ND filter for long exposure landscape photography

ND filters in landscape photography: your path to perfect shots

Landscape photography can be incredibly fascinating and rewarding. It allows you to capture nature in all its beauty and diversity. However, sometimes you come up against technical limitations, especially when it comes to light conditions. This is where the ND filter comes into play – an essential tool for many landscape photographers. In this blog, you will learn everything about how to use ND filters in landscape photography, how they work, and how you can best use them in the Swiss landscape.

What is an ND filter?

Introduction to the ND filter

The term “ND” stands for “Neutral Density”. An ND filter is a filter that is placed in front of your camera lens to reduce the amount of incoming light. It darkens the image without changing the colors or contrast. This allows you to work with longer exposure times even in bright light conditions without your image being overexposed.

Why use an ND filter?

In landscape photography, you will often encounter scenes with plenty of light, whether it's the glaring sun over the Alps or the reflection on the surface of a mountain lake. Without an ND filter, you may struggle to work with longer exposure times in these situations, as your images would quickly be overexposed. The ND filter solves this issue and opens up a world of creative possibilities.

Types of ND filters

Different strengths

ND filters are available in different strengths, which are usually indicated in so-called “stops”. An ND filter with one stop reduces the incoming light by half, while an ND filter with two stops reduces the light by 75%, and so on. The most common filter strengths are ND8 (3 stops), ND64 (6 stops) and ND1000 (10 stops). Each of these strengths has its own specific uses, depending on the effects you want to achieve.

ND8 (3 stops): Well suited for slight reductions in light when you want to extend the exposure time a little without drastically changing the scene. -

ND64 (6 stops): This filter is ideal if you want to blur water, for example, a waterfall or a river.

ND1000 (10 stops): A strong ND filter that allows you to take extremely long exposures even in broad daylight to create stunning effects.

Variable ND filters vs. fixed ND filters

There are two main types of ND filters: fixed and variable. A fixed ND filter has a constant density, while a variable ND filter allows you to adjust the strength of the filter by turning the filter ring. Both types have their pros and cons.

Fixed ND filters: These filters offer better image quality because they have no moving parts and there is no risk of vignetting. However, they are less flexible because you need different filters for different lighting conditions.

Variable ND filters: These offer more flexibility because you can adjust the strength as needed. However, image errors or vignetting can occur at very strong settings.

Types of ND filters

A) Round screw-in ND filters

These are screwed directly onto the lens. They come in different diameters.

Advantages

Easy to use
Compact and lightweight
Inexpensive

Disadvantages

Only suitable for lenses with the same diameter
Multiple filters required for different lenses

You can find screw-in filters of all types here in our shop.

ND Filter 3 apertures from Haida

ND filter grey filter 3 f-stops from Haida The Haida Slim grey filter ND 0.9 is one of the fainter grey filters and fits lenses with a filter thread. It has a uniform grey (neutral) colour and reduces the amount of light entering the lens. The resulting 8-fold increase in exposure time enables a lower f-number for video filming and photography.

From CHF 38.00*

Details

ND Filter 4 apertures from Haida

ND filter grey filter 4 f-stops from Haida The Haida Slim grey filter ND 1.2 is one of the heavier grey filters and fits lenses with a filter thread. It has a uniform grey (neutral) colour and reduces the amount of light entering the lens. The resulting 16-fold increase in exposure time enables a lower f-number for video filming and photography.

From CHF 25.00*

Details

ND Filter 6 apertures from Haida

ND filter grey filter 6 f-stops from Haida The Haida Slim grey filter ND 1.8 is a medium-strength grey filter which is often referred to as a Little Stopper. It fits lenses with a filter thread. It is uniformly coloured grey (neutral) and reduces the amount of light entering the lens. The resulting 64-fold increase in exposure time enables a lower f-number when taking photos.

From CHF 37.00*

Details

ND Filter 10 apertures from Haida

ND filter 10 f-stops from Haida The Haida Slim grey filter ND 3.0 is a thicker grey filter, the "always-with-you filter", so to speak, which is often called the Big Stopper and is indispensable in landscape photography. It fits lenses with a filter thread. It is uniformly coloured grey (neutral) and reduces the amount of light entering the lens. The resulting increase in exposure time by a factor of 1000 enables a slower shutter speed when taking photographs.

