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Need ND Filter Buying Advice
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Feb 11, 2012 23:40:05   #
JustBNme Loc: The Darkside...
 
globetrekker wrote:
I’m new to the DSLR world, and thinking about making my first filter purchase. (Will probably eventually buy a UV filter or two, although the advice on the desirability of those seems mixed.) One filter I’d definitely like to own and learn how to use is a solid ND filter. I’d like a 3-stop ND filter, 58 mm. And I guess one should always buy multicoated, right? (why is that?) So on B&H, with those criteria, I see 3 filters: 2 Hoya and 1 B+W. Priced at $26, 49, and 63. What is better about the middle and most expensive ones? Any reason that the cheapo Hoya wouldn’t be perfectly fine for a newbie like me? Thoughts? Thanks, hogs.
I’m new to the DSLR world, and thinking about maki... (show quote)


I too am just learning how to use filters and found this kit on ebay for a little over $30.00. The seller also sells other types of filters and such...I just ordered mine yesterday...


SET 7 RING ADAPTER + FILTER GRADUATED SQUARE + HOOD + HOLDER FOR COKIN P SERIES

Rings included: 49mm, 55mm, 58mm, 62mm, 67mm, 72mm & 77mm


http://www.ebay.com/itm/SET-7-RING-ADAPTER-FILTER-GRADUATED-SQUARE-HOOD-HOLDER-COKIN-P-SERIES-/350530726425?pt=Camera_Filters&hash=item519d426a19#ht_3467wt_1135

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Feb 12, 2012 05:29:44   #
MASMIWA
 
You might be interested in reading this article on how to create yourself a relatively inexpensive 'variable' ND filter:

http://www.digital-photography-school.com/create-your-own-variable-neutral-density-filter

You don't necessarily need an 'expensive' circular filter as described, but one that fits your pocket book. (you probably want to get a circular filter for your lens anyway). You don't need a box full of ND filters using this technique. You can get the 'cheapo' linear filter from Amazon or ebay, take your pick. I do this and works for me.

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Feb 12, 2012 05:37:09   #
raqcoon
 
All my circular NDs are Tiffen. I also have Cokin P gels. I like the concept of wide apertures in daylight, and I always use UV filters otherwise. Nevertheless, there's probably some sharpness compromise with filters, but I prefer not to expose lens glass to precarious elements.

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Feb 12, 2012 05:43:12   #
BGenie Loc: Sacramento, CA
 
globetrekker wrote:
ShakyShutter wrote:
Why do you feel a ND filter should be your first filter to purchase? Usually a polarizing filter to fit each lens is your first purchase.

Just wondering.


Hmm, I don’t have a good answer for that! I guess I just figured the ND filter allows shots that would otherwise be impossible. A polarizing filter just improves certain types of shots, right? But it sounds like one would need/want a polarizing filter much more often than an ND filter? Perhaps I should be looking to buy one of each? I appreciate you asking the question. I have much to learn.
quote=ShakyShutter Why do you feel a ND filter sh... (show quote)


It seems to me that you need to assess what KIND of photos you like to take the most BEFORE investing in ANY equipment to 'improve' such photos.

For example, if you like taking Macro shots or portraits, there is no point in buying an ND filter.

ND filters are mainly used for slowing down water/waterfalls. Do you take those shots? how often? often enough to justify carrying around a filter everywhere?

Plus you don't seem to be taking into account the variable ND filters, one filter, many different fstops...
http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-22199-1.html

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Feb 12, 2012 06:44:43   #
photocat Loc: Atlanta, Ga
 
Filters vary in their results.

Perhaps you need to think about going to your local camera store, take your camera and test various brands. Go home and put the results up on your computer (don't depend on the LCD on the back of the camera). Which one gives you the results you like.

Point your lens at the sky and try to include something with colors . Think parking lot, cars with various colors .

ND filters add warmth, sutle but nonethe less it can be seen, which do you like.

THe answers are very personal and what I like may vary from your taste. Neither is right or wrong, just different.

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Feb 12, 2012 09:24:17   #
BOB Loc: Texas
 
globetrekker wrote:
JimH wrote:
I'm assuming you'll be mostly shooting OUTSIDE, as neither filter is really necessary indoors, for the most part, IMO. ND filters darken down a scene so you can use a longer exposure. A longer exposure time is useful for getting that 'milky' waterfall/stream look, etc. Bottom line, an ND filter just lets you use a longer exposure time without overexposing. It ain't gonna buy you a whole lot except when you want to slow down time. In a static landscape, (e.g. a big ol hill sitting there, or something, a plain ND doesn't buy you much. Now a GRAD ND is actually more useful more times, since it lets you balance high-brightness areas against low-contrast areas and keep the exposure from going blooey. IMO.

That said, a polarizer is almost always useful outside in any but the dullest light, and gives you things an ND can not, and also can not be easily done in PP.

I'd get a good CP before an ND (and I did, actually...). Hoya and B+W make good ones. The extra $$$ covers better coatings, better glass, and better machining.
I'm assuming you'll be mostly shooting OUTSIDE, as... (show quote)


Excellent advice and explanations, as usual, Jim. Thanks. You helped me with my non-kit lens choices last fall, btw. I went with your two lens option. Plus a nifty fifty just for fun.

Yes, I shoot mostly outside. Definitely will buy polarizing filter soon. What is CP – circular polarizing?

