Jacko,
I didn't realise your camera only gave you 30 secs. Are you sure that there isn't a "T" position - for Time (as in Time exposure). You press the shutter button, it lifts the mirror and then opens the shutter - you then push the button again to close the shutter. It doesn't use as much power as other methods. I don't know all the modern cameras, but it was a common setting.
A cable release thingy isn't much more than about £20 anyway, so won't break the bank.
Filters. Yes, I would recommend Lee first off - sure, they are £30 a pop. But you get what you pay for and Lee make filters which do not induce casts - if you get one that does, they will replace it (before people start phoning in with "my Lee filter does this or that" - send it back, it shouldn't).
If you look at their website, they will try and sell you a Lee filter holder too...only of use if you use more than one filter at a time. I have the Pro set, I haven't actually used it for a long time. I use a couple of pieces of blu tac on the filter which holds it against the end of my lens (actually the UV filter ring - but you know what I mean) instead of bulking up with fancy filter holders.
Next recommend would be either Tiffen or Hi-Tec. Singh Ray are good too.
I would stay well clear of Cokin, regardless of how many people are happy wiht them. The likes of Joe Cornish use Lee for a reason....they are the best.
Buy them, if you need to be careful with your purchases, then buy the 0.6 first - it will do most situations (2 stops) to balance the contrast. had grad - set it to the horizon.
Polariser - again a good one. I used to use B&W, and thye are very good, but the Hoya Pro 1 polarisers are better on wide angles. They are lighter and thinner too, but not as robust. Just be very careful with them. My Hoya Pro 1 polarisers were about £130 each (I have 3, to save swapping when changing lenses). You will probably make do with just the one. DO NOT SKIMPON A POLARISER EITHER. A poor one is WORSE than none.
