NoSocks Loc: quonochontaug, rhode island

When it comes to filters, I'm as smart as a clam. I know almost nothing. But Christmas is coming and my daughters are asking for a wish list so, since I've been wanting to experiment with moving water, and I live at the beach, I thought I'd like to have a filter to smooth out the surf and learn something new. Problem is, I don't know what to ask for. What strength should I have to take a long exposure in the early evening, say around sunset or similar? Should I try a variable? Or maybe a set of three to have shooting flexibility? Plus, my girls have young families of their own, so Singh Ray probably isn't on the short list. However, I'll have to tell them something pretty specific because I don't want to end up with something from "Irv's Filters and Plumbing Supplies". Any suggestions?

Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA

Written just for you:
FAQ: Neutral Density (ND) Filters for Time Exposures
http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-26501-1.html

NoSocks Loc: quonochontaug, rhode island

Thanks Douglas.

Shellback Loc: North of Cheyenne Bottoms Wetlands - Kansas

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/674665-REG/Tiffen_77NDK3_77mm_Digital_Neutral_Density.html

Try this kit

davidrb Loc: Half way there on the 45th Parallel

When dealing with filters you are trimming the exposure triangle. Anything in front of the sensor will effect the exposure. ND filters are unique as their intended purpose is to block light. The fact that they are numbered gives indication that they vary in application. The photographer must develope a strong sense of detecting the various stages of each. Some shooters don't mind the variable density filters that are on the market. They are a little bulky as they try to do it all, but they are effective in reducing light. That is why an ND is used, and the blocking of light can be as difficult as adding it. The ND filters need time and practice, lots of both. They can add wonders to your sunsets over water, and a host of other situations. GL
8-) 8-) :)

troutisme

most people try to get filters on the cheap. this is a waste. you buy the good one and own forever: http://www.singh-ray.com/shop/vari-nd-variable-neutral-density-filter/

lighthouse Loc: No Fixed Abode

Easy answer.
For sunset - a Lee foundation system with a Lee Mini Stopper (6 stops).
Or a B+W ND106 (also 6 stops)

I would not buy ANY of the variables, especially not the massively overpriced Singh-Ray model.

troutisme

i think you can let someone else decide if singh ray is massively overpriced without some smart ass comment.whatever happened to just saying here is another excellent product and letting it go at that. peace comes from within.

now that being said lee are excellent products.

lighthouse Loc: No Fixed Abode

I will say whatever I like if I think it will help people.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/609253-REG/Singh_Ray_RT_86_77mm_Vari_ND_Variable_Neutral.html

As I said - massively overpriced.

warwoman Loc: NE Georgia Mtns.

Sounds like some folks are future candidates for the "Attic"!

Desert Gecko Loc: desert southwest, USA

Quonnie, I recommend reading Nikonian's link, then just Google ND filters (I bet Wikipedia will have some good introductory info.) I'll throw my hat into the ring and tell you a couple things, though:

Get filters dark enough for your needs to avoid stacking them. With high-quality filters you might get by stacking without noticeable image degradation, or maybe not. Stacking might also cause vignetting.

Imperfections of cheap (especially plastic) filters or stacking are more noticeable on wide lenses especially at close focus.

Variable NDs are nice but you cannot use the darkest setting on stills (but I've heard they're okay on video) because of irregular density patterns, or "X."

The Tiffen set recommended above is rated highly at B+H and at Amazon, but it's $25 cheaper on amazon.

B+H also has a Bower variable ND rated pretty good for a very reasonable price: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1014988-REG/bower_fn77_77mm_variable_neutral_density.html. I've been thinking about trying one.

You also might want an nd1000 to play with. With it you can "disappear" people and traffic in mid-day with a 20-30 second exposure. Amazon has a B+H in 77mm for $94.

Get your filters for your largest-diameter lens, then buy cheap step-down rings to use them on your smaller lenses. Be careful to not over-tighten them, and get a set of inexpensive filter wrenches just in case.

Finally, beware of counterfeits on eBay. I've done well with used Heliopan & B+W, but I'm leary of some of the new stuff out of China.

lighthouse Loc: No Fixed Abode

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kschwegl Loc: Orangeburg, NY

I'd suggest a variable density ND filter. A bit expensive, but you can crank in as much or as little ND filtering as you want, and see the results "real time". They're great for beach and snow where there's a lot of reflected light.

drmarty Loc: Pine City, NY

I use several variable NDOLA filters with excellent results. I hear lots of negative comments about them but I have had great results.

drmarty Loc: Pine City, NY

Correction - ND not NDOLA