I want to get a screw-on ND filter for my XF100 - never used one before - any recommendations? I want something decent enough to not degrade image quality. If you're using one of these, what have you found useful?

multicoating? what level - .6? .9? higher? variable?

brands? <$50 OK or do I need to spend more?

Thanks for any input.

You've got to be so careful when using filters with 1/3 inch chipped camcorders because of the very short focal lengths bringing any tiny blemish on either side of the filter into the shot. So as this filter will be your new front element, make sure you buy one with the best multi-coating you can find.

You should have a Tiffen or Schneider 58mm UV protector or clear filter anyway so if you run into something or something runs into you, you wreak the filter, not the lens. As for the ND, I'd probably suggest a ND.6.....2 stops should cover most of your applications. Also, if you are doing a lot of outdoor work, a circular polarizer should also be in your "tool box".

Jim Martin
Filmtools.com

Thanks! I found a B+W 06 ND multicoated for around $40, and a non-coated Tiffen UV plus polarizer kit for about $60 that I will be ordering soon.

Thanks! I found a B+W 06 ND multicoated for around $40, and a non-coated Tiffen UV plus polarizer kit for about $60 that I will be ordering soon.
I use a 0.9 ND filter, and set the gain to -6.0dB. This way on a sunny day you can turn off the automatic ND filter and just use the aperture to adjust exposure. I don't think a 0.6 ND filter will quite do the job.