SINGH RAY VARI-ND FILTER

Feb 8, 2008
By John Paul Caponigro

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This one filter performs the function of many.  Reduce the amount of light coming through your lens by 2 to 8 stops. Simply rotate the filter to increase or decrease the effect.

Frame and focus with the filter on at minimum density. Then rotate the filter to intensify the effect as desired. It can get so dark you can hardly see through it.

Because the Vari-ND is so easy to use, it encourages experimentation with a wide range of exposures and effects:

Make long exposures (enhancing motion blur).
Make selective focus easier.
Enhance close-up flash control.
Exaggerate the effects of panning during exposure.

As you test your Vari-ND Filter, you’ll find the effects will vary with focal length, direction and speed of motion (your subject’s or your own or both), and of course duration of exposure.

Use the preview on your DSLR to confirm your results instantly. Monitor your histogram after exposure to confirm proper exposure.

The Vari-ND comes in 77 and 82 mm sizes. Adaptors for other sizes are available. List price varies from $340 to $440.

The Vari-ND can be used with most other Sing-Ray filters, except Polarizers. You can amplify the effect of the Vari-ND by stacking it with the Mor-Slo 5 Stop Solid ND Filter.

Singh-Ray filters are legendary for their optical quality.

The VariND filter is one of the few filters I use.

For more information visit www.singh-ray.com/varind.html.

Read the latest from professional photographer John Paul Caponigro on PDNGearGuide.com as he reviews photo-related products that he’s tested for his own creative work. His reviews include ColorThink software, Premier Art™ Print Shield—a lacquer-based spray for inkjet prints, SoLux bulbs and the ExpoDisc Flat White Balance filter, just to name a few.