Solid ND Filters [Archive] - DVXuser.com -- The online community for filmmaking

J Davis

06-22-2009, 06:58 PM

I just picked up 3 x FD mount lenses and I have a ciecio7 adapter on order so whatever ND solution I go for will have to work across multiple lenses choices.
After all - detachable lenses is the main reason to get this cam.

One option is to get a set of circular screw on ND filters for 62mm thread size and then buy different step up rings to match different lenses. Would be nice to avoid screw threads though.

I have a cavison 3x3 mattebox laying around and just for shi*s & giggles I threw it on – fits perfectly with the kit lens but it severely dwarfs the older canon FDs. Cavision also have a cheap mini rail system that would solve the clip on mattebox dilemma.

Kholi

06-22-2009, 07:10 PM

Cokin's definitely a really good solution to look into, J Davis. http://www.cokin.com/kits.html

For those looking, check that out.

I, myself, went for 77mm Filters and bought a step-up ring for every one of my lenses to make them match the 77mm thread. That way I could use the filters on any piece of glass, including the 77mm Threaded Tokina 11-16mm and Nikon 17-35mm without the need of step-ups. Then purchased a bulk of 77mm Cheap-ass lens caps on Ebay for like 10.00 to cover all of them. Got some white paper tape, labeled them, done.

I would suggest getting a second set of ND's as well. Specifically because stacking...

.3
.9
.Polarizer
.hood shade

Will start eating into your frame. Instead, you could stack

Also, Hoya marks theirs 2, 4, 8. Tiffen has some marked .3, .6, .9 and 1.2 in the circular threaded format.

As far as ND's go, I bought Hoya HMC's based on a few google searches. People were reporting great flare handling with minimal contrast and color effects. Tiffen's are nice as well.

Circular Polarizer I got was also Hoya, it's done quite well so far. Think I'm going to pick up a Linear Polarizer to go with my Circular Polarizer for a Variable ND.

J Davis

06-22-2009, 07:14 PM

Sorry to drop a noob comment .. what do you mean by 'stacking'?
Is that like combining .3 and .6 to get .9 ? Or am I waaaay off with that guess?

EDIT:
77 mm is a good thread size filter to have as thats the thread size mentioned by Jared for the fixed lens scarlet.

Isaac_Brody

06-22-2009, 07:19 PM

Is that like combining .3 and .6 to get .9 ? Or am I waaaay off with that guess?

Yes.

J Davis

06-22-2009, 07:33 PM

I had always thought that combining ND's (aka stacking) was a big NO-NO because it softens the image.

It was a post on reduser I read many months back where someone said it.

Mike@AF

06-22-2009, 07:37 PM

Kholi

06-22-2009, 07:40 PM

I can't even begin to say that's a nono. Bare in minds that it can only be preferenc when facets like image softness come into play. One persons soft image is smothers sharp image.

That's also why matteboxes with several stages and polarizer compartments exist. So you can stack nds and other filters when you want to shoot wide open with a 180 degree shutter.

Red resolves so much information that using soft glass in th first place is very desirable by many. A Disney job I dpd on second unit (first unit Matty G) we used super baltar cinema primes. They were so soft sometimes I couldn't tell if I was in focus or not. Lol.

But the image with RED was incredibly beautiful and did very well with the Ann of our older talent/subjects.

In short, stack away! Use what you gotta to get your shot. =D

Kholi

06-22-2009, 07:46 PM

Kholi,

Any reason you got a step-up ring for each and every lens? I was going to get a set of step-up rings for the common lens sizes (52, 58. 62, 67, 72) and just put the ring on when I needed to use that particular lens. This way I have a step-up ring for just about any lens I want to throw on it, whether it's my own or one I'm borrowing.

Are you using a Protection filter on your lenses? If so, did you put that on and then the step-up ring?

Miiike. Actually that wa the reason why I did it. Speed. I can just slap on the filters without trying to look for the right thread size. For me, the cost of step ups online were so little it just made sense to get one for each alon with a 77mm cap.

Also I'm actually not isn't uv or glass protectors. Mostly because I don't have room for them. Once I've got nds and the circular pola on then that's already a lot of glass and I don't want them edging into my frame.

