Looking for Variable Neutral Density filters?
 

I am looking for Variable Neutral density filters. These are things where you can select the density your want, even on the fly.

I am interested in what variety is out there, anybody know?


Thanks

Wayne.

I've never used them, but I've heard that the ones sold here are really good:
http://www.singh-ray.com/varind.html

You can make one yourself from a pair of polarizing filters. When they are in congruence, they'll have twice their filter factor, and a 90-degree twist will block all light. Downside is not knowing the exact reduction at any point between, but you could guestimate it and use a metallic Sharpie to mark the points of min and max and in-between.

Thanks for the replies guys. Yes, I remember it when I had a look at the one above (it even says that it will work with anything but polarisers). I am still interested in seeing what other solutions are available, as even the best polarisers I've seen kill a lot of light. I would like to find something that is almost clear, so it can be left on the camera in all conditions, as I walk around.

I've had a few ideas in times past on how to make one, but they are complex, or sloppy, a good manufactured product would be nice.

If you're looking for something that doesn't kill light, neutral density filters aren't what you need. If you simply want to protect the lens, get a UV filter but remember there are situations you'll need to remove it or it will affect your image which is why I personally don't like them.

I still want a ND like reduction, but something you can turn down to nearly 0 ND, so I can walk into a low light situation without having to ever remove it. Once you get below 50% light loss, polarisers cost heaps too. I think the one above is two 50% polarisers because of the two stop loss minimum. I think I might have a solution for a polariser that can have light loss of much less than 50% hopefully down to less than 10%, but unfortunately I haven't got the ability or equipment to design it. It was a solution to another problem I was thinking of today.

Anyway, so are polarisers the only solution out there?


Thanks

Wayne.