Here's a deal if you want to check out the Cokin P holder together with a HiTech filter. I've used this setup for the type of shots you mentioned and it works well.


http://www.2filter.com/prices/htpackages.html (the website is a little disorganized but this link takes you right to the Cokin/HiTech deal)


You pick a GND from the list - specify soft edge or hard - and you get that and the Cokin P holder for under $60. It turns out you kinda need both; some shots call for a gradual transition, other times where there's a line of trees for instance on the horizon, that's when you'll want a hard cut-off.


What struck me most about these HiTechs is the amount of light they let through. I bought their recommended 0.6 first and quickly discovered I needed more light-stopping power, so I bought a 1.2 as well. Sometimes when it's midday and the sun is strong I need both together to get a balanced shot. The Cokin P holds up to 3 filters at one time, which is nice.


If you call and speak to the owner (sorry can't remember his name) he'll give you tons of info about filters in general.


Happy hunting!