The Tiffen Variable ND Filter (95mm, 2 to 8-Stop) offers a unique way to maintain control over your depth of field and provides an efficient method for creating special effects. Designed with a built-in rotating ring that controls neutral density from 2 to 8 stops (0.6–2.4), it allows heavier density for a slower shutter speed. The longer exposure lets the shutter remain open long enough to record the same amount of light, while also creating movement within the shot. It eliminates the need to buy and carry individual neutral density filters. With this single filter, you can rotate to the level of ND you want, saving both money and time.
How It Works
Simply mount the filter on your lens, set it to "Min" density, then frame and focus. Care must be taken when focusing at heavier densities to ensure focus is accurate. If it is not, you can switch to manual focus and rotate to the desired degree of filtration.
Exposure Example
For example, if your standard exposure without the filter is 1/500 at f/8 and you then set the filter to "Min", you change the shutter speed to 1/125 at the same aperture, thereby losing 2 stops of speed while gaining a hint of blur in the image. If that is not enough filtration, continue rotating the filter until you reach the shutter speed you want. Using the above example, you can reduce the shutter speed to 1/2 second at f/8 (8 stops). It should be noted that the calibration marks on the filter ring are intended only for reference and should not be considered accurate settings for specific densities.
Creative Applications
Neutral density filters are used to create unusual special effects, including capturing the blur of rippling water in a waterfall or the swirling effect of city traffic. Since it allows the use of slower shutter speeds in bright light, it becomes possible to create special effects that would normally not be achievable without the filter. Because it can also help control your depth of field, it allows you to shoot at wider apertures. Ultimately, its value lies in helping prevent bright, overly washed-out images captured in strong light.
ColorCore Technology
The ColorCore process allows Tiffen to control the color and density of its filters, as well as the characteristics of special effects filters, with greater accuracy than typical dyed-in-the-mass filters, which often display color and density variations. In this way, Tiffen can better control the various densities of its filters and create more precise degrees of filtration.
