Approaching the Scene Quick Tips: Stuck Filter Threads, A Simple Fix

Here's a really simple and affordable fix for the worst stuck filter thread situation I've ever had. A link to the $3.50 'tool' is below.

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Thanks to everyone for the great questions you are sending in. Keep them coming either in the comments below or by emailing me directly. I hope to see you in the Tuesday Office Hours Session next week.

[wheetgeneration]

I loosened three stuck rings today using the same lid openers. Thanks!

[SouthernExposure]

Great tip! I've never had this problem... Yet. But I think about it every time I put on a filter.

[gosman]

Well I tried it and it worked! Incredible!

[CJGlynnPhotography]

HH, a great tip. Another thing that "usually" works is those blue elastic bands that come on your broccoli: one on each filter. The key is _even_ pressure all around. Stay safe.

[JoeHTX]

Good tip. I've been dreading the day that I get one stuck. I already have the silicone grip pads and they work great on jars, now I know they will work on the filters if I ever get one stuck.

[cjgetreal]

I'm amazed. I cranked really hard on those filters with my wrench while there in Kauai. It must have something to do with the downward pressure combined with the torque.

[davidarthur]

I've carried a variation of the jar pad in my photo bag for years now. They do work wonders un-sticking filters.

[alistairwilson]

Thanks for that nifty tip! Hope you're safe and well. Cheers from sunny Scotland.

[PaulBeiser]

Nice! Very clever, have struggled with this for years! Thanks ...

[gosman]

I'll try it. I have one that has been impossible including with the filter wrench, hot water, cold water, everything!

[AtlantaTerry]

Other high friction "tools":
* deflated balloons (toy or dollar stores)
* shelf liner (dollar stores) [put a piece between camera & tripod for more friction]
* vehicle innertubes (free for asking at bicycle / auto / motorcycle repair shops)

Terry Thomas...
the photographer
Atlanta, Georgia USA

[jpdj]

I'm going to finish watching the video, but. Note that some filters have an aluminum mount and others brass. Brass is more expensive but has self-lubricating properties. So, prevention is an option too.
With aluminum mounts it is also a matter of finding the start of the thread (counter clockwise) proper - straight - insertion and not tightening too much. If you have fine motor skills and sensitive finger tips, you'll feel aluminum threads don't run really smooth, so all filters you use temporarily do not have to be tightened against working themselves loose again.