Filters

[Amp34]

I was looking for a 4(ish) stop circular ND filter but they seem to have died a death recently.

I'm now thinking of a set of square filters. What would people recommend? I know Lee are the best, then there are Cokin and Hitech (the latter better?).

Looking to get an ND or two and a couple of grads as a starter kit for the GF this Christmas.

 

[Amp34]

Plenty of 4 stops here.

http://srb-photographic.co.uk/neutral-density-12-4-stop-filter-1297-c.asp

Are they actually any good though? B&W used to do one but don't do any more.

With these systems I'm assuming you can't use a standard polariser with them?

Cokin is out then, just lee and Hitech then.

 

[Amp34]

We always have the issue towards sunset when it's not quite dark enough to get long exposures with just a CPL and its too dark for a 10 stop. I don't find going to f/16 particularly great either. There is just a gap at the moment where the 2 second evening exposure is just that bit out of reach.

I'm still trying to decide whether to get her a grad set or just another ND filter. Lee are glass and Hitech are resin are they not? I'm guessing the latter is slightly more resistant to breaking? They would be used a lot while hiking etc., although I'm guessing when put in cases they are both pretty robust for travel?