From CHF 38.00*

Details

ND Filter Grey Filter 12 apertures from Haida

ND Filter 12 apertures from Haida

ND filter 12 apertures with filter thread from Haida The Haida Slim grey filter ND 3.6 is a thicker grey filter, which is often referred to as an extreme ND filter and is frequently used in landscape photography. It fits lenses with a filter thread. It is uniformly grey (neutral) in colour and reduces the amount of light entering the lens. The resulting reduction in exposure time by a factor of 4000 enables a slower shutter speed when taking photos.

From CHF 25.00* CHF 29.00* (13.79% saved)

Details

Solar screw filter from Haida

Haida Solar screw-in filter with 20 f-stops The Haida Solar filter with a neutral density of 6.0 produces images with a neutral color tone and without color cast or loss of sharpness. The 20-stage exposure reduction, the built-in infrared blocking and the density of 6.0 block invisible radiation. This lies outside the visual spectrum that can be captured by the image sensors. This can affect the capture of clear images.

From CHF 53.00*

Details

B) Rectangular ND filters with filter holder

These filters are inserted into a filter holder that is attached to the lens.

Advantages:

One filter for different lenses
Can be combined with other filters

Disadvantages:

More expensive
Larger when transported

Haida M10-II 100 mm Filterholder Haida M15 150 mm Filterholder

Only 2 available

ND filter plug-in filter ND 0.9 100 mm Haida

ND filter plug-in filter ND 0.9 100 mm from Haida The rectangular Haida Gray Filter ND0.9 provides shutter speed extension during exposure in a shot by reducing the amount of incoming light on the sensor. The Neutral Density 0.9 filter is rather weak and is particularly suitable for low-light shooting or videographers. A three-stop latitude allows photographers and videographers to work with a more open aperture in the midday sun. The ND 0.9 gray filter is particularly suitable for:Long exposures in low light when you don't want to extend the shutter speed too long. For example, for sunrises and sunsets or cloudy skies. Videographers are just as enthusiastic as photographers about the ND0.9 and use it for lower apertures in sunlight. With an ND0.9 you can achieve the following shutter speeds: At 1/2000sec, the shutter speed increases to 1/250sec.At 1/500sec the shutter speed increases to 1/60secAt 1/125sec, the shutter speed increases to 1/15sec. Multi-coated optical glass reduces reflectionsThe Haida gray filter is made of glass that is ground and polished on both sides for durability and the highest optical quality. The two-millimeter-thin glass filter is free of color casts and offers high resolution. Its special multi-coating reduces the occurrence of reflections and makes the filter insensitive to scratches. Easy to mount with separately available adapter rings and filter holder.For mounting, screw the matching adapter ring from the Haida M10 filter system onto the lens and attach the filter holder to it. In this way, the graduated filter can be easily used with lenses from a focal length of approximately 16 millimeters on a full-frame camera (APS-C from approximately 11 millimeters).Up to three slots in the holder accommodate the desired creative filters. When inserting the ND filter, please make sure that the gray filter covers the lens properly so that no light enters sideways. Metal box for safe storage and transportationThe filter comes with a metal box. This is perfect for transporting or storing the filter well protected. All advantages at a glance: Ideal for landscape photographyHigh-quality optical glass with nano coatingFor more open apertures in daylightAbsolute color neutralityEasy insertion instead of screwing (adjust image detail and insert filter directly)Scratch-resistant multi-coating suppresses reflectionsRed Diamond version, significantly increased break resistanceRounded R5 edges for easier mountingPart of a complete filter system with optionally available adapter rings and filter holder Technical details: Material: glass, multi-coated, scratch resistant, splash water protectedCoating: Nano Pro coatedPower: 0.9 (3 stops)Dimensions (W x L x H): 100 x 100 x 2 mmWeight: 65 g Scope of delivery: 1 x Haida Gray Filter ND 0.9 100 x 100 mm1 x transport box Gray filter calculationThe aperture reduction of ND filters is calculated as follows:The density of ND filters is usually given in steps of 0.3.To obtain the aperture reduction, first multiply the value by 10 and then divide by 3. 0.3 x 10 = 3 | 3 = 1 f-stop0.9 x 10 = 9 | 3 = 3 f-stops0.6 x 10 = 6 | 3 = 2 f-stops1.2 x 10 = 12 | 3 = 4 f-stops1.8 x 10 = 18 | 3 = 6 f-stops3.0 x 10 = 30 | 3 = 10 f-stops3.6 x 10 = 36 | 3 = 12 f-stops4.5 x 10 = 45 | 3 = 15 f-stops

