Step up/down rings

[binglemybongle]

Hi all,

Can anyone tell me what (if any) difference using a stepping ring will make?

I have a few filters for my standard canon 50mm lens (52mm diameter)
and im in two minds whether to get a step ring to use the same 52mm filter on my tele photo lens (58mm diameter).

I also have a smaller telephoto that is 62mm diameter.

Basically how much of a difference in diameter can a stepping ring manage?

At some point its got to start interfering with the shot.

Obviously if id got a larger filter, i wouldnt have this problem becasue using it on a smaller (diameter) would not make any difference at all.

But thats the beauty of hindsight! Never think of it til its too late!

 

[Hertz van Rental]

You can actually stack stepping rings so theoretically there is no limit.
It's always best to get the biggest filter size and step down.
If you step up from a smaller filter then there is the risk of vignetting. Using a smaller aperture can help cure it, but always check with a preview.
Using a larger filter can interfere with the lens hood of course.