I almost always roll with a polarizer as well. Some might say it's overuse but I love the sky, very very much. And every chance I get to grab a blue cloudy sprawl I'll take it. The pola helps. It also helps with blazing hot concrete!!! Which is very ugly in video.

J Davis

06-22-2009, 07:56 PM

In short, stack away! Use what you gotta to get your shot. =D

will do !

John Caballero

06-22-2009, 08:07 PM

I just picked up this at Adorama. I will test it as soon as I get the cam. If it works I'll get more.

http://www.adorama.com/TF62ND8X.html?searchinfo=Tiffen+62mm+Neutral+Densi ty+0.9+Filter (http://www.adorama.com/TF62ND8X.html?searchinfo=Tiffen+62mm+Neutral+Densi ty+0.9+Filter)

dvbrother

06-22-2009, 08:44 PM

If you're going the screw-on ND route, you may want to invest in the slightly more expensive ones that are multi-coated. It preserves the contrast of your image. If you've got a great lens, it would be a shame to sully it with a crappy filter in front of it. That's why I would also stay away from Cokin filters. But yeah, if you're using a matte box, the square, glass filters are going to do the trick!
BTW, I got lucky--I work at a TV station where we use cameras that use 82mm filters. And I just bought a 82mm to 62mm step-up ring. So I can use my ND's from work!

Kholi

06-22-2009, 09:13 PM

Multi coated all the way. These things are so cheap there's no reason not to get the best quality. This is on reason why I'm in love with using slr glass. It's the same for any camera that can take em though.

The low tech approach to video acquisition is just so damned fun!!!

saaby

06-22-2009, 10:07 PM

Used equipment is always an option. I picked up 3 B&W multi-coated ND filters online, used, for under $50.

Mike@AF

06-22-2009, 10:55 PM

If you use a linear polarizer and circular polarizer what's the range on the variable ND? Would you really need to have separate ND filters? Here's what I'm looking at:

Hoya UV/Protection Super HMC Filter
Hoya 62mm 0.3ND HMC Filter
Hoya 62mm 0.6ND HMC Filter
Hoya 62mm 0.9ND HMC Filter
Hoya 62mm Circular Polarizer Super HMC Filter
Hoya 62mm Linear Polarizer Filter
Hoya 62mm Duto Glass Diffusion Filter
ExpoImaging ExpoDisc Neatral White Balance (nice find on that Kholi)

Kholi

06-22-2009, 11:02 PM

I don't know if you'd need regular ND's anymore. I think I'm gonna try out the Homemade Variable and let ya know.

My fear, though, is that it won't polarize anymore so you'll still need regular NDs for that situation. No problem, however.

THe Duto I have as well and it's AWESOME for softening. I saw a full on comparison test on the internet with lots of softening and diffusion, the duto looked to fit my tastes.

Also, I just ordered up a CBL White Balancing Disc to compare with the ExpoDisc I have here. CHeck the thread again, there's a comparison up. The CBL looks KILLER for skin tones.

WHy are you going 62mm instead of 77mm? That way you can use 77mm glass. Largest is 82mm, I was thinking about going that way and I probably should have.
Might end up revamping soon for 82mm thread.

Mike@AF

06-22-2009, 11:26 PM

I'll await your results on the linear/circular polarizer mix. I'm not planning on ordering any accessories until the camera arrives anyways. I want to be 100% sure I'm keeping the camera first.

I thought about going with the 77mm size and still have a list of them in case I change my mind again. I don't have any lenses right now and not sure I'll be getting any. I checked with everyone I know that has lenses and they're all SLR still lenses no faster than the kit lens. If I was going to get any other lenses I'd want at least f2.8 and they just get really expensive for what I'd want. I like the Nikon AF-S D ED lens, but they're $1,500-$2000. I'm trying to keep this expense as low as I can since anything major I do will be with a Red. This is just to do some smaller stuff and have some fun until I get those bigger projects going (which will hopefully be in about 3-4 months).

John Caballero

06-22-2009, 11:35 PM

Yeah, multi-coated with magical powers. LOL. Fallacies never end.

