 Spencer Doyle |
Graduated Neutral Density Filters I'm currently using a Canon 20D with the EFS 17-85mm lens (67mm filter size). I'm trying to determine which Graduated ND filter style is the best way to go. With my other filters, I usually use Hoya 67mm size. My concern with doing that for a grad filter is it seems the line would always be in the center of the image. For this reason, I'm also considering something like the Cokin "P" series, where I would have the ability to slide the filter up or down as needed for composition. Any advice you can share is much appreciated. Thanks.
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Mark Feldstein |
If you're relatively serious about your photography, then you really want an adjustable "variegated" ND filter. The Cokin series is OK, if you can get it to stretch over that 67mm lens. I think Cokin makes P rings available in that size. If not, there are other manufacturers like Lee, Sailwind, B+W, Hitech, and others. Graduated or variegated ND filters allow you to put the density where you want/need it without having to change your camera position or angle to the horizon. This is unlike fixed horizon, circular ND filters, even graduated ones. The nice thing about using resin filters from one manufacturer or another is that you don't need to keep buying more various sized filters every time you change format or add a different-sized lens to your arsenal. And, in the overall scheme of things, resin filters aren't altogether that expensive. In addition, they're available in standard sizes, so you can buy filters from different manufacturers to work in someone else's filter holder. Oh, and these types of systems allow you to stack filters in the holder to get different effects, say a sunset filter with an ND, and a warming filter like an 81B. My own preference is for the Hitech, which I've used for years and think is really the hot set-up especially when you own different formats and different-sized lenses. Kinda a one-size filter fits all. Take it light.
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Craig m. Zacarelli |
Hey Spencer, I just got mine from Singh Ray. It's the Galen Rowell 3-stop soft-edge grad ND filter and it's for the Cokin P holder (got that off Amazon). nd I use it on my 72mm lens with no problems! Go with the Pp size; don't use the screw in - they aren't nearly as nice... in my opinion.
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David Earls |
Just to add to Craig's post: Cokin P series adapter rings are available in just about any size. Singh Rays are the ultimate in ND filters as well as polarizers.
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Spencer Doyle |
Thanks Mark, Craig, & David for the quick responses. Looks like I'm gonna go with the Singh-Ray soft edge "P" size in either a 2 or 3 stop grad.
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- Carolyn M. Fletcher  Contact Carolyn M. Fletcher Carolyn M. Fletcher's Gallery |
Could somebody please tell me where to get these? I've been looking in Pop Photography at the ads trying to find one, but I couldn't locate one.
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- Carolyn M. Fletcher Contact Carolyn M. Fletcher Carolyn M. Fletcher's Gallery |
Could somebody please tell me where to get these? I've been looking in Pop Photography at the ads trying to find one, but I couldn't locate one.
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Patricia A. Cale |
Cokin just released the Z Pro Series for digital cameras. At Adorama, you can get a glass (not resin) graduated ND for about $55.00. Wolf/Ritz Camera also carries the Cokin digital filters along with the P holder and rings.
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Sharon Day |
Carolyn, you can get Cokin filters at B&H. http://www.bhphotovideo.com They even have the Singh Ray if you want to trot out the big bucks. Just do a search in their search engine and you'll find them.
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Craig m. Zacarelli |
great thing about sing-ray is that if it aint made and you want it, call them and theyll make it for you. they are exspensive but they are also, IMHO the best. forget the screw on ND filter.. I have never used one but of all the horror stories I have heard, they arent to good.And remember, as is with lenses... you get what you pay for. Craig-
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- Carolyn M. Fletcher Contact Carolyn M. Fletcher Carolyn M. Fletcher's Gallery |
Ok, if I'm understanding you correctly, if I don't want the screw on one, I want the P series? Right?
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Patricia A. Cale |
Right, Carolyn. The P series works with all square and rectangular filters. The nice thing about using the filters that slide in is that you can adjust where you want the filter to darken without adjusting your composition. All the major retailers sell these filters. And, the make depends on your budget and needs.
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Jack Utter |
Tip of the Day... Use a piece of paper, I use card stock, and bend the top to fit over the top of the ND filter and hangs down so the bottom of the paper ends where the ND ends. Now this is a LOT EASIER then stopping down the lens and using the DOF preview button, especially when it’s low light. I believe this technique was invented, or at least mentioned, by Brenda Tharp. Even though most of us don’t have the “extra” money to pay $160 + for a filter that might not get used very often, the most important thing to keep in mind is… The only thing between the subject and the Sensor (or film) is the lens (buy the best you can afford) and what you put in front of it, i.e., Filters. Jack
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