No Products in the Cart
Neutral density filters are available in a range of densities, graduations, shapes, and sizes. Typically, these filters are single plates of glass, either square or circular, designed to decrease the light reaching the camera sensor by a predetermined amount, such as 3 stops (ND8), 6 stops (ND64), 10 stops (ND1000), or 15 stops (ND32000). This reduction in light enables precise control over exposures in bright conditions, facilitates creative experimentation with longer shutter speeds for capturing motion, and offers control over apertures, shutter speeds, and frame rates in video production.
Variable neutral density filters differ in design from their fixed counterparts by allowing users to adjust the density level by rotating the front element of the circular filter. Unlike single plate filters, variable ND filters consist of two polarizing glass elements, with the rear element fixed and the front element rotatable. Rotating the front element changes the alignment between the two elements, thereby controlling the amount of light entering the camera. The NiSI VARIO Pro Nano range of variable ND filters provides a smooth transition from 1.5 to 5 stops of light reduction across circular filter thread sizes from 40.5mm to 95mm.
Variable ND filters are favored in the video production industry for their ability to swiftly adjust aperture, shutter speed, and frame rates through filter rotation, eliminating the need to interchange fixed circular ND filters. The high-quality construction and smooth transition of NiSi VARIO Pro Nano filters help minimize vibration or camera shake during density adjustments. Furthermore, the design of separate front and rear glass elements ensures no visible "x-effect" or color cast throughout the filter's density range.
For still photographers seeking convenience, a single circular variable ND filter can save space and weight in their camera kit, particularly if a maximum density of 5 stops suffices. However, for those requiring greater density, a range of fixed circular ND filters is available. Additionally, for photographers needing the ability to stack filters, square ND filters in various sizes from the NiSi product line may be a more suitable choice.
Single filter for multiple densities – Having a single filter that can be rotated to vary the amount of light can be very convenient and save space in your camera bag.
Potential cost savings by purchasing a single filter – High-quality variable ND filters tend to be more expensive than fixed density filters of the same size. If you calculate the cost of purchasing a range of filters in different densities available on a single variable ND filter, the cost can add up quite quickly. A single filter may save you money if you intend to use it long term.
Reduced vignetting when using a single circular filter – stacking circular neutral density filters together is not recommended due to vignetting. By using a single variable neutral density filter you eliminate the need to use multiple filters to achieve the same maximum density.
Good for video – By having a quality variable ND, you can reduce the need to swap out ND filters when needing to control aperture, shutter speed and frame rate while shooting video. A high-quality variable ND filter will have a smooth rotation while changing densities, which can help to decrease and vibration introduced through the lens.
Image quality issues and “x-effect” with cheaper filters – Not all neutral density filters are created equal. With many cheaper variable ND filters on the market you tend to find issues caused through lower quality glass or resin, and also will quite often notice the “x-effect” or “Maltese cross” caused by filters with too much of a variation in density range (eg 2 – 10 stops). Due to the way the different elements of variable ND filters line up to produce the desired density, banding and uneven exposure throughout different areas of an image can also be noticed with many cheaper filters on the market.
Cannot stack graduated ND filters – Circular ND filters quite often create a vignette effect when being stacked with other filters. It is not recommended to use graduated ND filters in either round or square variations in combination with variable neutral density filters.
One size does not fit all lenses – if you have a variety of lenses, circular ND filters will need to be purchased for each lens. Due to the way variable ND filters alter the density of light through the variation of alignment of the different glass elements and allow it to be transmitted through to the camera sensor, using adaptors to step down variable ND filters is not recommended. You are best using high-quality variable ND filters that match the size of your specific lens threads for the best result.
Any questions about filters, contact our very knowledgeable staff at sales@cameraelectronic.com.au
To check all NiSi range of filters, please click here.
Text Provided by NiSi Australia
