Graduation filters

G

gpc1

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Greg
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Morning All

I have a quick question or three re Graduation filters.

Firstly, do you use them and do you like the results

Which one, or ones would i need. (ND4 i think is the most versatile)?
Which ones do you recommend (brand, ND scale)?
Where is the best place to buy one from?

Lastly......Can the results of using a ND4 Grad filter on camera be replicated PP using photoshop (I have elements6). if so, do you know of a decent tutorial anywhere that shows how to apply a ND grad filter. ?

phew...think thats it....
:thankyou:

Thanks all

Gpc
 
The use of a ND Grad filter can be replicated by way of HDR, using multiple exposures. But the ND grad is much easier to get right. Without HDR you'd be hard pressed to reliably reproduce the results afterwards, put simply the grad filter reduces the range of light in the image to a range the sensor can more easily capture. If the sensor cant capture it, you'll struggle to restore it in PP.

You can pick up a Cokin system quite cheaply, and I've had plenty of good shots with mine, so would heartily recommend them. I bought mine from a local shop when we were on holiday, but morrisphoto packs a fair range.
 
gpc1, I'd recomend having a go with some 2nd hand ones or cheapo versions off ebay before committing to something expensive like a LEE kit. You can pick up Cokin 'P'-style ones from a few quid, with holders and mounting rings on ebay going for about £7.

I carry ND 2 + 4; ND grad 2 + 4; grad blue and grey grad, plus a polarizer for all my lenses.

The results can be varied but when you get them right, they kick the arse out of HDR shots, plus you've used your head – not software – to acheive the hard part.

HDR is becoming a lazy way to recover crap shots.
 
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