Posted by Steve Konrad on November 28, 2006 at 6:18 PM
The only filter I currently use for nature photography (mostly landscapes) is a Tiffen polarizer. I have read a lot about graduated neutral density filters and would like to try one. I'm looking for some recommendations on the best set of filters to have in my bag. Thanks.
The best bang for the buck are the Hitech filters. They are neutral in color and fit in an inexpensive Cokin P holder.
Cokin also makes graduated filters but they are normally not neutral and will usually impart a purple'ish color cast.
The highest quality (at a price) are probably the Singh-Ray Galen Rowell filters.
The above are all resin filters and are very prone to scratching. If you prefer glass, Tiffen makes some nice ones but be aware that they are more prone to breaking.
Guy
Posted by Kent Staubus on November 28, 2006 at 9:14 PM
Ditto to what Guy said above. I use the HiTech 2-stop hard edged most, HiTech 3-stop 2nd, and HiTech soft edged 2-stop 3rd. I live on the Plains where the horizon is generally flat.
Kent in SD
Posted by Bill Chambers on November 29, 2006 at 9:10 AM
Definitely Singh Ray IMO. They're darn expensive but worth it. In the beginning I tried cheaper grads but was always unhappy because of either color casts they imparted or because of uneven or splotchy gradations. I haven't tried HiTech so I can't speak on those, but I have been wonderfully happy with SR. The SR reverse grads are next on my wish list.
Posted by Ed Cordes on November 29, 2006 at 10:35 AM
Steve, check out http://www.2filter.com/ "The Filter Connection" they have a lot of selection and the prices are right. If youi call and speak witht hem they are very helpful.
Posted by Keith Anderson on November 30, 2006 at 4:36 AM
I have used Singh-Ray filters for years, they are very good. I have just recently brought some Lee Grads as I need them for the lens I have on my 6x17, 105mm is a little large so Lee was the best choice. not cheap either mind you
Posted by Jack Graham on December 4, 2006 at 11:31 AM
I too use the Singh ray , but hear good things about the hi tech.
The Singh ray warming polarizer is a wonderful filter.
Discussion
6 repliesCokin also makes graduated filters but they are normally not neutral and will usually impart a purple'ish color cast.
The highest quality (at a price) are probably the Singh-Ray Galen Rowell filters.
The above are all resin filters and are very prone to scratching. If you prefer glass, Tiffen makes some nice ones but be aware that they are more prone to breaking.
Guy
Kent in SD
The Singh ray warming polarizer is a wonderful filter.
JG