There are many factors to consider when shooting with a filter. I would recommend the following routine.
What am I planning to shoot?
This question is an important one to ask yourself but not necessarily one that needs an answer. If you prefer to leave it up to a decision at the scene, then you may need to pack more filters for contingencies. I currently own a hard case for filters and the 5 default filters I carry are:
• 15 stop ND filter
Particularly useful for shooting long exposures in the middle of the day.
@ Dylan Toh Shot with NiSi ND (15 Stops)
• 10 stop ND filter
This rarely leaves my kit as I use it during the day and at the ends of the day.
@ Dylan Toh Shot with NiSi ND (10 Stops)
• 6 stop ND filter
Likewise, this rarely leaves my kit as I use it during all lighting conditions.
@ Dylan Toh Shot with NiSi Medium GND (3 Stops) + ND (6 Stops) + CPL
• 3 stop medium GND
If I had to pick one GND to bring, this is my most used filter suitable for most conditions where the sky is in the composition.
@ Dylan Toh Shot with NiSi V6 + Medium GND (3 Stops)
• 3 stop hard edged GND
This would be my preferred filter for shooting scenes with flat horizons. I also use it as a 3 stop ND filter if needed by inserting it upside down in the filter holder.
@ Dylan Toh Shot with NiSi V6 + Hard GND (3 Stops) + ND (6 Stops)
What else is in my kit?
The above filters are just part of the story. Make sure you have other ancillary equipment that will help you maximise the use of those filters:
• Filter holder
Currently I am using the NiSi Switch holder with the V6 adapter ring and landscape CPL. I would advise using a filter holder that has the capacity to include a CPL and 2 slots for square or rectangular filters.
• Adapter rings
Make sure you bring the appropriate adapter ring such that your filter holder will fit on to the lenses you plan to shoot with.
• Remote shutter / Cable release
This will be essential to take images with exposure duration greater than 30 seconds (see bulb mode section).
• Cleaning materials
This is particularly important when shooting in moist environments like waterfalls or the seaside. I would recommend using a blower (for large droplets), kim wipes or a microfibre cloth.
• A steady tripod
Special situations
On the rare occasion when I am only going to shoot waterfalls on an overcast day and a difficult hike is involved, I may simplify my kit to include one lens, one tripod and one screw on CPL.
@ Dylan Toh Shot with NiSi Natural CPL
The Only Must Have Filter for Landscape Photography
by Dylan Toh
