Neutral density filter

[vandervr]

I'm new to this, so if my question is hard to make out I apologize. I want to get a neutral density filter and wasn't sure if I should get a 77mm for one of my lenses or get one of the square adapters (that takes the square filters) I have a couple lenses so going with the square style seems like it would be more versatile. Any thoughts on pros and cons to each (individual circle style filter vs square)

Thanks!

 

[BrentC]

Get one for your biggest lens then buy step-up rings for your other lenses so you can use the same filter.

 

[yaopey]

I bought the square ND filter system for the exact reason you have mentioned. Got the 100x100mm filter holder that can hold most square and rectangular (GND) filters out there.

Have not used the screw in filter so can't tell you which is better. But I've never regretted investing in the square filter system.

The only problem I have with the square filter is light leak when I use it with an ND10 or 16 filter. But then Formatt-Hitech came out with a sealed filter holder system, works better but you can still get some minor light leak depending on where the light is coming from.

Maybe someone who used both has a different view?

 

[DonaldC]

I bought the square ND filter system for the exact reason you have mentioned. Got the 100x100mm filter holder that can hold most square and rectangular (GND) filters out there.

Have not used the screw in filter so can't tell you which is better. But I've never regretted investing in the square filter system.

The only problem I have with the square filter is light leak when I use it with an ND10 or 16 filter. But then Formatt-Hitech came out with a sealed filter holder system, works better but you can still get some minor light leak depending on where the light is coming from.

Maybe someone who used both has a different view?

This is the same system I use for ND filters.

Regarding any light leaks that may occur, I suggest taking a black cloth and drape it over the lens and filter in order to block unwanted light contamination.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[weepete]

100mm Square ones for me too. It's a more versatile system especially if you are using GNDs.

 

[Derrel]

100mm Square ones for me too. It's a more versatile system especially if you are using GNDs.

Yes, for GND, or graduated neutral density, YES, by all means, the square type! For regular, all-over ND, screw-in round filters are handy,and are affordable,and step-rings can be used for smaller lenses.

 

[Dave Colangelo]

I own some of each style and heres what I find useful about them, in the end its up to you and you need the filter to fit your mission, we here can only provide suggestions,

Square (slide in, sheet style, etc.)

Pros

• Faster to swap in and out in a rapid fire situation this can be a big help
• Slide adjustable, for your regular ND this does not matter but for a graduate you can slide the graduation across the image which can be hugely helpful
• Faster and potentially easier to stack
• General oversized so edge related issues are not a problem
• Lots of options out there
• The ability to use unintentional things like welders glass as a filter

Cons

• Generally bigger than their screw in counter parts, in some cases this could get in the way
• filters and mounts may be sold separately
• Generally you are talking more material so they may be slightly more costly
• Some times heavy if you get a fancy metal mount, tripod considerations should be thought about

Screw in, circle, (lens insert)

Pros

• Small and easy to carry around
• Firm mounting (wont slide out on you)
• No chance of light leak around the edges
• Possibly cheaper and easier to find used

Cons

• Potential for edge issues. Depending on how the filter is made the edges can be rough due to how its applied
• Fixed thread size, may require step down rings or you may be stuck on only some of your lenses
• Longer on/off time
• Occasionally can be tough to get on and off

In both cases there are expensive and cheap options and all will yield the results you pay for (although there is a happy middle ground). I have had great luck with a 3 stop ND 52mm screw in that I use for large aperture sunny shots on my nikon lenses its nice that I can set it on and forget it. I also have a slide in square style graduated ND that I like the ability to move the center line on.