J Davis

06-24-2009, 09:49 PM

Can anyone tell me ... is Hitech ND's as bad as Cokin? see LINK (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=search&A=search&Q=&ci=0&sb=bs%2Cupper%28ds%29&sq=asc&sortDrop=Price%3A+Low+to+High&ac=&bsi=&bhs=t&shs=cokin+p+nd&at=Brand_Hitech&basicSubmit=Submit+Query)

I don't know if you'd need regular ND's anymore. I think I'm gonna try out the Homemade Variable and let ya know.

What is the Homemade Variable ? can you elaborate?

Ben_B

06-24-2009, 09:51 PM

Is an ND a necessity for shooting in daylight with the stock lens, or just for specific situations like snow, beach, water, etc? The thing is pretty slow...

Mike@AF

06-24-2009, 10:44 PM

What is the Homemade Variable ? can you elaborate?

If you stack a linear polarizer and a circular polarizer, rotating the circular polarizer cuts light like an ND but in varying amounts depending on the rotation. I've never done it before and am curious to see/hear about Kholi's results.

Mike@AF

06-24-2009, 10:50 PM

WHy are you going 62mm instead of 77mm? That way you can use 77mm glass. Largest is 82mm, I was thinking about going that way and I probably should have.
Might end up revamping soon for 82mm thread.

I've been looking around more and can't find any 82mm besides my HVX200 lens. What is there that's 82mm?

Also, does it make sense that you could stack more filters if they're wider? Like you might be able to stack one more filter with 82mm than you could with 77mm? If so, might be a good reason to go with the larger size right there.

Martti Ekstrand

06-24-2009, 11:14 PM

Is an ND a necessity for shooting in daylight with the stock lens, or just for specific situations like snow, beach, water, etc? The thing is pretty slow...

Just a quick frame grab from yesterday around 19.00 when I went out to a local basket court where good pickup games are often played to test some faster action.

Shutter speed: 1/50
Kit lens zoomed ≈ 65mm: f/5.1
ISO: 100
CokinND8... + CokinND2!

So yes, NDs are a necessity for daylight unless you want crazy short shutters and I so need to get a variable ND :thumbup:

Jack Daniel Stanley

06-25-2009, 12:21 AM

How do you mount a Cokin holder-adapter thing on the GH1 with the kit lens? All lenses are of a different lenght. Right now I'm trying to find the best, circular filters vs. Cokin
That's why you get the holder adapter, so you can use the filters on all your lenses. The holder slides on to a little adapter that you fit to your lenses. The kit lens is 62mm. All my other lenses are 52mm. The holder I bought came with the 62mm ring and I bought a 52mm one for 9 dollars.

I had always thought that combining ND's (aka stacking) was a big NO-NO because it softens the image.

It was a post on reduser I read many months back where someone said it.
Well all of the Panny HD cams and the DVX come with two ND's built in that you "stack" if you turn both on. Don't know if that means anything, but those cams are getting away with it somehow.

...

Circular Polarizer I got was also Hoya, it's done quite well so far. Think I'm going to pick up a Linear Polarizer to go with my Circular Polarizer for a Variable ND.
I heard you weren't supposed to use a linear polarizer for video because it will interfear with auto focus?
Is an ND a necessity for shooting in daylight with the stock lens, or just for specific situations like snow, beach, water, etc? The thing is pretty slow...
Absolutely. You'll be stopped down to f22 (worst aperture for the lens) or have crazy shutter speeds. It's almost like someone took your manual controls away without an ND because you will be forced to shoot in ways you don't want. Forget shallow DOF, you'll be stopped down to f22. Forget average film shutter speed, you'll be way up there, etc.

For the action short in my sig I used the Cokin filter holder, ND.9 and circular polarizer.

Mike@AF

06-25-2009, 02:04 AM

I heard you weren't supposed to use a linear polarizer for video because it will interfear with auto focus?

And the light meter (i.e. auto exposure). I guess if you're going to be using in manually (by choice or because of lenses) though it doesn't matter. Still a good thing to keep in mind.

Martti Ekstrand

06-25-2009, 02:15 AM

I heard you weren't supposed to use a linear polarizer for video because it will interfear with auto focus?

