I'd second that. I have the filter you mention and usually get better results with the 'filter' built in to the K-r. Of course, that might just be me!

There has certainly been a marked absence of Pentax gear in my local Jessops since they had the half price lenses a few months ago. The range of lenses on the website has dropped markedly as well, so whatever the reason they are definitely scaling back on Pentax equipment.

Last time I was in they didn't have any DSLR's in the shop, just a Q and some compacts. The only lens in the empty Pentax display case was an ex-display 17-70mm which has been there a while.

It's a pity considering the Tesco Clubard deal which makes for some bargains, if you can find anything to buy, that is.

How do you achieve this sort of effect?

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PM replied. Decided to give it a miss as there already 2 other lenses advertised on here that I fancy and I don't really need it!

A bargain for someone.

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pm sent

Just checked Jessops's limited range of Pentax lenses. No price increases there - DA 17-70mm is still £329.95, for example, so might be worth a look, especially if you have some Tesco Clubcard vouchers.

Hi Kirsty

First up, the filter size depends on the lens - they are all different so don't assume that one screw in filter fits all as it won't.

I'm assuming you have the 18-55mm kit lens with your K-x which is 52mm from memory.

The advantage of systems like the Cokin ones is that you can buy just one filter and buy a range of adaptors to fit different lenses, but the downside is the upfront cost.

You will get mixed advice about a UV filter. Some people swear by them whilst others, like me, don't use them at all. Most people who do use them do so for lens protection, but a lens hood does a better job, in my opinion. A UV filter won't improve your images, again, just my opinion.

A polariser is a good choice for a first filter as the effects are difficult to replicate with software, unlike many other filters. Any of the major makes are fine, but look for a circular polariser. There are often some decent buys used on Ebay.

ND filters are more difficult because of the range of different types and strength available. One option might be the variable ND filter from 7 Day Shop. I have this and whilst it's not up to the quality of the £200 filters it is pretty good and will allow you to experiment with different grades of filter to see what you like and how you might use one. You can always upgrade to a more expensive one once you have a better idea of what you want. I think they are around £30 from memory.

It's perfectly safe to sand it down.

If it's anything like the Vivitar tubes then the paint is quite tough and hard to do manually with any form of neatness. In the end I used a Dremel with a small sanding brush which took it off neatly in seconds. I did the whole ring as it was so easy, but there is a specific area that need sanding - you don't have to do all of it.

Second from bottom post on this link shows the area of paint that needs to come off.

https://www.pentaxuser.com/forum/topic/help-needed-with-vivitar-auto-extension-t...#comm_273277