I'm considering purchasing some grad filters and am undecided between Singh Ray and Lee. There appears to be only two retailers in Canada, one is Calgary, the Camera Store, for Singh Ray and Vistek in Toronto for Lee.
Having seen excellent work on the net using both manufacturers makes the choice more difficult. To date I have used a variety of Lee products and been more than happy with them.
Given my remote location, it seems inevitable it will be a mail order from firms I am not familiar in terms of exchange policy. Several mailings back and forth, should it be necessary, will drive up the price considerably.
While I have heard the praises of Singh Ray in the forums here, little mention has been made of Lee. Before I click that send button perhaps somebody who has experience with Lee or both filter systems might offer their opinion.
I just got new Lee filters this week and am about to try them (I have been using HiTechs). The only thing I was to warn you about is not to get them from the horrendously expensive Vistek! I got mine at Calumet Photo for $72 each. Since I have shipped them to a US address I didn't have to pay customs, but in my experience, filters sent from BH Photo didn't incur any customs fee other than the PST GST...hope this helps. Btw, the 4x6 format is awesome, these things are huge!
Posted by Dan Baumbach on May 27, 2008 at 10:36 AM
I started using Lee filters because I needed something larger than the standard size Singh Rays. I'm very happy with them. I was also happy with Singh Ray and they probably will take up less room in your camera bag. I ordered Lee filters directly from Robert White in the UK and the price was very competitive with the American Singh Rays. However with the current exchange rate, I'd expect that not to be so any more.
I've never used Lee filters so I can't comment on them, but I have been very happy with my SR's. One of the nice things about SR is that they're a small company and you can call at 800-486-5501 and chat directly with Bob Singh - he's very nice and will answer all your questions.
I also suggest checking on Ebay. I have purchased several SR's there for $70-80 and have been very happy with the experience. You have to be patient though as it may take you a while to get one at a good price.
Discussion
3 repliesHaving seen excellent work on the net using both manufacturers makes the choice more difficult. To date I have used a variety of Lee products and been more than happy with them.
Given my remote location, it seems inevitable it will be a mail order from firms I am not familiar in terms of exchange policy. Several mailings back and forth, should it be necessary, will drive up the price considerably.
While I have heard the praises of Singh Ray in the forums here, little mention has been made of Lee. Before I click that send button perhaps somebody who has experience with Lee or both filter systems might offer their opinion.
- Dan.
I also suggest checking on Ebay. I have purchased several SR's there for $70-80 and have been very happy with the experience. You have to be patient though as it may take you a while to get one at a good price.