Understanding Filters

[Original Poster]

Is there a specific thread that goes into detail about different filters and the effect they have on the image?

I am keen to get involved and use filters however have absolutely no idea what each type do etc.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[seltechpc]

Not a thread as such but everything you need to know about filters, what they do and how to use them.

http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/camera-lens-filters.htm

I hope this helps.

Paul.

 

[Original Poster]

Thanks Paul, that's exactly what I'm after!

Think I'm going to start off with some ND filters, any recommendations?

 

[Lesco]

wow Paul that is a great site thanks for that dude, Ive got a day off tomorrow Im going to read up big time, Im just getting into filters and the like as we speak so this is great.

Chris Ive gone for the cheap option of Cokin filters off of fleabay to get me started, Ive probably got a holder, 3 different size adaptor rings and over a dozen different filters now and its cost me around £80 odd for the lot, if you want to go pro straight away go for Hi-Tech or Lee just do a search you will see what I mean mate.

 

[Original Poster]

Thanks Tony, I'll look into all of those manufacturers

 

[seltechpc]

Thanks Paul, that's exactly what I'm after!

Think I'm going to start off with some ND filters, any recommendations?

It depends what your budget is of course and if you want square slot in or screw in round. I bought Lee filters, I understand that Hitech are an in between fair value filter. The Cokins do have a colour cast, they are also the cheapest of the bunch.

 

[Original Poster]

In terms of budget, up to about £300 if I can get a good variety?

 

[seltechpc]

Lee are probably the best along with Singh Ray for the square filters, for that money you should be able to buy a set of ND plus a set of ND Grads (either hard or Soft depending whether you take landscapes with hills or flat horizons. You will also need the sqare filter holder and adapter for it to fit your lens. If it is a W/A lens then buy the W/A adapter to avoid vignetting.

The problem with Lee filters is the very long delivery times, they are hand made to order and delivery is around 17 weeks currently. I actually waited 21 weeks earlier last year. The adapters and holders are not so bad neither are the ND filters which may be had off the shelf if you are lucky.

The advantage with Lee filters is if you want to get rid of them you will probably get your money back.

Slightly lower quality and a little bit shorter on the long side are the Hitech filters, I have no experience of these but others on here speak quite highly of them. They are cheaper, more easily obtainable and thinner than the Lee.

The choice is yours of course

 

[Original Poster]

Thanks Paul.

Delivery times does not bother me so may well look into Lee range