CHF 138.00*

ND filter plug-in filter ND 1.2 100 mm Haida

ND filter plug-in filter ND 1.2 100 mm Haida The Haida rectangular ND1.2 gray filter provides shutter speed extension during exposure in a shot by reducing the amount of incoming light on the sensor. The Neutral Density 1.2 filter is rather weak and is particularly suitable for low-light shooting or videographers. A margin of 4 stops allows photographers and filmmakers to work with a more open aperture in the midday sun. The ND1.2 gray filter is especially suitable for:Perfect for long exposures on sunrises and sunsets or cloudy skies. Videographers are just as enthusiastic as photographers about the ND1.2 and use it for lower apertures in sunlight. With an ND1.2 you can achieve the following shutter speeds: At 1/2000sec, the shutter speed increases to 1/125sec.At 1/500sec the shutter speed increases to 1/30secAt 1/125sec the shutter speed increases to 1/8sec Multi-coated optical glass reduces reflectionsThe Haida gray filter is made of glass that is ground and polished on both sides for durability and the highest optical quality. The two-millimeter-thin glass filter is free of color casts and offers high resolution. Its special multi-coating reduces the occurrence of reflections and makes the filter insensitive to scratches. Easy to mount with separately available adapter rings and filter holder.For mounting, screw the matching adapter ring from the Haida M10 filter system onto the lens and attach the filter holder to it. In this way, the graduated filter can be easily used with lenses from a focal length of approximately 16 millimeters on a full-frame camera (APS-C from approximately 11 millimeters).Up to three slots in the holder accommodate the desired creative filters. When inserting the ND filter, please make sure that the gray filter covers the lens properly so that no light enters sideways. Metal box for safe storage and transportationThe filter comes with a metal box. This is perfect for transporting or storing the filter well protected. All advantages at a glance: Ideal for landscape photographyHigh-quality optical glass with nano coatingFor more open apertures in daylightAbsolute color neutralityEasy insertion instead of screwing (adjust image detail and insert filter directly)Scratch-resistant multi-coating suppresses reflectionsRed Diamond version, significantly increased break resistanceRounded R5 edges for easier mountingPart of a complete filter system with optionally available adapter rings and filter holder Technical details: Material: glass, multi-coated, scratch resistant, splash water protectedCoating: Nano Pro coatedStrength: ND1.2 (4 stops)Dimensions (W x L x H): 100 x 100 x 2 mmWeight: 65 g Scope of delivery: 1 x Haida Gray Filter ND1.2 100 x 100 mm1 x transport box Gray filter calculationThe aperture reduction of ND filters is calculated as follows:The density of ND filters is usually given in steps of 0.3.To obtain the aperture reduction, first multiply the value by 10 and then divide by 3. 0.3 x 10 = 3 | 3 = 1 f-stop0.9 x 10 = 9 | 3 = 3 f-stops0.6 x 10 = 6 | 3 = 2 f-stops1.2 x 10 = 12 | 3 = 4 f-stops1.8 x 10 = 18 | 3 = 6 f-stops3.0 x 10 = 30 | 3 = 10 f-stops3.6 x 10 = 36 | 3 = 12 f-stops4.5 x 10 = 45 | 3 = 15 f-stops

CHF 69.00* CHF 148.00* (53.38% saved)

