Light Craft Neutral Density Filter

O

oldnick

Suspended / Banned
Messages
218
Edit My Images
Yes
I've have been trying this new toy today, but have been surprised that the metering on my D60 does no seem to work when the filter is very dark. Using the settings suggested by the camera I get very, very under exposed shots. Switching to full manual, and using trial and error I can get it right, but is this normal or is my camera faulty?
 
How are you metering? Evaluative or spot metering within the frame?
 
Are you metering without the filter then adjusting your exposure by 10 stops after putting the filter on?
 
I'm just using the default metering mode - matrix I think, with the filter in place. I have experienced this under exposure problem before in very low light conditions. Again by going into full manual I have been able to get good results, but only by trial and error.
 
if you have a 10 stop filter, I would advise you do the following

1. focus and meter your shot before putting on the filter
2. switch your lens into manual focus (to avoid the lens researching for focus)
3. Screw the filter on the lens
4. Switch your camera into manual mode and Remember the metering reading from above, and add 10 stops

A good rough guide for knowing what setting to go for, refer to the linked chart.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2264/2267881902_c346069f4a_b.jpg
 
Last edited:
My filter is variable so I have to guess the exposure, but is it normal to have to set everything manually or is this a fault with my camera?
 
The best LightCraft ND filter is the ND500MC which is nine stops, though it could be one of their other ones. Edit: sorry, just realised it's the LC Vari ND thing - good luck with that (it's hopeless with wide angles) and ignore the bit below about the ND factor :)

I'm guessing that the problem is light entering the viewfinder and upsetting the exposure. If that is not covered it will skew the metering to under exposure by miles. Even when it's covered the metering system will struggle when the shutter speed drops into the full seconds zone. It's usually best to do a few careful tests to see exactly what the ND factor is (my LC ND500 is around 8.5 stops and thay all vary a bit from nominal) and then calculate the actual exposure backwards. And then do a couple of test shots to make sure!

For the actual exposure, you must also cover the viewfinder as light leaks around the mirror and causes streaking and fogging. Canon supply an eyepiece cover for this, I'm sure Nikon do too?
 
Last edited:
oldnick said:
My filter is variable so I have to guess the exposure, but is it normal to have to set everything manually or is this a fault with my camera?
Click to expand...

I realise the Lightcraft filters are variable. The general setting for ND Filters are normally AV Mode (Aperature Priority), or in most cases manual setting. The link I sent of the chart is ideal for working out your setting dependant on the ND grade you choose. I would assume that once you have mastered it you will probably end up using the 9 stop end of the filter.
 
Thanks people, So I guess there is nothing wrong with the camera, which a relief as its just out of guarantee. I had not thought about light entering the viewfinder, but did wonder about the streaks I was getting - now I know. If Nikon did supply a cover I have lost it.

Generally I was very pleased with the filter and the performance of the camera on long exposures - will post the results later.
 
EOS7Pete said:
HoppyUK said:
Canon supply an eyepiece cover for thisQUOTE]

Yeah Canon do............ Cheap rubber slide on jobby. You have to remove the eyecup, and then slide the cheapo cover on. What have CANON Done? I remember my T90 of the 80's having a blade system that shut out the viewfinder at a flick of the switch.
Click to expand...

1D models have a built-in eyepiece blind. Pull the lever and down it comes.
Click to expand...
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top