About the ND filter
 

Does it actually make image quality decrease noticeably?

Should I avoid it when possible?

I haven't noticed any decrease in image quality, and it helps to cut the light... without having to screw anything on.

On the downside, you don't have multiple choices of gradients. In situations like that, it doesn't hurt to have several grades in screw on filters. And they help protect the lens.

<<<-- Originally posted by Keith Forman : I haven't noticed any decrease in image quality, and it helps to cut the light... without having to screw anything on. -->>>

I haven't noticed, too, but... wanted to ask to someone who had the camera for a longer period.
So... it seems I can normally use it without woring at all, right?


<<<-- On the downside, you don't have multiple choices of gradients. In situations like that, it doesn't hurt to have several grades in screw on filters. And they help protect the lens. -->>>

Yes, sure, but it's useful anyway, and.. well... my question was just aout image quality loss with it :-P

Thanx! :-)

No, the internal ND filter is not an electronic effect. That is, it's mechanical and imposes no "degradation" on the image. Of course, it does alter exposure properties.

Well, yes.

Anyway...does anyone know the exact light reduction factor of the internal ND filter, and, so... the difference in stops?

Thanx

just tried it
 

I just tried the ND filter. right now it is dark outside so I used a lamp to test it. I aimed the GL2 at a lamp when I had the setting to auto, after that I swicthed to manual and then it takes over the settings from auto mode. Being: 1/150 and f8.0
Now put on the ND, put the camera on auto, let it adjust and switch manual again. Now the settings are: 1/50 and f4.8
Now I am no expert on stops or math, but this should be the difference of the ND filter if I am correct in my test setup.

Some ND and F stop equivs .. any good?

http://www.tpub.com/content/photography/14209/css/14209_71.htm

http://www.cybercollege.com/tvp013.htm


Grazie