Only 3 available

ND Filter Steckfilter ND 1.8 100 mm Haida

ND filter plug-in filter ND 1.8 100 mm Haida

ND filter plug-in filter ND 1.8 100 mm Haida Little Stopper Gray Filters ND1.8 are perfect for long exposures during sunsets. The Haida rectangular ND1.8 gray filter provides shutter speed extension during exposure in a shot by reducing the amount of incoming light on the sensor. The Neutral Density 1.8 filter is a medium-strength gray filter - which is also called a Little Stopper - and is particularly suitable for long exposures of water, sunrises or sunsets. It is also interesting for videographers who want to film with very low apertures. A 6-stop latitude makes the surface look smooth and sleek in long exposures of water. For filmmakers, it allows working with very low f-stops in the midday sun. The ND1.8 gray filter is especially suitable for:Perfect for long exposures of water such as rivers, lakes, ocean, streams or other moving subjects.Videographers allows to work with very low apertures. For example, with apertures around F1.4.When flashing against the sun, for example in portrait photography, the ND filter allows you to extend the camera shutter speed into the range of the flash sync speed. With an ND1.8 you can achieve the following shutter speeds: At 1/2000sec, the shutter speed is extended to 1/30sec.At 1/500sec the shutter speed increases to 1/8secAt 1/125sec, the shutter speed increases to 1/2sec. Multi-coated optical glass reduces reflectionsThe Haida gray filter is made of glass that is ground and polished on both sides for durability and the highest optical quality. The two-millimeter-thin glass filter is free of color casts and offers high resolution. Its special multi-coating reduces the occurrence of reflections and makes the filter insensitive to scratches. Easy to mount with separately available adapter rings and filter holder.For mounting, screw the matching adapter ring from the Haida M10 filter system onto the lens and attach the filter holder to it. In this way, the graduated filter can be easily used with lenses from a focal length of approximately 16 millimeters on a full-frame camera (APS-C from approximately 11 millimeters).Up to three slots in the holder accommodate the desired creative filters. When inserting the ND filter, please make sure that the gray filter covers the lens properly so that no light enters sideways. Metal box for safe storage and transportationThe filter comes with a metal box. This is perfect for transporting or storing the filter well protected. All advantages at a glance: Ideal for landscape photographyHigh-quality optical glass with nano coatingFor more open apertures in daylightAbsolute color neutralityEasy insertion instead of screwing (adjust image detail and insert filter directly)Scratch-resistant multi-coating suppresses reflectionsRed Diamond version, significantly increased break resistanceRounded R5 edges for easier mountingPart of a complete filter system with optionally available adapter rings and filter holder Technical details: Material: glass, multi-coated, scratch resistant, splash water protectedCoating: Nano Pro coatedStrength: ND1.8 (6 stops)Dimensions (W x L x H): 100 x 100 x 2 mmWeight: 65 g Scope of delivery: 1 x Haida Gray Filter ND1.8 100 x 100 mm1 x transport box Gray filter calculation The aperture reduction of ND filters is calculated as follows:The density of ND filters is usually given in steps of 0.3.To obtain the aperture reduction, first multiply the value by 10 and then divide by 3. 0.3 x 10 = 3 | 3 = 1 f-stop0.9 x 10 = 9 | 3 = 3 f-stops0.6 x 10 = 6 | 3 = 2 f-stops1.2 x 10 = 12 | 3 = 4 f-stops1.8 x 10 = 18 | 3 = 6 f-stops3.0 x 10 = 30 | 3 = 10 f-stops3.6 x 10 = 36 | 3 = 12 f-stops4.5 x 10 = 45 | 3 = 15 f-stops

