Question about strong ND filter

[kry10]

I have bought a very strong ND filter, approx ND10 or above, basically, something as strong as a welding mask cover.
The reason for this is, I am off to Egypt and want to try some long exposures.
The filter is a Cokin P type, so, it slides into the holder, it will only fit in the central groove, my concern is that there is a gap from the filter to the lens, would this cause stray light to be received and could it affect my long exposure images ?

 

[G.K.Jnr.]

Hi, This has always been a concern with this type of filter system. Things should be O.K providing there is not very strong light actually falling on the filter from the side or from behind. I presume you will be mounting the camera on a tripod or on some sort of static support for your long exposures. What I have done in the past to avoid any risk of stray light etc is to drape something dark preferably black around the gap until the exposure is complete. Failing that a screw in filter would eliminate this problem.

Hope this helps and enjoy your trip you are in for a treat.

 

[simonkit]

Yes, it is a risk..it's the reason most 10stops are supplied with a gasket. On long exposures stray light can be a problem when finding its way through the viewfinder too, especially if directly behind the camera..good idea to cover it up

Simon

 

[HoppyUK]

Yes, light leaks will be a problem for sure. Suggest make your own gasket with multiple layers of thin card and build up to a nice snug fit. Need to cover the viewfinder too, as light gets in there.

Or get a screw-in filter, eg Haida from CameraGearUK. Great value.

 

[markmullen]

You can use a black microfibre towel (a good thing to have in your kit bag anyway in case your gear gets wet) as a darkcloth and wrap it around the filter holder to eliminate light leaks.

 

[hollis_f]

could it affect my long exposure images ?

The easiest way to get an answer is to suck it and see.

 

[happygolucky]

Or buy a Lee which have a nice foam gasket.

 

[kry10]

Lee filters are way too expensive, this filter was £1.65, so, the perfect price.

I might go for the black cloth or gasket option, we shall see.

 

[happygolucky]

Lee filters are way too expensive, this filter was £1.65, so, the perfect price.

I might go for the black cloth or gasket option, we shall see.

Tell me about it, the Lee ten stopper plus foundation kit and UWA adaptor cost me over £200.