Neutral Density Filters

Neutral Density Filters

Use a ND filter, aka "Neutral Density" if you are trying to slow down your shutter speed on your DSLR camera. They can be Full ND, Graduated ND (GND), Hard or Soft and Reverse. Confused?

Hoya, Cokin, and Kenko are three popular brands that produce neutral density filters for photography. Neutral density (ND) filters are a type of camera filter that reduces the amount of light entering the lens without affecting the color or contrast of the image. ND filters are commonly used in photography to achieve specific effects such as longer exposure times, wider apertures, and shallower depth of field.

Hoya, Cokin, and Kenko are all well-regarded brands in the photography industry, and each has its own unique characteristics.

Hoya ND filters are known for their high-quality glass and multi-coating, which reduces glare and reflections. Hoya also produces ND filters with variable densities, allowing photographers to adjust the strength of the filter to suit their needs.

Cokin ND filters are popular because they are easy to use and highly customizable. Cokin produces a range of square and rectangular filters that can be easily stacked to achieve the desired effect. This makes Cokin filters a popular choice for landscape and outdoor photographers who need to quickly adjust their filters in changing lighting conditions.

Kenko ND filters are known for their affordability and reliability. Kenko produces a range of circular and square filters, including variable ND filters, that offer good value for money without compromising on quality.

In terms of their uses, ND filters are primarily used to achieve longer exposure times, especially in bright daylight conditions. For example, if you want to create a long exposure image of a waterfall during the day, you would need to use an ND filter to reduce the amount of light entering the lens, which in turn allows you to use a slower shutter speed without overexposing the image.

ND filters can also be used to achieve a shallower depth of field in bright light conditions. By using a wider aperture, you can achieve a shallower depth of field, which can help to isolate your subject and create a more visually striking image. However, in bright light conditions, this can be challenging because the wider aperture allows more light to enter the lens, which can cause overexposure. An ND filter can be used to reduce the amount of light entering the lens, allowing you to use a wider aperture without overexposing the image.

Overall, Hoya, Cokin, and Kenko ND filters are all excellent choices for photographers looking to add ND filters to their kit. The best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, as well as your budget.