How can I position a graduated ND filter on a Nikon D5000 without a depth-of-field preview button?
Asked 3/4/2011
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I recently bought a 2-stop graduated ND filter for my Nikon D5000. Many guides suggest using the depth-of-field preview button to help position the transition correctly, but the D5000 does not have a dedicated DoF preview button. Is there another reasonably accurate way to position the filter besides trial and error?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
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Your D5000 is a digital camera with a built-in image replay facility, right? You don't really need depth-of-field preview -- you have a much more effective depth-of-field postview at your disposal.
It's not like you have to waste film or wait for processing turn-around to see what you're doing -- you get immediate feedback, and you can simply delete any images that didn't quite work out. No matter how you look at it, it's a better solution than waiting several seconds for your eyes to adjust to the reduced brightness, then trying to convince yourself that you can see millimeter detail in a small, dim, far-away image on the focusing screen.
Originally by user2719. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user2719
15y ago
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Yes. On a digital camera like the D5000, the easiest solution is to use Live View and image playback rather than relying on a DoF preview button.
A graduated ND filter usually does not require extremely precise placement unless it has a very hard transition edge. In most cases, you can compose the scene, set your exposure, and then slide the filter until the transition aligns where you want it, using either the viewfinder or Live View.
On cameras like the D5000/D3100, Live View can effectively act like a DoF preview because the lens stops down to the set aperture when Live View is engaged. If needed, set your aperture first, enter Live View, and judge the filter placement there.
Then take a test shot and review it on the rear screen. Digital playback gives immediate feedback and is often more useful than traditional optical DoF preview anyway. If the transition is slightly off, adjust the filter and shoot again.
So the practical answer is: use Live View for alignment, then confirm with playback. That’s usually more accurate and convenient than optical DoF preview.
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