Lens Filter Question

[DWalt]

As we have some knowledgeable camera guys here, maybe someone could answer a lens filter question for me. In going through some of my old stuff, I found a new in the box 55mm screw-in round filter called a Chromofilter E2. I did find that Chromofilter was the original name for Cokin (France). Anyway, this particular filter has a gradation of neutral gray, from dark to light, which extends about half the diameter, with clear glass below. There is an instruction folder in the box but I can't make heads or tails from it about what the filter is supposed to be used for - the most oblique instruction folder I have ever seen, nothing but doubletalk. Or maybe a poor English translation from French. I probably won't ever use it, but would still like to know its purpose. I am guessing it has something to do with changing the appearance of the sky in outdoor photography.

 

[meaneyedcatz]

Since it is graduated I believe it is for long exposures. The dark part would filter out an over abundance of light while flowing water for example would be silky smooth. There are others here who are more knowledgeable. Please chime in.

 

[Watchdog]

As we have some knowledgeable camera guys here, maybe someone could answer a lens filter question for me. In going through some of my old stuff, I found a new in the box 55mm screw-in round filter called a Chromofilter E2. I did find that Chromofilter was the original name for Cokin (France). Anyway, this particular filter has a gradation of neutral gray, from dark to light, which extends about half the diameter, with clear glass below... I am guessing it has something to do with changing the appearance of the sky in outdoor photography.

Yep, that's what it was for.

These days, you accomplish the same thing by using a gradient fill layer in Photoshop. Or selecting the sky in an image and using a new levels or curves layer to darken the sky to your liking.