Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring)

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

I used to use a 10 stop filter before deciding to purchase the singh-ray. There were two reasons for that: 1) To get different gradients, and 2) reduce the inconvenience of focusing the camera, shifting to manual focus and screwing the lens in. The singh-ray solved these problems, but introduced another: vignetting. On a full frame, I lose at least 5-8mm of focal length if I want to have a clear picture. I picked up the filter with the thin mount to reduce vignetting, but it happens anyways. I am still going to keep the filter for images where I would need to zoom in.

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

This filter is the real deal. It comes with a very nice case, the build quality of the filter is second to none, and the optical quality is extraordinary. It is easy to screw on to the front of my Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens. Setting the degree of polarization and ND is very easy. My routine is:

-Set white balance
-Set the ND to min
-Orient the camera for the picture you intend to shoot
-Set the degree of polarization
-Ensure the focal length is >45mm (Using a Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR)
-Focus
-Switch to manual focus
-Set the degree of ND
-Meter in live view (the viewfinder is worthless when the ND is all the way up)

It may sound like a lot, but it's relatively quick and painless. One more thing, I recommend using this filter exclusively with a tripod. The slow exposures this filter can create are beautiful!

I really like the variable ND function, and the options it creates in broad daylight. The polarizer is excellent, and the warming effect is nice. The lamest thing about this filter is the vignette. My experience precludes anything wider than 50mm. However, if you're patient and take panoramas, this isn't much of a limitation.

Singh-ray needs to make a larger version. I'd buy it in a heartbeat.

Bottom line, if you can get over the vignette, you'll dig this filter. If you even think the vignetting will bug you, I recommend you hold off.

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

I use this filter with thin ring to reduce the vignetting to a stop for super wide angle lens. I am very happy it does not have any vignetting effect on my Olympus ED 50-200mm (100-400mm equiv.) lens.

I also bought other Singh-ray filters from B+H such as LB color combo and ND Vari (Standard) for different purpose. My intention of buying this filter is specifically for landscaping scenes as it gives me 2-8 stop ND plus it produces great colors for landscaping.

The result as it turned out was to my satisfaction because I am able to reduce very challenging bright light condition while enhancing the natural colors.

I wish Sing-Ray produces various sizes for this filter.

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

It's a bit expensive, but if you need the variable ND filter, this is definitely the way to go. I've only tried it on my 70-200, so I can't comment on the vignetting at wide angles.

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

As much as I like that it is both a Neutral Density and a Polarizing filter, the thickness is not wide angle friendly. On a full frame sensor, I need to go at least 40mm to avoid the vignetting. From a guy who usually shoots (landscaper here) 16-20mm, there is huge adjustment period. However, for my portrait work during mid day, this filter is awesome. Shooting at f2.8 with the Neutral Density dialed way up is a fun feature.

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

This product performs exactly as described. It is invaluable for water and seascape images. It is well made, works flawlessly. It is very easy to use and master. A must have for photographers who do serious seascape and flowing water photography.

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

While it is a little long up front, it is a great piece of gear. Used it on waterfalls last week. While pictures were significantly better than previous, it takes some time to get used to it as it does so much. Would purchase again! Not sure if I wouldn't try the front treaded one next time - sure hate I can't put the lens cap back on with the filter still being there.

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

People who shot film were accustomed to filters. In the digital age many use "virtual" software based filters. Truth be known. There are two types of filters that all serous photographers should have. A circular polarizer, and neutral density filters.

You can't truly replicate the effects of these using software. Sure you could spend a lot of time HDRing your sky to get close to the effect of a circular polarazer, but what about those silky smooth waterfalls, or artistic long exposures?? You can only lower your ISO so much....

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

Absolutely fabulous to dial in a little polarizing effect with ND all in one filter. Only wish it could be used with a wider lens without vignetting.

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

works as advertised
easy to operate
very smooth rotation of the variable lens

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

This is the easiest way to reduce light for long exposures. Especially good with moving white water, to get that milky/silky look. It is expensive, but is much easier to use, and smaller/easier to carry, than the Cokin style square/stacking ND filters.

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

Like the all in one neutral density filter and Polarizing filter

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

This is the best addition to my gear that I've made in a long time. Expensive but worth every penny. The Vari-N-Duo is easy to use and does exactly what it says it can do. Very simple.

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

good for water scenes

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

I bought the slim model instead of the regular model to avoid some of the vignetting issues on my canon 24-70 but it doesnt seem to matter. I still have vignetting until about 30mm.
The filter does as advertised. I noticed that near the maximum neutral density if my light source is not uniform I get some strange lighting issues.
Also it would be nice if the circular polarizer were marked for reference points. Also the filter rotates a bit too easily. Would be nice if there were more resistance.

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

I use this filter for portraits in harsh lighting conditions. Being able to go from 2.3 to 8 stops with the variable ND gives me better control faster than changing out multiple filters.

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

Replaces multiple filters (Polarizing and several ND) in one

Comments about Singh-Ray 77mm Vari-N-Duo Polarizing Variable Neutral Density Filter (Thin Ring):

I finally justified the expense last month. Living close to Great Falls of the Potomac provides the perfect spot to shoot long exposure waterfalls. The filter works as advertised. I use it on my 24 to 70 on full frame Nikon. Vignettes around 24mm. The build quality is great. Very easy to select degree of filtering. The effect is stunning. Just the cost keeps this from 5 star review! Will attempt some of the 30 sec exposure Tony Sweet raves about soon.