Step-Up Rings (Two-Step?)

BobClack · Feb 16, 2014

Is/are there any problems in using 2 (or more) step-up rings at the same time?

Example: I have a good amount of 55mm filters. I want to use them on other, older cameras with smaller diameter lenses. Tokina makes an adapter which will enable series 7-sized camera lenses to use my 55mm filters.

So far, so good.

The problem is, if I wanted to use my 55mm filters on a series 6-sized camera lens, I'd have to also use a series 6 -7 step-up ring. Would I run into vignetting, or other problems?

And if I'd want to use my 55mm filters on a series 5-sized camera lens, I'd need to step up 5-6, then 6-7, then 7-55mm.

Does anyone have experience using such a system?

Thank you!

Derrel · Feb 16, 2014

I've used a few dual-ring setups over the years, adapting + diopter lenses of a BIG size "down", to smaller-fronted prime lenses. Canon 77mm 500-D + diopter lens (aka close-up filter, aka close-up lens) with 77>72, then 72>62, then 62>52 step ring. It looked really stupid, but...the rings were really affordable from FotoDiox.

Vignetting is usually an issue only when the filter or ring is "small", and the lens in use is either "big" and/or or both "big" and "wide-angle".

FotoDiox has a huge selection of step rings.

If you go from a very small-front lens and UPWARD to a much larger filter or ring, the edges of the filter and or ring are usually going to be well outside the angle of view of the taking lens.

BobClack · Feb 16, 2014

Roger that Derrel and thanks. For what I have in mind, the lens and filter diameters should work well. Am new at this and I was concerened that the stacking might negate an otherwise suitably wide filter. Gonna give it a shot and thanks once again!

vintagesnaps · Feb 17, 2014

I have Series filters in my stash and got them as a lot (more than once) so don't remember offhand what size fits what; one of my box Brownies uses maybe Series V and its lens is a good bit smaller than my 52 or 55mm.

I'm wondering if the weight of that much stacking and a large filter would cause them to pop off. I suppose if you try it you'll find out how it works, might depend on the camera.