Neutral Density Filter Question

[Gianna'sPapa]

I've come to the conclusion I need to purchase a neutral density filter(s). The problem and question, the budget is not unlimited, so if you had to purchase just one or maybe two for general all-around use, what would they be? I'm not so concerned about brand, I've used Tiffen and Hoya CP filters with success and I'm familar with B + W. How many stops or whatever the language is used, it seems to vary, would you purchase if limited to one or two? I've even seen the Genus, which is a variable filter. Has anyone tried that? All help will be greatly appreciated.

 

[My2Girls66]

I did it the scientific way, I didn't want to spend a bunch, not that they were expensive but I knew I wouldn't use it much. I was looking at Tiffens, ND .3, .6 or .9. I chose the the one in the middle.
http://www.amazon.com/Tiffen-67mm-N...ZCFY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1312897115&sr=8-1

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

I like your "scientific' method! I plan on using it a lot. I love to shoot at night and we have a river running right through our downtown that I can see a lot of possibilities. I will need a 77mm because I was given a set of 77mm filters and I use step up/down rings for my four more expensive lens. The 77's are a little more pricey.

 

[My2Girls66]

I had good intentions like with most things I buy
This is all I got.

 

[WDWFigment]

In my opinion, a 6-stop ND filter is most versatile. I use the B+W 1.8.

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

I had good intentions like with most things I buy
This is all I got.

I like the image! We have a walk/bike path along the river that goes for miles and miles and this is the type image I'm looking to get. Nice job.

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

In my opinion, a 6-stop ND filter is most versatile. I use the B+W 1.8.

Thanks Tom. I printed up the filter types from wikipedia, but never having used one, I have no reference point. I want to purchase a versatile one, gain some experience and then get more specialized. Thanks again!