Neutral Density Filters
Sep 24, 2011 11:24:20 #
There have been many posts that deal with the need for neutral density filters in certain situations. I understand what they are used for and why they are needed, but what density do most people in this forum use? When I researched them, I found many for sale ranging from ND 2 to ND 400. Any suggestions? And thanx in advance.
Sep 24, 2011 12:32:42 #
I had a difficult time with that, too. Couldn't get any information on it, so I went halfway and got good glass. One thing I can tell you for sure, don't forget to take it off when you come inside! :roll:
Sep 24, 2011 13:08:29 #
ND filters come that way so you can buy a couple or three, and mix/match them for even more. For example, if you get a #2, a #4 and a #8, you can actually, through stacking, get these variations:
#2
#4
#2+#4
#8
#2+#8
#4+#8
#2+#4+#8
Granted, you'll lose a ton of light by the time you have a 4 and 8 stacked up but that's what they're for, right?
#2
#4
#2+#4
#8
#2+#8
#4+#8
#2+#4+#8
Granted, you'll lose a ton of light by the time you have a 4 and 8 stacked up but that's what they're for, right?
Sep 24, 2011 13:14:34 #
That's a thought. But don't you run the risk of some refraction when you start stacking filters? I tried stacking a UV and a circular polarizing filter and the picture didn't seem very sharp, plus I got a little flare in there.
Sep 24, 2011 14:28:20 #
Sep 24, 2011 14:46:56 #
cybermomm wrote:
That's a thought. But don't you run the risk of some refraction when you start stacking filters? I tried stacking a UV and a circular polarizing filter and the picture didn't seem very sharp, plus I got a little flare in there.
It's possible, I suppose, but there's a difference between a UV and a Polarizer being stacked, and two basically dark pieces of glass, as ND filters are. Like I said, I haven't really had the opp'ty to use a #4 and a #8 recently, but I know it can be done.
Sep 25, 2011 07:26:30 #
jdtx
Loc: SA, Tx.
the brightness and contrast of the scene will/should dictate what nd filter you use..
Sep 25, 2011 10:16:22 #
rayford2
Loc: New Bethlehem, PA
Now that was an education on ND filters...thanks Bob
There was also a mention of sensor elements heating up during long time exposures in a DSL which I'm going to investigate and maybe bring this up in another thread.
There was also a mention of sensor elements heating up during long time exposures in a DSL which I'm going to investigate and maybe bring this up in another thread.
bobmielke wrote:
http://www.redbubble.com/people/peterh111/journal/4421304-the-ultimate-easy-guide-to-neutral-density-filters
Sep 25, 2011 15:45:25 #
From my understanding these filters are to decrease your exposure and or limit depth. I think a nd2 nd4 nd6 and nd8 are equal to 2 4 6 and 8 stops of light.They can be used according to the amount of exposure,or aperture you choose.
Sep 25, 2011 15:47:06 #
Sep 25, 2011 16:11:56 #
I use ND filters a lot. I have the 2,4,8 and I will stack them to get 30 second exposures. I have an increase in the small details of the phot being enhanced. If you look at the link I have below, the frog is a 30 second exposure with all three of the ND's stacked on CP and UV filters.
ND filters are helpful to blur movement (i.e. water is the most common).
ND 4 is most common and it gives 2 stops.
I would encourage you to keep using it and with a CP and UV.
ND filters are helpful to blur movement (i.e. water is the most common).
ND 4 is most common and it gives 2 stops.
I would encourage you to keep using it and with a CP and UV.
Sep 27, 2011 01:12:45 #
I am lost here. As I looked for ND filtes on Amazon, for my 58mm lens, they only show as .3, .6 and .9. How do these relate to the 2 to 400 NDs talked about here. Thanks for any clarification.
Sep 27, 2011 07:41:35 #
Yeah, ND filters are described in one of two different nomenclatures. I just lifted this chart from Wikipedia. Hope it helps.
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