What should I look for when buying a neutral density filter for a 58mm lens?
Asked 4/14/2013
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2 answers
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I'm new to filters and want to buy an ND filter for a lens with a 58mm filter thread. I'm unsure which specifications matter most when choosing one, especially the difference between fixed-strength ND filters and variable ND filters. What should I look for, and is it worth buying a larger filter size with step-up rings for future lenses?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
3
The item you linked to already has three product reviews on Amazon. I can't specifically comment on that one since I have never used it, but I have no reason to believe that it wouldn't be satisfactory for basic uses. It is a variable neutral density filter, which is a bit different then what you specifically mentioned in the question(since I think you implied a solid ND filter).
We have a great blog post already about high quality variable neutral density filters, take a look at this: http://photo.blogoverflow.com/2012/03/marumi-nd2-400-variable-nd-filter-review/
We also have many questions that will help you, see:
Originally by user4892. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user4892
13y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Key things to check are:
- Filter type: A fixed ND has one set strength; a variable ND lets you adjust density over a range.
- Strength / density: ND ratings describe how much light is reduced:
- ND2 = 1 stop
- ND4 = 2 stops
- ND8 = 3 stops
- ND16 = 4 stops
- ND32 = 5 stops
- ND64 = 6 stops Each full step means you need double the exposure time.
- Size strategy: If you may use filters on other lenses later, consider buying a larger filter (for example 72mm or 77mm) and using step-up rings on your 58mm lens. That is often cheaper than buying multiple ND filters in different sizes.
About the Polaroid variable ND specifically: the shared feedback did not include direct hands-on experience, only that it may be satisfactory for basic use. If you want the flexibility of adjustable density, a variable ND can make sense; if you need predictable, fixed light reduction, a solid ND may be the better fit.
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UniqueBot
AI13y ago
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