That's apparently more of a problem with DSLRs with mirror box mechanisms

http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=174515

PhilD

06-25-2009, 06:30 AM

That's why you get the holder adapter, so you can use the filters on all your lenses. The holder slides on to a little adapter that you fit to your lenses. The kit lens is 62mm. All my other lenses are 52mm. The holder I bought came with the 62mm ring and I bought a 52mm one for 9 dollars.

Can you tell me what Cokin holder you used?

Jack Daniel Stanley

06-25-2009, 07:15 AM

Can you tell me what Cokin holder you used?
Holder
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/474682-REG/Cokin_CBA40062__A_Series_Filter.html
modular hood
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?ci=0&shs=CA255&sb=ps&pn=1&sq=desc&InitialSearch=yes&O=jsp%2Fproduct.jsp&A=search&Q=*&bhs=t&Go.x=17&Go.y=13&Go=submit
The above holder comes with a 62mm adapter ring - the size of the lit lens, and then I got a 52mm adapter ring which will fit all my other lenses
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/14090-REG/Cokin_CP452__P_Series_52mm_Adapter.html
So you screw that adapter ring on the front of your lens then you slide the whole box, with all your filters and the hood on it, etc, off / on to the next lens.

PhilD

06-25-2009, 07:41 AM

Thanks

With the added weight (minimal, I'm sure), are you sure it won't "fatigue" the kit len's zoom motor if I put more than 1 filter?

Jack Daniel Stanley

06-25-2009, 07:45 AM

Don't think so it's sooooo light. The filters weigh what they weigh, which hopefully Panny is anticipating you putting filters on their lense, and the box weighs about as much or less than a CD jewel case. Cheap plastic, but light.

PhilD

06-25-2009, 07:59 AM

Sold.

Just waiting for my FD lenses to see if I need Cokin A Series or P Series. Cannot find all lens diameters on the net.

Jack Daniel Stanley

06-25-2009, 08:25 AM

P series is good for the kit lens, and your other lenses will likely be smaller than that.

gmoe

06-25-2009, 05:46 PM

Hey guys just a warning having used cokin p, the filters are not true ND, they do have a color cast-- slight warm purple look-- still photographers use the cokin p adapter and then use the better Lee or Sing-Ray P filters, I haven't tried it on the GH-1 yet so you may be able to adjust your white balance settings to compensate-- also some folks who have tried the cokin p filters and who have put more than one filter on the cokin adapter have found vignetting issues.

Jack Daniel Stanley

06-25-2009, 09:02 PM

I heard if you stack them they turn pink or something. I'm seeing some odd color in the frame rate tests I did which I think was from the cokin .9 ND. So yeah, soundsl ike use the filter holder but put tiffens or something else in it.

J Davis

06-25-2009, 10:02 PM

Anyone know if you can attach a lightweight top flag to the cokin P holder?
or the holder hood?

AdrianF

06-26-2009, 04:09 AM

If you check Cokin site, it has a list of all the accessories for the different systems. If you want a flag it looks like it's only available on the larger z system mattebox, which I think is pretty pricey.
http://cokin.fr/ico6-mattebox.html

also some folks who have tried the cokin p filters and who have put more than one filter on the cokin adapter have found vignetting issues.
Again you could jump up to the z system for larger lenses, though I've used the p system filters on fx1/z1s and canon xl series and not seen any vignetting. Obviously it probably depends on the lens you're using.

Martti Ekstrand

06-26-2009, 05:01 AM

I heard if you stack them they turn pink or something.
Isn't that also infrared contamination that happens with all CMOS chips when adding lot of ND in bright sunlight? I think Sony EX-1 has it worst.

J Davis

06-27-2009, 04:06 PM

It seems there are three main brands of 85mm ND's that will fit the P holder. (as per B&H link (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=sort&A=search&Q=&sortDrop=Price%3A+Low+to+High&bl=&atl=&pn=1&st=search&mnp=0.0&mxp=0.0&sv=cokin+p+nd&bhs=t&shs=cokin+p+nd&ac=&fi=all&pn=1&ci=0&cmpsrch=&cltp=&clsgr=))
Cokin at around $20 each
Hitech at around $36 each
Lee at around $80 each

I've heard how the $20 Cokins have a color cast ... what are the Hitech ND's like ?

