I’ve been testing various ND filters in my studio this week, and I’m excited to share my real-world findings about these essential tools.
If you’ve wondered how photographers capture those dreamy waterfall shots in broad daylight, you’re about to learn my secrets.
Think of ND filters as sunglasses for your lens – they cut down light without affecting color (at least, the good ones do). I’m constantly amazed by how these simple pieces of glass transform my daytime photography.
During my testing, I discovered some crucial differences between premium and budget options. Here’s what I found with each brand:
Tiffen ND Filters ($75-150)
- Crystal clear image quality
- Zero color casting
- Excellent build quality
- My go-to for professional shoots
Hoya ND Filters ($60-120)
- Sharp edge-to-edge clarity
- Minimal light loss at edges
- Reliable threading
- Perfect for landscape work
Budget ND Filters ($4-20)
I also tested some budget options, and here’s the truth: They’ll get you started, but expect some color shifts.
I’ve found these work fine for hobbyists willing to correct color in post. Just avoid the ultra-cheap ones – they’re not worth the hassle.
Also Read: Circular Polarizing Filters – If there’s one thing you Need
Pro Tips From My Testing
- Stack filters to achieve custom densities
- Check for color cast by shooting a white wall
- Clean thoroughly between uses
- Consider a step-up ring system
My Favorite Technique:
For those milky waterfall shots, I use a 6-stop ND filter stacked with a circular polarizer. This combo lets me shoot at f/16 with a 2-second exposure, even in bright sunlight.
Want to start experimenting? I recommend grabbing a mid-range 3-stop ND filter. It’s versatile enough for most situations without breaking the bank.
Remember:
The best ND filter is the one that matches your shooting style. I always carry a 3-stop and 6-stop in my bag – they handle 90% of my needs.
Have you tried long exposure photography? Share your results with me in the comments below!
Watch this informational video about Tiffen VS Hoya variable ND filter below:
Also Read: How to Create an Infinite White Background in 3 Easy Steps
Your Top ND Filter Questions Answered!
After receiving countless questions about ND filters, I’ve compiled my most detailed FAQ yet. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing and using these essential tools.
Which Brands Should I Trust?
I’ve tested dozens of ND filters, and I consistently recommend Tiffen and Hoya for their superior glass quality.
While Singh-Ray produces excellent filters, they’re significantly pricier. I’d avoid variable NDs like the LCW Fader II – they often create unwanted softness in your images.
How Do I Calculate Exposure with ND Filters?
Here’s my tried-and-true method:
- Meter your scene normally (example: f/16, 1/250, ISO 100)
- Determine your desired shutter speed (like 1/30 for slight motion blur)
- Add the appropriate ND filter (3-stop/0.9 ND in this case)
- Adjust settings to maintain exposure
Creative Applications I’ve Tested:
- Beach scenes: Creates dreamy, misty water effects
- Cityscapes: Turns moving traffic into light trails
- Waterfalls: Achieves that silky-smooth water look (try 1/30 or slower)
- Landscapes: Captures cloud movement with 10-stop filters
Budget-Friendly Options?
I’ve discovered HiTech square filters offer excellent value – they’re handholdable and show minimal color cast. Perfect for beginners without breaking the bank.
Single Filter or Step-up Ring?
For multiple lenses (like a 46mm and 52mm setup), I recommend getting a step-up ring. It’s more cost-effective than buying separate filters, though you’ll sacrifice a bit of convenience.
💡 Pro tip: For video work, ND filters are essential for maintaining that cinematic 1/50 shutter speed in bright conditions. I never shoot without one.
