I've been using the cokin p-series system. I have some Hitech grad filters and some Singh-Ray reverse grad filters. I've used the ND8 grad filter and then dialed it back in Lightroom. This gives me the most natural effect. I also use the 2-stop filter and it looks nice as well. It really makes the clouds and the sky pop. Also, you need to use a polarizer with the filter. So far, the best polarizers for me, seem to be the B+W KSM filter, or my personal favorite, the Marumi Super DHG (nice and thin).





I've seen the graduated filters used many times and have begun to notice the "shadowed" tops of mountains or such that the filter does. I prefer my shots to look more natural, like I don't use a filter. I've found that using the 3 stop filter and bringing it down one stop in lightroom achieves the more natural look and feel. And, don't even get me started on HDR. I use HDR on more difficult shots, but again, prefer it to not be noticeable.





I've also found that you can shoot the scene, exposing the sky correctly. Then, go into Lightroom and use the graduated filter upside down, and lighten up the foreground. It's impossible to repair a blown-out sky, but bringing the foreground up a couple of stops doesn't seem to hurt the photo. There is also a way of taking a piece of dark cloth and dragging it, like a curtain, upward to simulate a filter, in dire situations.





This is a low end B+W polarizer with a 3 stop Hitech filter in a Cokin P-series holder. I then brought it back one stop with the graduated filter in Lightroom.





This is a shot with an older B+W polarizer, a Hoya ND400 filter and the Cokin P-series filter holder with a 3-stop graduated Hitech filter. I've modified the holder slightly, otherwise I can see the little nubs of the Cokin P-series hood on the edges of the shot. The 9-stop ND filter really makes the waterfall creamy. Also, in the background, is an interstate highway full of cars whizzing by. With the use of the filter, they magically disappear...





Amazing clouds and skies really make the shot...


This is a B+W older polarizer, with a grad ND 3 stop filter, and then brought back a stop in lightroom.





You need to make sure that you have a great polarizer as well...


Capn Scott