prices
Oct 7, 2012 13:50:30 #
You will find that almost all post processing software will offer the "star" effect these days. Using the actual filter on your lens is pretty much unnecessary anymore. And you have a LOT more control over the effect in PP.
Oct 8, 2012 06:38:27 #
Nothing special..Just playing around with a 6 point and some water.
Oct 8, 2012 07:09:59 #
Topaz has a "star effect filter" that is not too expensive if you are worried about putting a filter on your lens.
Back in the old days you could spend a hundred bucks for a star filter or just go to the hardware store. Buy a piece of aluminum screen. The lighter color reflects the light better than the black. Look for the finest wire you can find. In an old time hardware store where they do repairs you can sometimes get a scrap piece for free. Then cut a piece out the size of your lens. You can get a cheap UV filter at Walmart and just replace the glass with the screening.
These make really interesting night photos or Xmas tree lighting photos.
Back in the old days you could spend a hundred bucks for a star filter or just go to the hardware store. Buy a piece of aluminum screen. The lighter color reflects the light better than the black. Look for the finest wire you can find. In an old time hardware store where they do repairs you can sometimes get a scrap piece for free. Then cut a piece out the size of your lens. You can get a cheap UV filter at Walmart and just replace the glass with the screening.
These make really interesting night photos or Xmas tree lighting photos.
Oct 8, 2012 08:21:12 #
sixshooter wrote:
Nothing special..Just playing around with a 6 point and some water.
Software or filter?
Oct 8, 2012 09:07:11 #
Oct 8, 2012 09:29:45 #
Andrea
Loc: Naples, Florida
Thanks everyone. I want to take a christmas photo of my daughter with white lights in the background with a star light effect. I use Lightroom 3 does anybody know if it can be done with that program?
Oct 8, 2012 09:56:24 #
Wabbit
Loc: Arizona Desert
Audwulf wrote:
Here are 2.
Hey Doc ..... I can see keeping that on my lens forever .....
Oct 8, 2012 10:06:28 #
Audwulf wrote:
Here are 2.
I'd like to put a sparkle like that in someone's eye - maybe even bigger. :D
Oct 8, 2012 10:28:44 #
Andrea wrote:
Hi, I got some advice from a very experienced phot... (show quote)
I tried it with photos of Christmas decorations a while back, and I wasn't terribly impressed.
Christmas Lights
Oct 8, 2012 10:43:18 #
Wabbit
Loc: Arizona Desert
Aagaard wrote:
quote=Andrea Hi, I got some advice from a very ex... (show quote)
Hey Doc ..... looks like you were shooting through a trellis ...
Oct 8, 2012 10:50:09 #
TV broadcasters use star filters frequently at sports events and other night venues. I think the effect is annoying. I have one that I used with film cameras but haven't used it in years.
Oct 8, 2012 11:24:42 #
If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.