 BetterPhoto Member |
Cokin -vs- Tiffen ? I'm having a filter dilema. I'm in the process of buying some filters for my AF lens 28-80 and 70-300. Cost, however, is an issue. But I do know how important filters can be to photography. I've been lookin at the Cokin "A series" filters and adapter rings. I'm leaning more toward them mainly for ease of use. I do know Tiffen is used by many pros, as well as Cokin, but I tend to hear more of Tiffen. Please, I'd like to hear from both Cokin and Tiffen users both pros and cons (if any). Any insight would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
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Jon Close |
I'm not a professional, but a couple of the pros/cons to consider are: (1) Do your lenses have a rotating front element when focusing? The Conkin system will be heavier, putting somewhat greater stress on the focus motor, than would screw-on filters. If the front element is non-rotating or the lens has internal focus, then this is not a problem. (2) You cannot use lens hoods with the Conkin system. While the filter holder itself acts as a lens hood, the filters are not as well shielded and may (or may not) be a source of flare. (3) With screw-ons, a graduated neutral density or spot-mist or other special effects filter will always be centered in the frame. With the Conkin system you can position the effect anywhere in the frame. (4) With screw-on filters vignetting becomes a problem if 2 or more filters are stacked on the end of the lens. The Conkin system can combine up to three filters without vignetting. NOTE: that Conkin recommends the wider "P" series for use with wide angle zooms like 28-80. System "A" will cause vignetting at focal lengths less than 35mm.
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Dave wittemann |
Hello, I use both Cokin and Tiffen filters. In the Cokin line I use mainly graduated color filters. The way the Cokin system is made it allows me to move the filter up or down to lessen or increase the effect. I shoot a lot of black & white film, for this I use tiffen filters. These are mainly solid color filters of differing strengths. For example, if I want to darken a sky I'll attach a red 25 filter and or a polorizer. If I want to soften a portrait I'll attach a green filter. The screw-on's tend to be made of glass and there for more rugged. Cokin filters are made of plastic and less forgiving. The MOST important filter you should own is a UV filter. It is optically clear, but cuts down on haze. I have one on each of my lenses for a measure of protection against scratching the lens ellement. Use the web to research uses of filters. There is a lot of info out there. Good luck!
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