CHF 139.00*

Only 3 available

ND Filter plug-in filter ND 3.0 100 mm Haida

ND Filter plug-in filter ND 3.0 100 mm Haida The rectangular Haida Gray Filter ND3.0 provides shutter speed extension during exposure in a shot by reducing the amount of incoming light on the sensor. The Neutral Density Filter 3.0 filter is a stronger gray filter - which is also called a Big Stopper - and is particularly suitable for long exposures of water in sunlight or for architectural photographers. A latitude of 10 stops makes the surface look smooth and flowing when taking long exposures of water. Architectural photographers use the ND filter for extended long exposures that make moving people, animals or cars in front of buildings, landmarks or in busy squares disappear from the picture. The ND3.0 gray filter is especially suitable for:Perfect for long exposures of water such as rivers, lakes, sea, streams, etc.Architectural photographers often use long time exposure to photograph places deserted, for example. With an ND3.0, you can achieve the following shutter speeds: At 1/2000sec, the shutter speed increases to 1/2sec.At 1/500sec, the shutter speed increases to 2sec.At 1/125sec, the shutter speed increases to 8sec. Multi-coated optical glass reduces reflectionsThe Haida gray filter is made of double-sided ground and polished glass, which stands for durability and highest optical quality. The two-millimeter-thin glass filter is free of color casts and offers high resolution. Its special multi-coating reduces the occurrence of reflections and makes the filter insensitive to scratches. Easy to mount with separately available adapter rings and filter holder.For mounting, screw the matching adapter ring from the Haida M10 filter system onto the lens and attach the filter holder to it. In this way, the graduated filter can be easily used with lenses from a focal length of approximately 16 millimeters on a full-frame camera (APS-C from approximately 11 millimeters).Up to three slots in the holder accommodate the desired creative filters. When inserting the ND filter, please make sure that the gray filter covers the lens properly so that no light enters sideways. Metal box for safe storage and transportationThe filter comes with a metal box. This is perfect for transporting or storing the filter well protected. All advantages at a glance: Ideal for landscape photographyHigh-quality optical glass with nano coatingAbsolute color neutralityEasy insertion instead of screws (adjust the image section and insert the filter directly)Scratch-resistant multi-coating suppresses reflectionsRed Diamond version, break resistance significantly increasedRounded R5 edges for easier mountingPart of a complete filter system with optionally available adapter rings and filter holder Technical details: Material: glass, multi-coated, scratch resistant, splash water protectedCoating: Nano Pro coatedStrength: ND3.0 (10 stops)Dimensions (W x L x H): 100 x 100 x 2 mmWeight: 65 g Scope of delivery: 1 x Haida Gray Filter ND3.0 100 x 100 mm1 x transport box Gray filter calculationThe aperture reduction of ND filters is calculated as follows:The density of ND filters is usually given in steps of 0.3.To obtain the aperture reduction, first multiply the value by 10 and then divide by 3. 0.3 x 10 = 3 | 3 = 1 f-stop0.9 x 10 = 9 | 3 = 3 f-stops0.6 x 10 = 6 | 3 = 2 f-stops1.2 x 10 = 12 | 3 = 4 f-stops1.8 x 10 = 18 | 3 = 6 f-stops3.0 x 10 = 30 | 3 = 10 f-stops3.6 x 10 = 36 | 3 = 12 f-stops4.5 x 10 = 45 | 3 = 15 f-stops

CHF 128.00*

Only 2 available

ND filter plug-in filter ND 4.5 100 mm Haida

ND filter plug-in filter ND 4.5 100 mm Haida Super Stopper Gray Filters ND4.5 are perfect for long exposures for architectural photography. The Haida rectangular ND4.5 gray filter provides shutter speed extension during exposure in a shot by reducing the amount of incoming light on the sensor. The Neutral Density Filter 4.5 filter is a strong gray filter - which is also called Super Stopper - and is especially suitable for long exposures in architectural photography in bright sunlight.A margin of 15 stops makes the surface look very smooth and surreal in long exposures of water. Architectural photographers use the ND filter for extended long exposures that make moving people, animals or cars in front of buildings, landmarks or in busy squares disappear from the picture. Further, architectural photographers use it to blur clouds above architectures for a particularly beautiful effect. The ND4.5 gray filter is particularly suitable for:Perfect for long exposures of water for creative work. For example, at sunrise, the seawater flowing away looks surreal. Architectural photographers often use long exposure to blur the clouds over the architecture to enhance the photo, as this effect adds artistic value to the image. With an ND4.5, you can achieve the following shutter speeds: At 1/2000sec, the shutter speed increases to 15sec.At 1/500sec the shutter speed increases to 1min4secAt 1/125sec, the shutter speed increases to 4min16sec. Multi-coated optical glass reduces reflectionsThe Haida gray filter is made of glass that is ground and polished on both sides for durability and the highest optical quality. The two-millimeter-thin glass filter is free of color casts and offers high resolution. Its special multi-coating reduces the occurrence of reflections and makes the filter insensitive to scratches. Easy to mount with separately available adapter rings and filter holder.For mounting, screw the matching adapter ring from the Haida M10 filter system onto the lens and attach the filter holder to it. In this way, the graduated filter can be easily used with lenses from a focal length of approximately 16 millimeters on a full-frame camera (APS-C from approximately 11 millimeters).Up to three slots in the holder accommodate the desired creative filters. When inserting the ND filter, please make sure that the gray filter covers the lens properly so that no light enters sideways. Metal box for safe storage and transportationThe filter comes with a metal box. This is perfect for transporting or storing the filter well protected. All advantages at a glance: Ideal for landscape photographyHigh-quality optical glass with nano coatingAbsolute color neutralityEasy insertion instead of screws (adjust the image section and insert the filter directly)Scratch-resistant multi-coating suppresses reflectionsRed-Diamond version, break resistance significantly increasedRounded R5 edges for easier mountingPart of a complete filter system with optionally available adapter rings and filter holder Technical details: Material: glass, multi-coated, scratch resistant, splash water protectedCoating: Nano Pro coatedStrength: ND4.5 (15 stops)Dimensions (W x L x H): 100 x 100 x 2 mmWeight: 65 g Scope of delivery: 1 x Haida Gray Filter ND4.5 100 x 100 mm1 x transport box Gray filter calculation The aperture reduction of ND filters is calculated as follows:The density of ND filters is usually given in steps of 0.3.To obtain the aperture reduction, first multiply the value by 10 and then divide by 3. 0.3 x 10 = 3 | 3 = 1 f-stop0.9 x 10 = 9 | 3 = 3 f-stops0.6 x 10 = 6 | 3 = 2 f-stops1.2 x 10 = 12 | 3 = 4 f-stops1.8 x 10 = 18 | 3 = 6 f-stops3.0 x 10 = 30 | 3 = 10 f-stops3.6 x 10 = 36 | 3 = 12 f-stops4.5 x 10 = 45 | 3 = 15 f-stops

