ND filter recommendations?

[randomlinh]

I'm looking to get a couple of ND8/.9 filters (small+large to share among my lenses). I just defaulted to Hoya HMC's for my UV filters (mainly as protection, altho I'm not sure I'll use them anymore).

Anyone have any input on the Hoya Double-Coated ones, or possibly the Tiffen (not the multicoated one)? Keep in mind I'll be using these double duty for film (mostly b&w) and digital.. if it matters.

 

[Jawo]

I have been looking at ND filters as well....and theres a large selection and wide variance in prices. I've always liked B&H filters....but the Singh Ray filters do look interesting, if expensive.

 

[virtuamike]

I haven't had very good luck with Tiffen filters, keep getting scratched up. Hoya's have survived me. They'd get my vote for budget filters. I use Rodenstock but they can be excessive.

 

[randomlinh]

Originally posted by: virtuamike
I haven't had very good luck with Tiffen filters, keep getting scratched up. Hoya's have survived me. They'd get my vote for budget filters. I use Rodenstock but they can be excessive.

do you have any comment on the HMC's vs the double coated filters?

 

[Alyx]

My recommendation. http://www.2filter.com/

I use Hitech Graduated ND and normal ND filters a lot. Much better than the Cokin filters if you are using the Cokin filter system.

I don't think it will make a difference going from film to digital. Polarizers are only thing that make a difference there (because of the focus system used in camera).

 

[virtuamike]

Originally posted by: randomlinh

Originally posted by: virtuamike
I haven't had very good luck with Tiffen filters, keep getting scratched up. Hoya's have survived me. They'd get my vote for budget filters. I use Rodenstock but they can be excessive.

do you have any comment on the HMC's vs the double coated filters?

From what I've heard, better coatings are easier to clean. Can't comment as far as optical differences.

 

[OdiN]

Singh Ray are some of the best, B+W is also good.

Hoya's are decent - the high end ones. As long as you stay away from the cheapest model Hoya you should be fine. Last I looked the SHMC were nice.

 

[randomlinh]

Originally posted by: OdiN
Singh Ray are some of the best, B+W is also good.

Hoya's are decent - the high end ones. As long as you stay away from the cheapest model Hoya you should be fine. Last I looked the SHMC were nice.

heh, well, the SHMC would be too high for me probably... just playing w/ my B&W film mostly outdoors (I want to buy bulk 400 film, but still use it outside). I ended up just getting the HMC, 2fliter didn't have SHMC anyway.