I bought my first camera just to record beautiful views on my way traveling. Not so serious at first, and not so much pro at this day. But it's been 3 years since I got my hands on my first camera-a Nikon D700, with the lens Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR and Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G, and been doing my shots regularly. Got a Sony A7R iii a year ago, with the lens Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM. I love doing landscape and macro.
At first, I just took my shots randomly, then after some time, I found myself checking all those videos about getting better at it. After seeing the versatility of a variable ND demonstrated in a video, I thought that's probably something I need. When I looked up that item I was astounded to see that the low-end for that series prices are about $250/$300. No intention to break my bank for photography just yet. So I started my exhaustive research on the internet. That's when I picked up on K&F CONCEPT. Reasonable price, good reviews, everything seemed nice. After checking some other similar items, I bought one K&F CONCEPT ND2-400.
To my surprise, I loved it! Good quality, very smooth adjustments, nicely constructed of metal. It allows me to set my lens at f8 and keep the exposure perfect. I got amazing waterfall pics out of this. This was around 5 in the afternoon. Nice, bright, sunny day. I was able to get 20-second shots with no problem and could have taken even longer ones.
It does take me some time to understand its limitations though.
First, it will compromise sharpness(I've read some reviews saying the K&F NANO series fix that). Guess then it depends on what you use it for. Works well for waterfalls and landscape shots, but assume not so perfect on portraits.
Second, there is some vignetting with wide-angle lenses. So careful to use it at its darkest. However, it's easily avoided if you pay attention to when it begins to happen.
That being said, absolutely recommend filter from this brand - I feel kind of dumb not having gotten any years ago, could have saved many shots, and could have lots of more beautiful pictures.
Since then I have bought 3 other K&F filters and they work great too (probably will share my insights later), also can't wait to try their new products, they are selling more pricey square filters. And I think they also produce tripods, backpacks, and lens adapters.
Anyone else who shared my opinion? Or any other recommendation at similar budgets? For now I think K&F CONCEPT is probably top 1 at this price range but happy to know other options.
