rydabyk Loc: Florida Panhandle

After a lot of trial and error I'm convinced that the 100mm square filters with a holder is the way to go. It may be a bit more expensive initially but cheaper in the long run, at least for me it was since my wide angle lens is 82mm and the other one I use a lot of filters on is 77mm, so the only thing needed to make it work is an adapter ring for each lens. Since I decided on the NiSi system, all of the adapter rings were included along with a CPL. However, There are many different brands to choose from and that is a whole other discussion.

Notorious T.O.D. Loc: Harrisburg, North Carolina

Yes, the Xume holders are very nice and I use them even for my lens cap. The Lee filter system is very nice and flexible but also costly. It depends on the number of different sizes you need, types of filters you need and how often you use them. It may or may not be worth that kind on investment for you.

Best,
Todd Ferguson

LoneRangeFinder Loc: Left field

The holders also limit the use of lens hoods.....

i do like the Xume concept--haven't tried it....yet.

amfoto1 Loc: San Jose, Calif. USA

Are you looking at Neutral Density filters (all gray, covering the entire image)? Or are you wanting Graduated Neutral Density filters (half clear and half gray, to effect only part of the image)? I ask because folks often confuse the two types of filters, which serve very different purposes and call for different set-ups.

If ND, then I'd recommend the screw-in type. They're smaller, made of optical glass and can be multi-coated. Bought in the correct size for the lens, the round type also can fit under a lens hood.

If Grad ND, then the only option is the rectangular type, made of optical plastic, more easily scratched and damaged and not multi-coated. Oversize, rectangular Grad ND also are difficult to shade very effectively... and a lens hood becomes even more important when using a filter... especially an uncoated filter. (There are round, screw-in Grad ND, too.. but they're not ideal because they put the transition from gray to clear the same place in every image, right across the middle.)

I don't understand your concern about losing focus when installing the filter. Why not just focus after you've installed the filter? I suppose if you're using a really strong filter, AF might fail to work. And it also might depend upon the lens... Some rotate or extend the front barrel to focus, which might be more easily bumped out of focus than a non-rotating, internal focusing lens.

But with the rectangular type there's the same concern, having to slide the filter into place and adjust it to match your image composition. There's risk of bumping the focus doing that, too. (Not to mention that with digital photography there's actually little need for Grad ND filters. There are several ways to achieve even better and more accurate results with multi-image or mult-processing/single image techniques and post-processing. I haven't used my Grad NDs very much lately... only with the occasional shot done on film, no longer use them with digital imaging.)

Personally I now only use round, screw in filters. So few types of filters are needed for digital (as compared to film), it's not a big deal even though my lenses use five or six different sizes. (Some lenses I never or very rarely use with any filter, so haven't bothered with any filters in that size.)

There's also a system using magnets to mount the filter. I forget the name, but it makes easier installing or removing the filter. (OTOH, I have a little concern about using magnets around digital media.... not sure if that might or might not be a problem.)

EDIT: Xume... that's the name of the system I was thinking of. Other folks knew it. I haven't used it.

jeep_daddy Loc: Prescott AZ

This is a real concern. It can be done but you must be careful. I used the screw on type for a few years and just sold them and switched to the Lee filter holder system. Good luck with your choice.

Notorious T.O.D. Loc: Harrisburg, North Carolina

The Xumes dont interfere with the lens hoods if that is an issue.
The Lee would preclude the use of the lens hood, but probably provide their own sort of lens protection like a hood does.

Best,
Todd Ferguson

Grimmster Loc: New Jersey

Keep Formatt-Hitech in your search also. They have a nice write up on holder vs screw-in. I like the Holder system. A good circular polarizer (screwin) is a must also. As with any glass don't compromise. Don't be tempted w/lesser grade/$ filters. To get those wall hangers good glass is Key !

skh1454

I have that lens as well and you are right, it's almost impossible to screw on a filter when its in M mode without changing the focus. You might try switching it to AF while you screw it on since that seems to lock it in place, then reset it to M when you have the filter installed. Haven't tried it, but it might just do the trick. Good luck!