Neutral density (or ND) filters produce a grey neutral tone and are used in photography to reduce light, enabling more control over exposure and depth of field without affecting color contrast. ND’s are also available in graduated filters, both in hard and soft edge. These filters are clear in the bottom half of the filter with a gradual transition to the ND effect in the top half. They are primarily used for light reduction in skylines of landscape shots. Graduated ND’s are available in Soft Edge or Hard Edge varieties. Soft edge grads have a smooth transition from clear to ND. Hard edge grads have a more defined hard lined transition and are usually used for longer focal lengths. ND Grads are made in different densities according to the level of light reduction from 1/3 to as much as 4 stops of light. This 67mm Soft Edge filter is usable with Formatt-Hitech 67mm holder systems or any 67mm (2.67″/P Size) holder. The filter is 67mm wide but 80mm (3.15″) long so that it can be moved up and down in the holder to line up the graduation line easily with the horizon. The filter is also available in 85mm, 100mm, 150mm and 165mm sizes. Formatt-Hitech filters are made from the highest quality 1.5mm optical resin.
Soft Edge graduated filters transition across the filter toward the center, and although there is a horizon line, it is subtle. This allows for horizon transitions to be more easily hidden in a scene, especially with an undulating horizon line such as mountains, buildings or trees. Graduated filters have an effect that occurs on one area of the filter and transitions to clear on other areas of the filter. Typically graduated filters are used to enhance the sky or terrain, or balance the luminosity of the sky to the luminosity of the terrain. For hard and soft grad filters, colors are often deployed (such as sunset or twilight) to enhance the color of the sky.
Roughly speaking soft edge grad filters are for wide angle lenses and hard edge filters are for longer lenses. This gives the most visually attractive effect transition at the horizon line. The Soft Edge grad is the ideal tool for balancing bright sky to a dark terrain where the horizon is uneven. Soft Edge grads are an essential tool for both fine art photographers and professional cinematographers alike.
- 67mm is a popular size for smaller consumer DSLR lenses and mirrorless cameras.
- Fits the Formatt-Hitech 67mm holder system, so a single filter is usable on multiple lenses.
- Made from the highest quality optical resin available, with an index of refraction nearly identical to the finest optical glass.
- High scratch resistance, low material fatigue, and chamfered corners to resist breakage so the filter will provide years of service.
- Made in the UK using the world’s most advanced, computer-controlled filter manufacturing technologies.