Black Rock, Galway 2010
The following is a guide on the use of ND graduated filters.
1. Zoom in on foreground interest.
2. Record exposure reading from camera.
3. Zoom back out and set recorded exposure in 'M' mode on your
camera.
4. Attach or slide in graduated filter.
5. Re-compose scene.
6. Keep graduated line horizontal by lining up with sky or horizon.
7. Do not worry if the camera exposure reads -1 or -2 stops that's
normal.
Alternatively
1. Attach your camera to a tripod, select Aperture mode on your
camera.
2. Select spot metering.
3. Take an exposure reading from a mid tone in the land and note
the shutter speed.
4. Take an exposure reading from a mid tone in the sky and note
the shutter speed.
5. Calculate the difference in stops between the two shutter
speeds.
6. This will be the max strength of the filter required.
7. Selecting one stop under will give the best natural results.
8. Switch the camera back to multi-zone metering and insert the
filter into the holder.
9. Look through the view finder or select live view to align the filter
with the horizon.
10. Use your exposure compensation to fine tune you final image.
Note: The white balance you set has a major effect on your final
image, avoid using auto white balance when using
graduated filters. Shoot in RAW so you can try out different
WB settings in post processing.