Rangefinder cameras like the Mamiya 7II or Hasselblad Xpan are smaller, lighter and optically superior to their SLR counterparts making them ideal for travel photography or for taking out into the hills. However the fact that you don’t look through the lens of a rangefinder is perceived as a huge drawback by many photographers as there is a common misconception that polarisers and neutral density graduated filters cannot be used. However, with a little bit of thought and preparation, any disadvantages can be quickly overcome.

A polariser can be used quite easily with a filter system such as the Lee Filters system or Cokin P. With these systems a filter holder is attached to the lens via an adapter ring and the polariser is slotted in or screwed to the front. For a Cokin system simply rotate the polariser to achieve the desired effect then carefully slot it into the holder. The Lee system is even simpler as the holder can be quickly unclipped from the lens, the filter rotated as necessary then clipped back.

Graduated neutral density filters (ND grads) are an essential piece of kit for the landscape photographer as they help to balance exposure between dark foregrounds and bright skies. Correct positioning of the zone of transition (from clear to dark) is important otherwise parts of the image that you don’t want darkening may be affected and the use of the filter becomes obvious. Positioning is not a problem if you are looking directly through the lens but with a rangefinder you cannot observe the effect that the filter is having and therefore a bit of preparation is necessary.

1. First of all make a mark at the edge of the filter to show where the zone of gradation starts (this is particularly useful in low light situations when it is very difficult to see the changeover).
2. Secondly make a series of marks, 5 or 6 every 3mm or so, on the outside of your filter holder, starting from half way down.
3. Next, take a series of test shots against a blank wall, positioning the mark on your filter against each mark on the filter holder in turn. Note that the test should be repeated for each lens you possess as there will be slight differences.
4. Once you have your results back you will be able to judge what proportion of the top of your frame is affected at each setting. Make a note of these.
5. When next composing an image gauge what proportion is sky and simply slide the ND grad to the appropriate marking. Hey presto – balanced exposures!


© Andy Latham May 2006