Cokin Filters/Still in business?

[Redfox]

I'm currently looking at purchasing a new filter system for my new canon 17-40m F4L lens on my 5D Mk3. I was researching Cokin filters as I have previously purchased the P series holder and a couple of filters for my older 350D camera. I was looking up the z-pro system when I found out cokin may have gone out of business or was taken over in 2011 resulting in possible future supply issues.

I have looked through these forums for info but I'm not sure of the changes in the company and was wondering if anyone can shed light on the cokin situation for me, I would rather not buy from a company that may go out of business. Also what do you think of the cokin filter system or should I look at others?

[Paul G]

Nearly all retailers I know of still have Cokin products in stock.

Maybe a call or email to the Aussie distributors Maxwell would give a quick answer.

http://maxwell.com.au/support/general.html

[Redfox]

Thanks for the link Paul, I had a look at my local store tonight (online) and they did have some stuff but were also out of stock of a fair bit of cokin gear so it got me thinking (after reading what i've seen on the net) and that's what got me asking here on the forum :-) Still not decided on Cokin or other filters yet but after reading up further I realize the Cokin holder will also take other brand filters so maybe this is a non issue now

Thanks

[ricktas]

have a look at www.vanbar.com.au

i think you will find most stores will be 'out of stock' on many filters due to there being so many. Cokin makes hundreds of different ones. Stores will generally only stock the ones that move reasonably quickly, and order in any of the others, as needed. It just means they do not have $ held up on stock that may sit in their inventory for a year or two.

[Cage]

I've just bought the P wide angle holder from this mob.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Cokin-Z-Pro-100mm-Lens-Modular-Filter-Holder-BZ-100-Fits-Kood-Lee-Hitech-/130642558734?pt=UK_Photography_Adapter_Rings&hash=item1e6ae73f0e

And they do have the Z-Pro holder in stock as per above link.

[Redfox]

Thanks for the feedback everyone, I have had a look at links provided and considering my purchase :-)

[Rattus79]

my 2c

Cokin filters are great so long as you don't want to stack them.
As soon as you look to stack 2 or more of them they have a tendancy to give a magenta cast to your images.

They do give a cheaper entry to the market then say Lee or Hitech, but in 6-12 months if you get serious about shooting landscapes, you will be looking to upgrade your filters anyway. If you're not careful you could find your self in the same boat with me. (wife won't let me get any more and would have a heart attack at the price of the lee's)