ND filters

[Phil Balsdon]

A variable ND will make it possible to do a smooth exposure adjustment similar to a video iris pull during a take (as opposed to the 1/3 stop increments in Canon EOS lenses). The variable ND will normally give you from 2 up to 8 stops of adjustment.

Choose a good brand though, cheaper versions do tend to affect resolution. Buy one to fit your largest lens front diameter and buy step up rings for your smaller lenses, then you will only need the one variable ND filter.

Regular ND filters are normally in .3 increments (1 stop) so should be available as .3, .6, .9, 1.2 etc. As well as Tiffen Schnieder also make good quality NDs.
If you have a matte box you can slide them in and stack for more ND cut rather than screw each filter on, but this is not as convenient as being able to rotate a variable ND for perfect exposure. You’ll have to change the variable ND (normally a screw on filter) every time you change the lens though.

Cinematographer, Steadicam Operator, Final Cut Pro Post Production.
https://philming.com.au
https://www.steadi-onfilms.com.au/

[Bill Bruner]

Casey – I paid $33 for an Opteka 77mm variable ND filter with step rings for smaller lenses. As Phil says, it is a lot easier to rotate a variable than to screw and unscrew individual filters. I have had no problems with resolution or chromatic aberration. Out of stock at 47th St Photo through Amazon, but you can get it from their eBay store.

Hope this is helpful,

Bill
Hybrid Camera Revolution

[Rob Manning]

HI,

Genus makes a very good ND Grad filter, and I believe the differences in costs between brands have to do with polymer versus glass etc.