Formatt Blender Neutral Density Filters resemble traditional graduated filters except that they are colored on top with a gradual transition to more subtle at the bottom. Graduated filters transition somewhere in the middle of the filter.
Neutral Density filters have several uses and offer the possibility to achieve results otherwise unachievable. They enable the shooter to adjust exposure without affecting color balance. ND filters appear gray and reduce the amount of light reaching the film.
Determining which neutral density filter yields ideal results for any given lighting situation takes knowledge, experience and a collection of such filters. Speaking generally, the 2-stop value (ND 0.6) effectively compensates average situations.
Formatt's Neutral Density Filters are a response to the many DPs and cinematographers who find that it is important to shoot as wide open as possible to minimize depth of field - especially with HD technology
Formatt HD neutral density filters have the same densities and light stops as the Kodak Wratten Standards
This filter allows the user more precise control; designed for HD (High Definition), these filters can be used to enhance contrast as well as normal light reduction
Interesting effects can be achieved using two different Blenders, (one upside down) one of which affects the top half of the image with the other affecting the bottom half
Neutral Density Filters Have Four Main Uses
To enable slow shutter speeds to be used, especially with high speed films, to record movement in subjects such as waterfalls, clouds, or cars
To decrease depth of field by allowing wider apertures to be used, which helps separate subjects from their background
To decrease the effective ISO of high speed film (above ISO 400) and allow it to be used outdoors in bright situation
To allow cine and video cameras (which have fixed shutter speeds) to film subjects such as snow, sand or other bright scenes which could cause overexposure
Neutral Density Factors
ND.3 (exposure adjustment = 1 stop, reduces ISO 1/2)
ND.6 (exposure adjustment = 2 stops, reduces ISO 1/4)
ND.9 (exposure adjustment = 3 stops, reduces ISO 1/8)
ND1.2 (exposure adjustment = 4 stops, reduces ISO 1/16)