filters

[Fidgits]

Okay, novice question again - sorry about that.

But what would i need to fit a filter to my D40x?

and what sort of filters would you reccomend? I guess usage is landscapes - perhaps sunsets/portraits etc - dont want to spend a fortune, but if it can improve my shots i wouldnt mind getting some?

[JulianHJ]

Filters generally screw in to the thread at the end of the lens. I have a Hoya skylight 1A or UV on the end of each of mine to protect the front element - though some might say this is unnecessary and will degrade the final image, and I have a circular polarising filter that is great for getting blue skies. I'm a total novice when it comes to other filters, so I'll stand back and wait for someone who actually knows what they are talking about...

[stigmundfreud]

Fidgit there are 2 or 3 types

1.) Screw in that cover the lens
2.) Cokin style filters that fit into a holder you screw into the lens
3.) Gel filters that fit on the back of the lens (not what you are after)

if ever you want to pop down to sunny pinehirst and I'll go over stuff with you - I wont even mention the price of interiors either

[Fidgits]

cheers for the offer... not sure i believe you about the interiors but wouldnt say no to some help!

[stigmundfreud]

I'll not mention them once, Its forgotten and over just leave it in the past will you!

If you are looking at getting filters I suggest trying out T4 as their advice is free and their products usually cheap (they will price match on most things too)

What exactly are you after? If polorising I suggest a screw in lens filter, if gradient I suggest something like the Cokin. Cokin do A and P. The p is their "pro" range which basically means larger filters to cover the larger glass most mid range lenses use.

What size ring is your lens? It will be something like 52mm, 57mm etc that is what you need to know when getting filters. Actually thinking about it the only 2 filters you would probably get would be a UV and a circular polorising filter for digital the rest would be the cokin type.

Also I wouldnt personally pay too much attention to the issues of sticking a 20 quid UV filter infront of an expensive lens

[RobDickinson]

I use cokin (and some knockoff).

For landscapes your going to want a circular polariser (cut down reflections make colours stronger), a number of ND Grads ( balance sky and ground) and possibly some plain ND's (lengthen shutter times).

(nd = neutral density).