Neutral Density Filters, rule of thumb?

comexback_kid

comexback_kid

Active member
Is it generally a good idea to use ND filters anytime you're outside? For my purposes I'm talking specifically documentary-type shooting. What about if it's an overcast day? And one final question, what are the downsides to ND filters (ones that attach to the lens)?

I tried a quick search for topics like these, I apologize if I missed anything, thanks!
 
Usually its good to use ND filters outside because if you didnt have it on..you'd have to set your F stop to like 11 almost closing the iris and some parts of the picture wont be properly exposed. If you have it on then you can properly expose the whole picture without blow outs or underexposed regions.

If it's overcast..I guess it just depends how bright it could be. If the picture looks bright enough without having blow outs or dark areas then shoot with it off but if its too bright then put it on.

The ND filters on the camera do the same purpose as a lens attached one.
 
Blckhawk, don't forget that ND's and ND Grads also decrease the depth of field of an image. If you are shooting run and gun, and you slap on two ND's, and open back up on the lens, your DOF will be much more shallow than if you were to not use any ND's and just stop down. So to most that is a great benefit of using the ND, though in some situations, maybe like yours, it would make shooting more difficult as you would have to be watching your focus marks more precisely.
 
Just think of ND's as sunglasses for your camera. Sounds corny but it helps some people 'get it'.

Granted, ND's don't mess with your color like some sunglasses can but imagine them as helping with depth-of-field and just the harsh sun.
 
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