GH1 ND filter, which one?

m43baby · Joined: 05 May 2011 Posts: 18

Hello, I see there are ND filters that you can rotate depending on how bright it is outside to shoot with full open aperture. Which one is better from these two? I will mostly shoot video but photos once in a while:

http://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Multi-Coated-Variable-Neutral-Density/dp/B004UFU7W2

http://www.amazon.com/RainbowImaging-Adjustable-Filter-Neutral-Density/dp/B004H4QVGW

LucisPictor · Expire: 2013-12-03

I don't know filters of those brands.

I just know that B&W, Helioplan and Hoya (and also Kenko) filters are really good.

kds315* · Expire: 2021-03-09

I tested some, but the color representation of the resulting image changes, so not recommended (a lot of money wasted actually). Fixed ND filters are much better.

m43baby · Joined: 05 May 2011 Posts: 18

I see.. so really the colors change and image/video looks that different?
So which ND filter should I start of with .2, .4, .6. .8? actually I can buy 2 of them so what's good to have that I'll use the most outside when It's very bright?

kds315* · Expire: 2021-03-09

I just founbd the info (as I was searching for updates on variable ND filters), that well reputed filter maker heliopan in Germany will or has release(d) a high quality variable ND filter!! Won't be cheap for sure...

Left: pos. ND0.3 (-1 stop) - Right: pos. ND2.0 (-6.6 stops)

(c) heliopan

((quote, Bob Salomon, sales agent for heliopan in the US))
Heliopan is now shipping their new Vario ND filter which is adjustable from 1 to 6.6 stops of ND by simply turning the calibrated rim on the filter. The Heliopan Vario ND filter is totally neutral in color, it is mounted in a black anodized brass ring that is cali- brated for ease in repeating a desired density.
The new Vario ND filter is available in screw-in sizes from 52 to 77mm. The new Heliopan Vario ND filter is available from camera stores in the USA.
Specifications:
• High quality solid brass rings. • Black anodized rings with stops at both ends of the ND range. • ND variable from 1 to 6.6 stops. • Color neutral regardless of ND value. • Calibrated, repeatable settings. ((unquote))

Here for instance a link to amazon selling it for a mere $282.99:
http://www.amazon.com/Heliopan-52mm-Variable-Gray-Filter/dp/B004OTXYME

P.S.: It seems not to have a front filter thread!!

m43baby · Joined: 05 May 2011 Posts: 18

thanks you are right. I also read that these cheap filters are just not recommended at all so I'm going to go with fixed ND filters. I do have some more questions:

1. I see that I can get a larger ND filter to accomodate several lenses with the addition of step up rings. Do step up rings degrade the quality of the ND filters in any way?
2. I have a 49mm SMC Takumar 50mm 1.4 and a 55mm Konica HExanon 40mm 1.8. What ND filter should I get so I can use it on both?