Best ND Filters for Landscape Photography

Several types of ND filters are available, ranging from inexpensive screw-on filters to more advanced rectangular or square filters requiring a filter holder system.

The most popular types of ND filters used in landscape photography are circular screw-on filters, and they come in different levels of light reduction, typically measured in stops. Here are some of the best ND filters for landscape photography.

It is not so confusing to know which is the perfect ND filter. It all depends on your requirment. The products mentioned here are tested by my friends and some YouTubers. You can check the reviews of all products on YouTube.

Types of ND Filters

Before we dive into the best ND filters for landscape photography, let’s discuss the types of ND filters available. There are three types of ND filters: fixed, variable, and graduated ND filters.

Fixed ND Filters – These filters have a fixed amount of light reduction, usually measured in stops. They are available in various strengths, from one-stop to ten-stop filters.

Variable ND Filters – These filters allow you to adjust the amount of light reduction by rotating the filter’s ring. They are convenient to use and provide a range of light reduction, but they can sometimes produce undesirable color casts.

Graduated ND Filters – These filters are partially opaque, with one-half of the filter being darker than the other. They balance the exposure between the bright sky and the darker foreground in landscape photography.

1 K&F Concept 100x100mm Square ND Filter

After checking the K& F Concept 100x100CM Neutral Density Filter, I can confirm that it is an optimal selection for photographers aiming to capture captivating long-exposure photographs effortlessly.

The K& F Concept 100x100CM Neutral Density Filter is an exceptional investment for photographers seeking to experiment with long-exposure photography.

It furnishes outstanding value for money and can assist you in elevating your photography to the succeeding echelon. Despite some minor drawbacks, I would recommend this filter to anyone who is looking for a first-rate ND filter that is user-friendly and produces splendid results.

Features

• This filter is compatible with diverse lens sizes and includes adaptors to accommodate various thread sizes.
• It possesses a neutral density evaluation of ND1000, which means it obstructs ten intervals of light.
• This empowers you to considerably reduce your shutter speed, even amidst bright daylight conditions, and generate remarkable outcomes such as motion blurs in water and clouds.

2 Hoya Pro ND Kit (8/64/1000) 77 mm

The Hoya Pro ND Kit 1000 is a set of neutral-density filters designed for use in photography and videography. These filters are intended to reduce the amount of light that enters the lens, allowing the photographer to use longer exposure times or wider apertures without overexposing the image.

Features

• Contains three filters with different ND ratings (8x, 64x, and 1000x)
• Made with high-quality optical glass for maximum image quality
• Coated with multiple layers of anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare and improve contrast
• Comes with a carrying case for easy storage and transport

However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential compatibility issues and color cast associated with the ND1000 filter, as well as the risk of vignetting at wider focal lengths.

Overall, the Hoya Pro ND Kit 1000 is an excellent set of ND filters for photographers and videographers looking to experiment with longer exposure times or wider apertures. The filters are well-made and produce high-quality images, although they may be expensive for some users.

You can check the price of this product on Amazon. Currently, the product is on HUGE sale.

3 Lee Filters ProGlass 100x100mm IRND

The Lee Filters ProGlass IRND 100mm filter might be worth considering. In this review, we’ll go over the features of this product, as well as the positive and negative aspects of using it. Based on our experience with the product, we’ll also give our recommendation as to whether or not it’s worth buying.

Features

• 100mm size, compatible with a wide range of filter holders
• IRND coating for accurate color reproduction
• 10-stop light reduction for long exposures or shallow depth of field
• Made from high-quality glass for maximum clarity and durability

I strongly recommend the utilization of the Lee Filters ProGlass IRND 100mm filter, for any photographer or videographer seeking a top-quality neutral-density filter.

Although its price may surpass that of other alternatives, the inclusion of the IRND coating and 10-stop light reduction make it a valuable acquisition for those who take their craft seriously.

However, it is important to note that this filter may not be a fitting choice for every form of photography or videography, hence it is crucial to take into account one’s specific requirements before committing to a purchase.

4 Tiffen 77VND 77mm ND Filter

The Tiffen Variable Neutral Density Filter is a popular tool used in photography and videography. This type of filter reduces the amount of light that enters the camera lens, allowing for creative effects such as motion blur or shallow depth of field, even in bright light conditions.

Features

• A variable neutral density filter that ranges from 2-8 stops
• Compatible with 77mm camera lenses
• Made with high-quality optical glass and aluminum ring construction
• Easy to adjust the filter’s strength with a rotating ring
• Comes with a protective case for storage and transport

The Tiffen Variable Neutral Density Filter is a high-quality and versatile tool for photographers and videographers looking to experiment with creative effects in bright light conditions.

The adjustable nature of the filter allows for greater control over the strength of the ND effect, and the high-quality construction ensures that images remain sharp and clear.

However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for color cast or vignetting in certain situations, as well as the price of the filter, which may be prohibitive for some users.

Overall, I would recommend this Tiffen Variable Neutral Density Filter to anyone looking to add creative versatility to their photography or videography kit. Despite its potential drawbacks, the high-quality construction and adjustability of the filter make it a valuable investment for anyone looking to take their work to the next level.

ND filter Buying guide for Landscape

An ND filter serves the purpose of diminishing the light which enters the camera lens, granting one the capacity to capture longer exposures that result in breathtaking outcomes.

Nonetheless, with the numerous options available, determining the appropriate ND filter that satisfies your requirements can be a challenging undertaking. Therefore, I will dissect all that you necessitate before purchasing an ND filter for landscape photography.

1 The Selection of Suitable Density

The choice of an ND filter for landscape photography hinges on the quantity of light you intend to photograph and the effect you desire to achieve. In situations with bright daylight conditions, an ND1000 or ND2000 filter might be necessary.

These filters can obstruct up to 7 or 11 stops of light, respectively. As such, they are the perfect selection for capturing long exposures of waterfalls, seascapes, and other outdoor settings.

However, if you are taking photos during the golden hour or in low light circumstances, an ND filter of lower density such as an ND4 or ND8 that obstructs two or three stops of light might be adequate. Such filters can facilitate achieving a shallow depth of field or capturing the motion blur of moving subjects.

2 Additional Factors to Consider

When selecting an ND filter, you must contemplate the quality of the filter glass. High-quality optical glass is capable of producing sharper, clearer images with minimal distortion or color cast. Additionally, the filter you choose must be compatible with your lens size and thread size.

ND filters are indispensable tools for landscape photographers who aspire to capture stunning images regardless of the lighting conditions.

By understanding the various types of ND filters available and choosing the suitable density and type for your requirements, you can elevate your photography skills to the next level.

Conduct research and choose a high-quality filter from a reputable brand to ensure that you achieve optimal results. With this guide on purchasing ND filters, you will be able to select the perfect filter that caters to your landscape photography needs.