If you are a beginner photographer shooting in daylight with overexposure. and one of your friends suggests you use an ND filter.
In this situation, you may have two questions on your head WHAT IS AN ND FILTER? & Why should I use an ND filter?
So, we are going to answer both of your questions right now. first of all
What is an ND filter?
ND filter – Natural density filter.
ND filter reduces the light that entering to the camera sensor. It’s a darkened glass that fits your lens front. Like we use sunglass to see more clearly in sunlight.
Why should you use an ND filter?
You need more blurry effect & your already on aperture 1.4 with a maximum shutter speed like 1/1400, 1/8000 if still, the object seems like overexposed, in that kind of situation an ND filter can save your day.
Ok, now we are aware of why should we use the ND filter and what is an ND filter. now, there few things to keep in mind while buying a ND filter.
There are so many companies that are selling the ND filters. But sadly, some of them are making duplicate filters which are normal black colored glass. But don’t worry we are giving you some the best and genuine list you can buy.
There are two types of filters available one is circular type filter and another is square type filter.
KODAK pro series 77mm
Kodak pro gives you the freedom of choosing from ND 2 to ND 2000. It’s an adjustable filter that means you have to carry only one filter and it can be adjustable to different conditions. With 16 layers of anti-reflective coating, it gives you the sharpest images under different light conditions.it available in every size.
Pros
- 16 layer multi coating
- 16 layer anti reflective coating
- best for professional photographer
Cons
- none
LEE 1.8 neutral density filter
LEE filter is a square it fits with many DSLR camera lenses. It attaches through the help of a filter holder. Lee is a British company. 100x100mm Neutral density filter Reduces the light from entering your lens by six stops. Ideal for low-light conditions. it gives u high quality & it was famous for his hand made. 10 stop rating. It is best for professionals.
Pros
- excellent quality
- part of the lee filter system 16 layer multi coating
- 16 layer anti reflective coating
- best for professional photographer
Cons
- holder and accessories are pricey
NiSi ND1000 58mm neutral density filter
Nisi filter is 7.62 x 2.54 x 7.62 cm & 22.68 Grams
This Nisi Nano IR filter is best for landscape photography.
It was made with optical glass with nano coating to prevent losing any single bit of detail. 10 stops decrease the light.
neutral density 3.0 (exposure adjustment = 10 stops, transmits 0.1 percent of light)
The filter surface is a smooth finish. Matte black superfine frosted frame.
Pros
- All models available
- 10 stops reduction the light that entering through the lens
- Ultra-thin frame
Cons
- Made in china
Hoya 67mm Neutral Density filter(8stop)
This hoya 67 mm filter is a multicoated neutral density filter. The filter decreases the amount of light that enters the sensor. Also, it decreases flare & ghosting. It will give you a sharp contrast & well-balanced color. It can reduce 3 stop light.
Pros
- ND8 it reduces 3 stop light
- It is 1x1x1 cm & 59 grams
- To allow video cameras (which have fixed shutter speeds) to film subjects such as snow, sand or other bright scenes which would normally cause overexposure.
Cons
- None
B+W 72mm(3stop)neutral density filter
This B+W neutral density genuine 72mm filter is 9.53 x 9.53 x 1.91 cm & 68.04 Grams. it is a solid neutral density filter it reduces 10 stop light through into the camera sensor. The anti-reflection coating surface is protective. B+w filter glass made with high-quality Schott glass for increase optical clarity & color fidelity.
Pros
- Brass filter ring
- The 3.0 density can create a darkening of the entire image.
- This is an imported product.
- High quality
Cons
- None
Tiffen 77mm ND filter
Tiffen is 10.8 x 9 x 1.6 cm & 82 grams . this is good for professional photographers & videographers. This filter reduces the light that enters the camera sensor doesn’t affect picture clarity.
Pros
- Control depth of field
- all size available
Cons
- highly expensive
Marumi 77mm ND filter (10stop)
Marumi super filter is a 10.16 x 10.16 x 1.91 cm; & 80 Grams. It is a Super DHG ND1000 Neutral Density filter, with an exposure factor of 10 F Stops. Metal, double threaded frame to allow additional filters or hoods. & Low Reflection Coating -to avoid ghosting & flare. Blackened Outer Rim of the Glass -to prevent internal reflections Satin Finish -to prevent internal reflections
Pros
- Good standard of construction
- Wide range of sizes
- Can produce good image
Cons
- No square filter option available
There is another type of filter that used in DSLR called as UV filter to know about more please click on this UV FILTER.