EDIT: link corrected

Martti Ekstrand

06-27-2009, 11:44 PM

The page 2 you linked too show graduated NDs, make sure you get solid ND like on page 1 there.

PhilD

06-28-2009, 07:03 AM

Isn't that also infrared contamination that happens with all CMOS chips when adding lot of ND in bright sunlight? I think Sony EX-1 has it worst.

On the Hot Rod Cameras GH1 tips it says to (always?) use a combination of ND and IR filters

J Davis

06-28-2009, 02:56 PM

The page 2 you linked too show graduated NDs, make sure you get solid ND like on page 1 there.

Yep ... you are right ... I did mean to link to page 1. (here is corrected LINK (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=sort&A=search&Q=&sortDrop=Price%3A+Low+to+High&bl=&atl=&pn=1&st=search&mnp=0.0&mxp=0.0&sv=cokin+p+nd&bhs=t&shs=cokin+p+nd&ac=&fi=all&pn=1&ci=0&cmpsrch=&cltp=&clsgr=))

If anyone has used HiTech let me know. At $80 a filter, Lee is pricey

Kholi

06-28-2009, 03:33 PM

If you can afford to get both Graduated and solid I'd do that as well. I've been looking for a set of grads this weekend, just to have them.

Stuff's relatively inexpensive in comparison to the mattebox format that I'm mostly like "why the hell not!?".

Mike -- Most wide angle lenses have 77mm threads or 82mm. IN fact, the sigma 18-50 (I think it is) has an 82mm thread size.

You will rarely have filters creep into your frame at 35mm and above I think. Again, most wides are where the 77mm show up at. Even the larger 180/2.8 Contax Zeiss is 72mm instead of 77mm. If you don't plan on using wide glass (14 - 28) then you may have to worry less.

Dalton Boettcher

07-01-2009, 01:55 PM

If anyone has used HiTech let me know. At $80 a filter, Lee is pricey

Hey J Davis. I'm in a similar situation, looking into the Cokin P filter system and looking for the best bang/buck ND filters. Stumbled onto this discussion (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=249379) on different neutral density filters for the Cokin P system. A couple people use and recommend the HiTech brand. One calls them a cheaper alternative to Lee, but better quality than Cokin.

If I go the Cokin P filter system route, I'll definitely be using HiTech NDs. However, I'm still debating whether the Cokin system is the way to go or if I should just use screw-in filters with step-up rings as recommended by Kholi. Using lens hoods seems a lot cheaper/easier/better than the options available with the Cokin system.

J Davis

07-01-2009, 02:27 PM

Hey J Davis. I'm in a similar situation, looking into the Cokin P filter system and looking for the best bang/buck ND filters. Stumbled onto this discussion (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=249379) on different neutral density filters for the Cokin P system. A couple people use and recommend the HiTech brand. One calls them a cheaper alternative to Lee, but better quality than Cokin.

If I go the Cokin P filter system route, I'll definitely be using HiTech NDs. However, I'm still debating whether the Cokin system is the way to go or if I should just use screw-in filters with step-up rings as recommended by Kholi. Using lens hoods seems a lot cheaper/easier/better than the options available with the Cokin system.

I did the step up ring approach with my last cam. Was considering the P holder route because I want it for use with Scarlet later on but I've changed my mind.
Its because I bought a bunch of used FD lenses and I love shooting with them. A cokin P holder will just really dwarf them and part of the beauty of the GH1 is its discreet form factor. In the end I elected for step up rings and 62mm tiffen ND filters which are around $15 each. Very affordable. That way the cam is still fairly low key and won't attract too much atttention. (provided the I'm not doing sound)

Kholi

07-01-2009, 02:53 PM

I did the step up ring approach with my last cam. Was considering the P holder route because I want it for use with Scarlet later on but I've changed my mind.
Its because I bought a bunch of used FD lenses and I love shooting with them. A cokin P holder will just really dwarf them and part of the beauty of the GH1 is its discreet form factor. In the end I elected for step up rings and 62mm tiffen ND filters which are around $15 each. Very affordable. That way the cam is still fairly low key and won't attract too much atttention. (provided the I'm not doing sound)

PAHW!!