I guess I need to think about whether to buy the graduated ND or non-grad. Seems no reason not to buy the graduated, unless they’re much more expensive than a non-grad ND? I don’t quite understand all the specs when I browse/drill down at B & H though. The filter size I’d want, 58 mm, is dimmed out when I look at 3 stop filters. Does that mean I can’t buy a circular ND filter for my 58 mm diameter lenses, and must look at rectangular? And does that mean I need some other thingy to attach it to my camera?

As you can see, I am like Sargeant Shultz on Hogan’s Hero’s - I know NOTHING!


:-D
quote=JimH I'm assuming you'll be mostly shooting... (show quote)


Buy a poliarizer and take the money for the ND filter and throw it in the trash! 30 years + photography and I've never had a ND filter.!

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Feb 12, 2012 10:43:55   #
Armadillo Loc: Ventura, CA
 
globetrekker wrote:
I’m new to the DSLR world, and thinking about making my first filter purchase. (Will probably eventually buy a UV filter or two, although the advice on the desirability of those seems mixed.) One filter I’d definitely like to own and learn how to use is a solid ND filter. I’d like a 3-stop ND filter, 58 mm. And I guess one should always buy multicoated, right? (why is that?) So on B&H, with those criteria, I see 3 filters: 2 Hoya and 1 B+W. Priced at $26, 49, and 63. What is better about the middle and most expensive ones? Any reason that the cheapo Hoya wouldn’t be perfectly fine for a newbie like me? Thoughts? Thanks, hogs.
I’m new to the DSLR world, and thinking about maki... (show quote)


While you are researching filters for your camera lens and future photos, take a look at the Cokin filter system.
http://www.cokin.co.uk/.

This system will allow you to purchase one filter for use on several different lens configurations. It is an investment in your future photographic work.

You can purchase the filter holder for the largest lens you own, or may obtain, and use adapter rings on the lens to attach the holder on all your different lens configurations. One filter for the whole lot.

You can stack various filters on the holder for unique effects without worrying about vignetting marring the corners and edges of your images.

Cokin filters are available from many of the larger camera stores (brick and mortar), and online suppliers.

Michael G

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Feb 12, 2012 11:12:27   #
Gregory Loc: Clinton, Iowa
 
I saw this Vairiable ND filter and woundered if it would be a good choise
http://www.adorama.com/VVVNDX77.html

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Feb 12, 2012 11:28:25   #
Armadillo Loc: Ventura, CA
 
Gregory wrote:
I saw this Vairiable ND filter and woundered if it would be a good choise
http://www.adorama.com/VVVNDX77.html


It looks good, but it only fits a 77mm lens.

What about your other lens?

Michael G

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Feb 12, 2012 11:43:47   #
Gregory Loc: Clinton, Iowa
 
They had it in all sizes

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Feb 12, 2012 11:49:05   #
Greg Loc: Maryland
 
Erv wrote:
You don't give the company names you are looking at. Go with a good company that has been around. The other thing is what lenses do you have? and how many with the same filter size?
Erv


Hoya and B+W ARE the brand names.

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Feb 12, 2012 11:55:57   #
TabascoEd Loc: San Antonio, Dallas,Texas
 
I seem to see a lot of exotic answers here. If I might offer advice to a new "filter user", I'd buy a GOOD clear glass or very light UV filter for each lens in the bag. The best filter made won't correct a lens scratch, and I can't tell you the number of times a sneaky shrub has taken a poke at one of mine. These simple filters are inexpensive and they can save you BIGG bucks each time they foil a cactus thorne!

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Feb 12, 2012 11:57:49   #
TabascoEd Loc: San Antonio, Dallas,Texas
 
I seem to see a lot of exotic answers here. If I might offer advice to a new "filter user", I'd buy a GOOD clear glass or very light UV filter for each lens in the bag. The best filter made won't correct a lens scratch, and I can't tell you the number of times a sneaky shrub has taken a poke at one of mine. These simple filters are inexpensive and they can save you BIGG bucks each time they foil a cactus thorne!

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Feb 12, 2012 11:59:01   #
TabascoEd Loc: San Antonio, Dallas,Texas
 
Sorry, folks. I hit the wrong button! Score one for tri-focals, more than I can count for old age!!!

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Feb 12, 2012 12:38:32   #
CAM1017 Loc: Chiloquin, Oregon
 
randymoe wrote:
If you are new to this perhaps you could buy used filters from Craigslist, eBay, or my favorite KEH. Google and save.

globetrekker wrote:
I’m new to the DSLR world, and thinking about making my first filter purchase. (Will probably eventually buy a UV filter or two, although the advice on the desirability of those seems mixed.) One filter I’d definitely like to own and learn how to use is a solid ND filter. I’d like a 3-stop ND filter, 58 mm. And I guess one should always buy multicoated, right? (why is that?) So on B&H, with those criteria, I see 3 filters: 2 Hoya and 1 B+W. Priced at $26, 49, and 63. What is better about the middle and most expensive ones? Any reason that the cheapo Hoya wouldn’t be perfectly fine for a newbie like me? Thoughts? Thanks, hogs.
I’m new to the DSLR world, and thinking about maki... (show quote)
If you are new to this perhaps you could buy used ... (show quote)


B& H also has used filters in there used Dept. that are reasonably Priced.

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