GEAR | ND F I LTERS
RIGHT The Rhodium Full Spectrum ND filters use a high-tech approach for amazing results
SCHNEIDER- KREUZNACH
The Schneider-Kreuznach Rhodium Full Spectrum Neutral Density (FSND) filters feature an extremely thin neutral density layer between two layers of crystal-clear glass, manufactured to the finest flatness/parallelism specifications. The result is images that are free of distortion or anomalies, with resolution of the finest details. By encapsulating the interlayer between glass, rather than on the surface, Rhodiums are better protected from abrasions and the other rigours of production. “Major advancements in 4K, 6K and 8K digital camera sensors have resulted in fewer infrared (IR) leakage problems compared to earlier digital products. However, these imaging sensors can still suffer IR leakage in the far-red visible spectrum, as well as the near IR,” explains Piet Thiele, head of business unit photo/cine at Schneider-Kreuznach. However, the company’s Rhodium Full Spectrum ND filters aim to reduce the amount of light across all the spectrums, so there is no colour cast in images, from the lowest density (one stop) to the highest (ten stops). “In the lab, Rhodiums are the first filters to undergo tristimulus scanning – a more critical colour measurement than previous methods for measuring filter quality. This verifies neutrality by using a colorimetric algorithm that compares samples to perfectly neutral light. The result is unprecedented accuracy,” says Thiele.
TIFFEN Tiffen has provided breakthrough filter technology since 1938 and is one of the best in the game. Since the advent of digital sensors for video capture, Tiffen’s Natural ND filters (named after founder Nat Tiffen) have been addressing common issues DOPs face with ND filters, such as colour shift, IR contamination, full spectrum light coverage, longevity and durability. Tiffen content creator, Justin Hartney, explains: “Natural NDs maintain neutral colours, even at higher stops, so images you create match what you see with your eyes. Lots of NDs shift images by adding green, grey or blue tints, but these allow you to capture exactly what is in front of the camera.” Today’s ultra-sensitive digital sensors are calibrated to capture a full spectrum of light, including a balance of IR and UV light that gives rich red tones and a balanced image. But if you couple that with older ND filter technology, you can end up with unwanted colour shifts. “By blocking light in a full spectrummanner, blocking IR, UV and visible light evenly, the Natural ND filters maintain a harmony that creates a full and beautiful image,” says Hartney. “IR contamination is caused by an imbalance between
visible light blockage and IR light, common with older ND technology. This is avoided by using Natural NDs, which have a unique, dual-layer system for reflecting IR light, while absorbing visible and UV light.” The Natural ND filters also use Tiffen’s award-winning ColorCore technology, laminating the filter effect between two pieces of water white glass, so the effect won’t scratch off or fade over time. “Our Natural NDs have helped the images of ASC Director of Photographers, drone operators and photographers, so it’s no surprise the filters have won an award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences,” concludes Hartney.
20 DEF I N I T ION | APR I L 202 1
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