That' my very same reasoning. I think Matteboxes and all that will have a place, the range and freedom will probably come from traditional step up ring adaptations etc.

Don't forget to shop Ebay for your needs, you can get them i nbulk for about 3 dollars each. Also, make sure you grab some cheap 62mm caps in bulk off'a ebay as well.

I think I got like 10 77mm front caps (pinch lock) for 15 dollars shipped?

J Davis

07-01-2009, 04:36 PM

PAHW!!

That' my very same reasoning. I think Matteboxes and all that will have a place, the range and freedom will probably come from traditional step up ring adaptations etc.

Don't forget to shop Ebay for your needs, you can get them i nbulk for about 3 dollars each. Also, make sure you grab some cheap 62mm caps in bulk off'a ebay as well.

I think I got like 10 77mm front caps (pinch lock) for 15 dollars shipped?

Kit lens is on the shelf, but the Lumix 62mm cap is very useful ... LOL!

Mike@AF

07-11-2009, 03:20 AM

Circular Polarizer I got was also Hoya, it's done quite well so far. Think I'm going to pick up a Linear Polarizer to go with my Circular Polarizer for a Variable ND.

Hey Kholi, did you ever try the variable ND?

Kerplunk

07-19-2009, 06:20 AM

Have been checking out the Fader ND which has been mentioned in this thread and also positively commented upon here:
http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/canon-eos-5d-mk-ii-hd/237031-neutral-density-filters-5d-4.html

Haven't been able to find it currently available in 62mm - only 67mm (which then steps it up to a 72mm).

Anyone see any problems with using a 62-67 step-up ring on the kit lens, then the Fader ND, followed by a 72mm B+W Kaesemann Circular Polarizer? Would this be a good combo?

Are there any advantages/disadvantages to stepping up like this rather than trying to get a 62mm Fader ND (which would step up to a 67mm)?

I'll probably stick with the kit lens for awhile, but would like to buy filters that would give me some flexibility with other lenses down the road. Even then, I'd probably initially be going with some Zeiss lenses with 55mm threads. But, a wide angle could also fit in at some point.

Thanks.

simonclivehughes

07-19-2009, 09:22 AM

Should work... you certainly wouldn't get any vignetting!

Cheers,

Mike@AF

07-19-2009, 11:41 AM

Kerplunk

07-19-2009, 12:38 PM

Ha! Agreed, Simon...thanks.

Kerplunk

07-19-2009, 12:52 PM

From Kholi's suggestion I actually stepped up all my lenses to 82mm. This way I only need one set of filters for all of my lenses. Saves me money in the long run, although I'm having trouble finding a good 82mm lens hood that can accept a filter so I can still use the pola and circular pola. So, yes, you can step up to whatever size you want and it shouldn't hurt your image. However, don't forget to get a hood to reduce light hitting the glass that will affect your contrast and/or add flares.

Mike, appreciate the lens hood tip. Any suggestions on a good 72mm lens hood? Guess it's important to get something that gives easy access to adjusting both the variable ND and the polarizer - which is why I'm asking for some guidance since I'm just learning about all this stuff.

Kholi's suggestion makes a lot of sense. I don't foresee myself having a bunch of lenses anytime soon...especially nothing to justify the 82mm. That said, one never knows and I'm kinda tempted to go that route just because it's a really practical idea.

Mike@AF

07-19-2009, 03:50 PM

I bought one of these:
82mm Rubber Lens Hood (http://cgi.ebay.com/82mm-Universal-Rubber-Lens-Hood-Normal-Tele-Wide-Zoom_W0QQitemZ370231650539QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLens_ Accessories?hash=item563386a8eb&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262&_trkparms=%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A30#ht_4504wt_803)

Great thing about it is that it's adjustable for wide, normal, and telephoto lenses. It also has front threads to accept filters.

The problem is that it's rubber, and not a really nice looking rubber, so I imagine it will lose the uniformity of its roundness over time after being in a camera bag and having it possibly get a little squished. The other issue is that the threads seem worn and a little uneven. I was still able to put it on a filter and a filter on it.