CHF 128.00*

ND filter plug-in filter ND 6.0 100 mm Haida

ND filter plug-in filter ND 6.0 100 mm Haida One Million X Edition Gray Filter ND6.0 is a special gray filter for very long time exposures. The rectangular Haida Gray Filter ND6.0 provides shutter speed extension during exposure in a shot by reducing the amount of incoming light on the sensor. The Neutral Density 6.0 filter is a very strong gray filter - which is also called One Million X - and is particularly suitable for very long time exposures in very bright and very bright midday sun. A particularly creative mind is required for these filters, and those who enjoy experimentation will certainly have fun with this filter. With an ND6.0 you will achieve the following shutter speeds: At 1/2000sec, the shutter speed increases to 8min20sec.At 1/500sec the shutter speed increases to 33min20secAt 1/125sec, the shutter speed increases to 2h13min20sec. So you see, the shutter speed can be extremely prolonged. Therefore, we recommend taking a good book with you. Multi-coated optical glass reduces reflectionsThe Haida gray filter is made of glass ground and polished on both sides, which stands for durability and highest optical quality. The two-millimeter-thin glass filter is free of color casts and offers high resolution. Its special multi-coating reduces the occurrence of reflections and makes the filter insensitive to scratches. Easy to mount with separately available adapter rings and filter holder.For mounting, screw the matching adapter ring from the Haida M10 filter system onto the lens and attach the filter holder to it. In this way, the graduated filter can be easily used with lenses from a focal length of approximately 16 millimeters on a full-frame camera (APS-C from approximately 11 millimeters).Up to three slots in the holder accommodate the desired creative filters. When inserting the ND filter, please make sure that the gray filter covers the lens properly so that no light enters sideways. Metal box for safe storage and transportationThe filter comes with a metal box. This is perfect for transporting or storing the filter well protected. All advantages at a glance: Ideal for landscape photographyHigh-quality optical glass with nano coatingAbsolute color neutralityEasy insertion instead of screws (adjust the image section and insert the filter directly)Scratch-resistant multi-coating suppresses reflectionsRed-Diamond version, break resistance significantly increasedRounded R5 edges for easier mountingPart of a complete filter system with optionally available adapter rings and filter holder Technical details: Material: glass, multi-coated, scratch resistant, splash water protectedCoating: Nano Pro coatedStrength: ND6.0 (20 stops)Dimensions (W x L x H): 100 x 100 x 2 mmWeight: 65 g Scope of delivery: 1 x Haida Gray Filter ND6.0 100 x 100 mm1 x transport box Gray filter calculation The aperture reduction of ND filters is calculated as follows:The density of ND filters is usually given in steps of 0.3.To obtain the aperture reduction, first multiply the value by 10 and then divide by 3. 0.3 x 10 = 3 | 3 = 1 f-stop0.9 x 10 = 9 | 3 = 3 f-stops0.6 x 10 = 6 | 3 = 2 f-stops1.2 x 10 = 12 | 3 = 4 f-stops1.8 x 10 = 18 | 3 = 6 f-stops3.0 x 10 = 30 | 3 = 10 f-stops3.6 x 10 = 36 | 3 = 12 f-stops4.5 x 10 = 45 | 3 = 15 f-stops

