Learning how to use a Singh Ray Vari ND

[Harpo]

Really like the first image. Love the change in tones from the first, second and third ridge, then finally the sky beyond. The soft detail in the cloud above the second ridge is nice too.

The second image reminds me of a "drive by" shot in a car with how blurry the clouds/water looks.

Knowing your style of 1:1 shots and a slightly larger (than normal) creamy/white frame… For some reason, in THIS particular image compared to your other B&W shots you've posted in the same format, the brightness of the border seems to be a little overpowering? Im wondering if its because the image using the vary-ND filter softens the image vs a straight b&w shot that has more bold contrasts and stands out more?

Looking forward to see your progression as you use this lens more as I have a Vari-ND on my wish list!

[Markvetnz]

I love it.

If I'm totally honest, part of it is still the excitement of actually owning this bit of gear. I hope I don't come across as someone obsessed with having the best/latest etc, but (and you have to accept this) given a whole lot of factors to do with history, I am proud of being in the position of being able to feel that I am able to own the best bit of kit in its field ... and have the ability to use it effectively. Sorry, it's probably a long story, because I'm not a materialistic person. (We've all got our complications and mine is all about being fed messages as a child, by various people including teachers, about not to expect to succeed in life!!)

I am excited also by what I see as the opportunities it opens up for different and exciting images.

I'm really impressed with these shots.On my 16-35mm (82mm filter) I can get some funny dark areas in the sky if I really push the exposure time right out. I must confess that I haven't really used it a lot. Donald, I find that like all things in life, when it comes to filters you get what you pay for. For a few hundred quid you have opened up realms of photography that new lenses and cameras would not. Just enjoy it. I'm sure you've worked hard all your life. The way I see it, as long as we aren't spending the mortgage money and there's a roof over our head and food on the table then we don't need to make excuses for wanting the best.

[Donald]

..... then we don't need to make excuses for wanting the best.

Thank you, Mark. A Scottish presbyterian upbringing has got a lot to answer for!