ND Filter advice please

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I want to have a go at taking some pics of waterfalls, waves, fountains etc where the water is smoothed out. I understand this requires long exposures and that I really need an ND filter to achieve good results.

As I am on a fairly tight budget, I have looked on eBay and found some variable ND filters at relatively low prices. Does anyone have any experience of these - are they any good or would I be wasting my money?

Any advice gratefully received. :thumbs:
 
From the feedback I've read, you'd be wasting your money.. The results are quite inconsistent.. I use a Hitech system so probably a bit above the budget here, however you could get a Cokin holder and a single square filter for not that much money to get you started, and if it goes well, you can expand the collection in due course..
 
Thank you both Chris and Adam. Maybe a stupid question but do you require a separate holder depending on the size of lens you are using or does one size fit all?
 
potter said:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B009GTT2OQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1376900108&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX110_SY190

Thats what I have iirc... has all you need... different adaptors etc

Its by far not the best kit in the world but it seems to do the job.
I got them to introduce myself to filters properly without breaking the bank
Click to expand...

This looks a better option than the variable filters... Haven't used it myself - but would certainly prefer to give this a try rather than a variable...

You have a number of different sized rings in this pack that slide into the holder and then screw into your lens filter thread... Seems a sensible starting point for a practice - and if you enjoy it, and the technique gives you results you like.. You can move on to better quality filters...

Although personally I would stick with at least a genuine Cokin setup :)

There's a set on Amazon for just over £30 for a holder and 3 filters - plus another couple of pounds for the ring that fits your lens..

Cokin Amazon

I was once told - buy once, buy right.. buy cheap, buy twice...

As with everything you have to balance your budget, with your goal, and then make your choice.. Whichever you decide - I'm sure you'll keep us updated :)
 
i would save up a little bit more and get some good filters your lens is only as good as the glass in front of it when it comes down to filters
 
As mentioned in Mark's blog you could try welding glass. It can be picked up for a couple of £ on Ebay. You'll need to find a way of fitting it to your camera and set a custom white balance in your camera but it is a very cheap way of having a go.

Dave
 
Thanks to all who replied. The information has been most useful. :thumbs:

I will certainly purchase a filter soon and try out this technique. :)
 
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