CHF 69.00* CHF 139.00* (50.36% saved)

Using ND filters in landscape photography

One of the main uses of ND filters in landscape photography is for long exposures. When photographing water, in particular, you can use an ND filter to make the water appear soft and silky. You can also use a longer exposure time to make cloud movements appear smoother and more dynamic. In Switzerland, there are numerous opportunities for long exposures, for example at lakes such as Lake Geneva or at rivers such as the Aare.

Step-by-step guide for long exposures

1. Choose the right ND filter: Depending on the light and how long you want to expose, choose an ND filter between 3 and 10 stops.

2. Camera settings: Set your camera to manual mode. Start with an aperture between f/8 and f/16 to achieve maximum depth of field.

3. Use a tripod: Since you are working with long exposure times, a stable tripod is essential to avoid camera shake.

4. Setting the exposure time: Start with a short exposure time and gradually extend it until you achieve the desired effect.

5. Focusing: Focus before attaching the ND filter, as the dark image may make it difficult for you to adjust the focus after attaching the filter.

Exposing water and sky

The ND filter helps you to find the right balance between water and sky, which is often a challenge, especially in landscape photography. Without a filter, either the sky may be overexposed or the water may appear too dark. With an ND filter, you can use longer exposure times to, for example, soften the movement of the water, while still keeping the sky well exposed.

Creative possibilities through motion blur

With an ND filter, you can create targeted motion blur that gives the image a dynamic and artistic touch. This is particularly useful for scenes with waterfalls, waves or moving clouds. You can also use the ND filter when shooting in cities, for example in Zurich or Bern, to creatively depict the movement of people or cars.

Photographing in daylight

Another advantage of an ND filter is the ability to work with longer exposure times even in bright daylight. Normally, this would be difficult in direct sunlight, as the photos would quickly be overexposed. But with an ND filter, you can create stunning long exposures even at midday when the light is particularly intense.

Haida Vergleich Red Diamond ND4.5 Filter

Challenges of using ND filters

Color shifts

A common problem when using ND filters is color shift. Some filters can produce a slight color cast that can affect the overall impact of the image. In most cases, this can be fixed in post-production by adjusting the white balance settings. However, when purchasing an ND filter, make sure you choose a high-quality model to minimize color shifts.

Focusing with ND filters

As mentioned earlier, focusing can be difficult with an ND filter, especially with stronger filters like the ND1000. Since the image is darkened considerably by the filter, it is often no longer possible to focus using the viewfinder or on the display. One trick is to focus without the filter first and then attach the filter. You can also use autofocus and then deactivate it after focusing before attaching the filter.

Using a remote shutter release

Since you are working with very long exposure times, even pressing the shutter release can cause blurring. Therefore, it is advisable to use a remote shutter release. Alternatively, you can set your camera's self-timer to 2 or 10 seconds to minimize the risk of blurring.

You can find such remote shutter releases in our shop here

Screw-in filters vs. slide-in filter systems

Screw-in filters are screwed directly onto the lens, while slide-in filter systems allow you to place several filters in front of the lens at the same time. Screw-in filters are easier to use and more compact, while slide-in filter systems offer more flexibility, especially if you want to combine several filters (e.g. an ND and a polarizing filter).

ND filters in Swiss landscape photography

Switzerland offers a variety of spectacular landscapes that are just crying out to be captured with an ND filter. Whether it's the majestic mountains of the Alps, the deep valleys or the clear mountain lakes, with an ND filter you can.