Photo Filters & Camera Filters – ND Filters, Polarizing Filters, and Slip-On Filter Systems from Haida

Photo filters are among the few accessories that have a truly visible effect on the final image. An ND filter enables long exposures in bright daylight, a polarizing filter reduces unwanted reflections and enhances colors, and a graduated filter balances the difference in brightness between the sky and the ground. No image editing program can fully replace these optical effects.

In this category, you’ll find screw-in filters, magnetic photo filters, clip-on filters, filter holders, and matching adapters from Haida, one of the leading brands for high-quality camera filters. The filters feature a color-neutral coating, are durable, and are designed for use in the field.

Whether you’re working with long exposure times in landscape photography, avoiding extra weight as a travel photographer, or need consistent exposure as a videographer—here you’ll find the right filter system for your lens and your application.

What types of photo filters are there, and what are they used for?

Photo filters are placed in front of the lens and alter the light before it reaches the sensor. This fundamentally distinguishes them from post-processing corrections in image editing. Three filter types are most commonly used in practice:

The ND filter (neutral density filter) reduces the amount of incoming light without altering the colors. This allows for longer exposure times in bright light—for flowing water, silky mist over lakes, or motion blur in vehicles. Depending on the filter’s density, short effect exposures or long exposures lasting several minutes are possible.

The polarizing filter reduces reflections on water surfaces, glass, or wet stones while intensifying blue tones in the sky and green tones in vegetation. It does not replace an ND filter, but it complements it effectively.

The graduated neutral density (GND) filter is dark on one half and transparent on the other. It balances the difference in brightness between a bright sky and a darker landscape and is a standard tool in landscape photography.

ND filter, polarizing filter, or graduated neutral density filter—which one is right for you?

For long exposures during the day, an ND filter is essential. Those who frequently photograph near bodies of water, while traveling, or in changing light conditions most often reach for a polarizing filter. Graduated filters are particularly suitable when the sky is significantly brighter than the foreground during the shot and natural exposure is desired.

Many photographers combine multiple filter types. An ND filter and a polarizing filter, for example, can be used simultaneously if the system is designed for it.

Screw-in filters, magnetic filters, or clip-on filter systems: The Differences

Screw-in filters are screwed directly onto the lens’s filter thread. They are compact, inexpensive to purchase, and well-suited for beginners. Disadvantage: Every lens with a different thread requires its own filter or adapter.

Magnetic photo filters can be changed quickly and are particularly suitable for travel, where time and portability are important. Haida offers magnetic filters in various sizes that can be attached using a bayonet ring without screws.

Slide-in filter systems like the Haida M10 or M15 use rectangular filters that slide into a filter holder. This system is more flexible, as a single holder can be used with adapters for different lenses. Gradient filters can be positioned continuously within the holder, which is not possible with screw-in filters. Slip-on filter systems are the preferred solution for ambitious landscape photographers who regularly work with gradient filters.

Key purchasing criteria for camera filters

Color neutrality is the most important quality characteristic of an ND or graduated filter. Inexpensive filters can cause a noticeable color cast that requires time-consuming correction during post-processing. High-quality filters such as the Haida Red Diamond or NanoPro series are designed for maximum color neutrality.

The coating affects how easily a filter absorbs grease, water, and dust. A NanoPro coating makes cleaning in the field much easier, which is particularly relevant for outdoor and travel photography.

System compatibility means: The filter holder or screw-in filter must fit the filter thread of your lens. Adapters allow you to use a single holder for multiple lenses. Before purchasing, check which lenses you use regularly.

Durability and weight are particularly important on hikes and long trips. Metal frames and tempered glass increase the lifespan, even if filters are dropped.

Haida Filters: Quality, Coating, and System Selection

Haida is one of the most widely used filter brands in professional photography and videography. The range includes ND filters, polarizing filters, gradient filters, as well as complete slip-on filter systems such as the Haida M10 (for lenses up to 82 mm) and the Haida M15 (for wide-angle and shift lenses). Magnetic Haida filters allow for particularly quick filter changes without a filter holder.

The Red Diamond and NanoPro series differ primarily in glass quality and coating. Both series are designed for color neutrality and easy cleaning. Which series is the right choice depends on the intended use, the available budget, and the desired ND density.

For those new to filter photography, a single screw-in filter in the appropriate size is often sufficient. Those who use filters frequently and work with different lenses will benefit in the long run from a slip-on filter system with adapters.