Lense size question

[Max74]

Hello, I have a Nikon D3200 with the kit lense of: Nikon DX AF-S Nikkor 18-55mm 1:3.5-5.6G. It also says 52mm on the inside of the lense cap.

I want to buy a ND variable lense filter and I am seeing many different sizes for sale online.

What size do I buy to fit my lense? Also any advice on which brands to buy? I went to a local camera shop and they sold a variable filter for 109 dollars. I've seen some on Amazon for 12. I know you get what you pay for but wanted to get other's opinions. Thanks

 

[snowbear]

52mm. The lens thread size is what you are reading. It's also printed on the lens, probably above the serial number - it will look like Φ 52.

Yes, you generally get what you pay for. Try to stay with the main brands - B&W, Hoya, Tiffen.

 

[Max74]

Thanks

 

[Max74]

Also would you recommend a variable filter or a set of fixed single filters?

 

[astroNikon]

Unless you get a top end brand variable ND filter (which is hundreds of dollars), I recommend just getting fixed single filters.

Cheap variables can get this weird "X" on the image.
There's alot of example of that out on the internet --> 52mm ND Filter: Fixed vs Variable?: Open Talk Forum: Digital Photography Review

 

[Max74]

Thanks for the link. I'll get the fixed.

 

[Ido]

Even when it's a fixed, solid ND filter, there still is great variation between filters, at least once you get to the higher densities, like 1.8 (also called ND64; blocks out 6 stops of light) and up. At those densities, it's getting more and more difficult to create a filter that's actually neutral - light is then blocked unevenly, and the filter may cast a disturbing color that's sometimes hard to clean up in processing.

I've had very bad experience with a ~$40 Tiffen ND 3.0 (10 stops). It leaves a terrible magenta cast that, more often than not, is impossible to get rid of. You'll have to spend at least twice as much to get good quality at such a high density, but you should still expect some color cast. With the high-end Lee Big Stopper, I heard that there certainly is a blue color cast, but it only takes a white balance change to get true colors.