So it works, but not the quality I would normally look for. I can return it for a refund, but not sure I will yet. I still need to find something similar but better and that hasn't happened yet.

Mike@AF

07-19-2009, 03:55 PM

Oh and on the filter size... I went with 82mm because I might eventually get a 21mm lens that has an 82mm thread. The wider lenses will usually be the larger thread size so if you're planning on getting any wide lenses like that then you may want to consider 82mm. Otherwise you might end up finding yourself switching everything out later, which will cost you more money overall in the long run.

Final Design Studios

07-22-2009, 09:22 AM

durangotang

07-22-2009, 09:26 AM

Here's the Wikipedia page on ND filters:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neutral_density_filter

Kerplunk

07-22-2009, 10:00 AM

So this may seem like a basic question, but what's a good range of ND's to have?

If I get a .3, .6 and a .9 will that be enough for daylight? Will it give me enough flexibility to shoot in moderately bright settings, not necessarily daylight?

Just ordered this Fader adjustable ND. Might want to check it out. Saves having to buy a bunch of different NDs (actually cheaper if you're buying good ones), plus you have it all in one convenient filter; saving space and the hassles of changing a bunch of filters. Some good comments here:

http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/canon-eos...ters-5d-4.html

And Phil Bloom was going to report on his experiences with it. Maybe he already did and I missed it.

eBay link:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Fader-ND-Filter-adjustable-from-ND2-to-ND400-67mm_W0QQitemZ140333159789QQcmdZViewItemQQptZCamer a_Filters?hash=item20ac82156d&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262&_trkparms=%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A30#ht_2063wt_978

Final Design Studios

07-22-2009, 10:02 AM

With this, I'd have to get a step up ring as well correct?

Kerplunk

07-22-2009, 10:09 AM

They come in a bunch of sizes. He had a 62mm, but the only ones he has now are 67mm and 77mm. I bought a ring to step up to the 67. That actually then goes to 72mm since the filter itself acts as a step up ring.

Final Design Studios

07-22-2009, 06:14 PM

So does anyone know what my 35mm and 50mm Nikon lenses would be? I'm trying to find a step up ring for them.

J Davis

07-22-2009, 07:28 PM

So does anyone know what my 35mm and 50mm Nikon lenses would be? I'm trying to find a step up ring for them.

thread size is usually written on the inside of your lens cap

yslee

07-23-2009, 08:03 PM

I have to say, the fader adjustable NDs looks really handy. Normal screw on filters are somewhat ok for still photography since they're not use that often and there's always shutter speed adjustments to mitigate exposure issues, but I can imagine them to be a hassle in video. Might get the 77mm one myself.

Edit: Bugger, he only has the 67mm one left.

Martti Ekstrand

07-24-2009, 02:28 AM

My experience is that in sunny daylight I need two .9 (ND8) for 100 ISO, f/2.8 and 1/50 sec shutter speed. Formatt / Hitech makes up to 3.0 density ND square glass for their or Cokin filter holders, haven't seen any screw-ons above .9 but somewhere they must exist.

http://www.formatt.co.uk/stills-filters/filters/standard-n-d/stills-filters.aspx

Tameside

07-24-2009, 06:37 AM

Just ordered a 62mm, this will be very useful. One of the problems switching from photo to video and one of the reasons I want to get away from polarisers is that really for stills you need faster shutter and for video slower, this vari ND should mean I can leave it permanent and rotate for photo and video as I desire, this is a very interesting filter, hope it doesnt take weeks am on vacation soon.

haojan

08-24-2009, 12:49 AM

If you stack a linear polarizer and a circular polarizer, rotating the circular polarizer cuts light like an ND but in varying amounts depending on the rotation. I've never done it before and am curious to see/hear about Kholi's results.

I could not find any post that discussed the experience with the homemade variable ND (linear and circular polarizers). Anyone here came across a review? I believe you mentioned using 82mm filters to fit all lens sizes. What do you think of using these step up rings (http://tinyurl.com/myuscm) with 82mm filters on the stock lens?