Filter stacking question

I've searcher for about 1/2 hour for the answer, with no luck, so here it is:

I have the Lee filter holder, 4" x 4" CPL, and 4" x 4" 0.9 ND filter. If I use both filters at the same time, which one should be placed closest to the lens?

I am pretty sure I read somewhere the CPL should be furthest away in the holder and the ND closest.

Martyn Anstis wrote in post #12991386
I am pretty sure I read somewhere the CPL should be furthest away in the holder and the ND closest.

That's what I seem to recall, also. Hoping someone can confirm this.

Something else that just occurred to me. When using just the ND filter, I've noticed that the same scene with the filter is darker than without the filter. I meter in manual and in both cases set the camera for a 'correct' exposure. Do I need to be using exposure compensation? I'm not sure if the camera's meter is having a hard time determining a correct exposure through the ND filter.

Nobody knows?

I can confirm that you should put the CPL in front of any other filters you're using. Also, definitely calculate exposures yourself, nd filters mess up your cameras meter readings as the densities of the filters get higher and higher. Basically use a chart (or do the math) for the best results.

sulli.gibson wrote in post #12993060
I can confirm that you should put the CPL in front of any other filters you're using. Also, definitely calculate exposures yourself, nd filters mess up your cameras meter readings as the densities of the filters get higher and higher. Basically use a chart (or do the math) for the best results.

so you are saying that the CPL should be furthest away from the lens?

Cokin in their filter holder that I own place the CPL closest to the lens and then you start stacking from there.

SteveJa wrote in post #12993099
so you are saying that the CPL should be furthest away from the lens?

only if you're using the spots in front of it...basically, you want the light to be polarized before it goes through other filters for best results. if you're only using the polarizer, put it in the first slot. if youre using an nd grad, put that in the first slot, then the cpl in the 2nd. would you notice a difference? probably not, but thats what LEE recommends, and it can't hurt.

sulli.gibson wrote in post #12993060
I can confirm that you should put the CPL in front of any other filters you're using. Also, definitely calculate exposures yourself, nd filters mess up your cameras meter readings as the densities of the filters get higher and higher. Basically use a chart (or do the math) for the best results.

Thanks Sulli! Do you think a 3 stop (0.9) ND will interfere with the cameras meter readings? Do you think it's best to get a base meter reading with no filters, then 'do the math' after filters are added (as opposed to letting the camera meter do its thing)?

it definitely sounds like it's affecting your meter. getting a base meter reading is more important with 10 stop filters (esp. since you can't really see through them and they REALLY mess with the meter haha). in your case i'd probably put all the needed filters in place then use live view exposure simulation or just over expose by however many stops needed (AKA don't follow your meter too closely, you'll get a feel for it) and then look at the final histogram and make adjustments from there. in the end you want to overexpose as much as possible without clipping any highlights.

sulli.gibson wrote in post #12993201
if youre using an nd grad, put that in the first slot, then the cpl in the 2nd. would you notice a difference? probably not, but thats what LEE recommends

The big question is, which is the 1st slot and which is the 2nd slot?

Is this from the camera's perspective or the subject's?

ahhh Live view can help so much in cases like these...usually

and I believe its CPL at the outermost because it makes it easier to adjust

LostInInaka wrote in post #12996155
and I believe its CPL at the outermost because it makes it easier to adjust

Now Premier-Ink says this;

Seems to conflict with what you are saying although I agree with you as it make more sense to have the polariser changing the light first. Heck, maybe it doesn't make a difference.

The filter order doesn't matter...I've shot with the polarizer in front, and at the back...no difference whatsoever. About the only filter that MUST be mounted closest to the lens is the Lee Big Stopper (due to the sealing gaskets on the backside of the filter). Its not as complicated as folks are making it out to be.

cagenuts wrote in post #12996036
The big question is, which is the 1st slot and which is the 2nd slot?

Is this from the camera's perspective or the subject's?

Typically, the first slot is the slot that's closest to the lens...

Thanks man!

Do you think I could do this?

From the outside in;
72mm CPL + 82-72 step ring + 77 LCW Fader ND (with outer 82 thread) + 77mm lens

Or will the step up, step down be an issue?