The ONLY photography filters you really need

Filters are something that almost all landscape photographers have but do you need them? In this video I chat more about my thoughts and why I have changed my filter system to something much simpler.
Kase Magnetic Filters
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Fav lens - Nikon 24-70mm Z f4 - geni.us/nikon2470
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FUJI GEAR (Main FILM camera)
Fujifilm X-T3 - geni.us/fujifilmxt3
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OTHER PHOTO GEAR
Awesome sensor brush - geni.us/brush4sensor
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The great printer I use Canon P1000 - geni.us/cIIc
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Great bag for hiking - Tenba 24L - geni.us/orPwh
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A must have for tripod (L bracket) - geni.us/myLbracket
Lightweight tripod - Benro Mach3 Carbon Fiber Tripod - geni.us/benromach3
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Screw on ND filter - geni.us/polarproND
#photography #filters #landscapephotography

[@louisevessey3839]

I would never have thought of using a polarizer for wet leaves for photos in the woods! Game changer! Your intro scene was breathtaking! Awesome video!

[@martinc.2276]

I realized this a couple of days ago when I was walking through the woods with polarized sunglasses. I wanted to caputre what I saw because it was beautiful but all the pictures turned out bad. In fact that's why I rewatch this vid :-P

[@iskandartaib]

I started using a polarizer almost full-time because I noticed you could change color saturation on surfaces, at least some of the time.

[@peterpage597]

Thank you Nigel for another great video. I ordered a Kase filter kit a few days ago and it's backordered. Sigh... Another great thing that no one ever seems to mention about magnetic filters is how easy it is to combine a polarizing filter with an ND filter relative to doing the same thing with screw-on filters. With screw-on filters we can’t adjust the polarizing filter if we put the ND filter on first because it’s too dark. But if we put the polarizing filter on first and adjust it, it is difficult to avoid changing the orientation of that filter when we screw on the ND filter. With these filters it is easy to add and adjust the polarizing filter and then snap the ND filter on top of it. Done! No fuss!

[@stephen-bolton]

I bought the Kase system from the Kase stand at the photography show earlier in the year. I was talking to Andrew Yu, who’s a director there. He showed me some raw long exposure images of Salford Quays in Lightroom that had absolutely no colour cast. They are really good. I went home and sold most of my Lee stuff. No regrets.

[@sanclewphotographic]

Great video Nigel, they just seem to be getting better if that's at all possible, nobody produces such variable footage with all the help and advice that you share with us, for which we are grateful, there is nothing like getting advice from a professional photographer, unlike many who just vlog, cannot wait for the Skye videos as I go there every year and have just come back from a three week holiday in Scotland, and I am in fact watching your latest video in the Yorkshire Dales where I am here for a week, Regards, Colin.

[@davidbailey4976]

That initial drone footage is spectacular! I appreciate where you are coming from, on the use of filters. It is such a faff, having to carry multiple sets of filters and then the lens hood won't fit on..... I must check out Kase. Thanks Nigel.

[@josephstanski5180]

I really like #1 tip the best and your quick summation of all of them "a pain in the a**" - can't wait for next weeks vid - Wow!

[@paulm2885]

Thanks for the video Nigel - Been using the Kase magnetic system for the last month or so and very impressed. They recently brought out some spare adaptors so you can have more than one lens ready to go. Nice video and pretty much sums up my approach to filters

[@pnass1]

Thank you so much for this recommendation. I was looking for a simpler solution to my current filter system. Just like you, I find these so cumbersome. Especially when it is windy. I will definitely buy these.

[@outofthecommonphotography5503]

Now THAT'S the way you start a video! Have a drone follow you while you narrate. Extremely professional and creative!!! Thanks for the advice as well Nigel!!!

[@ericbishop499]

Dissipating cows... is that where evaporated milk comes from? Love the vids, THANKS!

[@vdg8508]

😂

[@michaellennon9427]

A cow that gets an abortion: "De-calfinated". Nyuck, nyuck, nyuck...

[@massdistraction6169]

Great video, thanks for taking the time. Looking forward to next week's, that looks like a beautiful spot.

[@MrDazza64]

Hi Nige, can’t wait for next Sunday buddy, really excited already! I believe you’re not very far away from me and I still live in hope to bump into you one of these days to thank you in person for all your wonderful videos. It’s been such a pleasure and inspirational experience to follow your deserved success with your channel over these few short years. Regards, Dazza. 🇬🇧

[@tube63017]

i struggled with fitting filters on my camera with all the bulky fixtures. the KASE filter system is awesome. I am so glad I watched the video. Thanks a million.

[@waya1056]

OMG what a beautiful opening scene!!!

[@antonoat]

Cracking video Nigel, helpful and enjoyable as always, cheers.

[@jimmyzwheelz]

Nigel, just to update...I ordered and received my new Kase filter system and absolutely love it! In fact, I just sold my LEE set-up. Thanks again for the great video.

[@anthonyplancherel8274]

Great tips as always Nigel! Excellent stuff!

[@ChristianLawrence]

I have used the kase filters for 18 months now. Awesome filters. The magnetic ones are on my list, really love the concept and simplicity of them.

[@aliskandari]

Magnetic filters...brilliant! And here İ thought nothing could surprise me. That İS helpful! Cheers!

[@ricklewis5869]

I love your honesty!! And, your casual manner with your videos. It is quite refreshing. Excellent video on filters by the way. The thing I find very interesting is that we both shoot the same gear, Nikon Z7 & Fuji X-T3 and we have similar tastes in photographs.

[@TheSoloistHikes]

Really wonderful content, learning lots about photography and enjoying your shots! Keep it up mate

[@lwilson5198]

Thanks Nigel, i love your videos and newsletter. As a new photographer, they help a lot.x

[@maritzas2575]

Back in the day, I used to work for Hughes Aircraft as well. Thanks for sharing another great video. That opening drone footage is stunning. I really like the idea of these filters as I hate carrying so much around. I'll need to check them out. Thanks again.

[@prim3rib343]

Nigel, you're an inspiration! Love seeing all your videos.

[@jasonp8948]

2:35 “...which doesn’t make me love it any more...” LOL I always enjoy your wit and perspective, Nigel. Thanks for another great video.

[@DJshutterfly]

Help me! I'm still laughing!!!

[@Mepjc]

"...so I feel like I know quite a bit about lens technology, coating technology..." understatement of year given that thesis!

[@NigelDanson]

😬

[@Garacha222]

I appreciate the disclosure of your work experience. My beef with filters is that I am fanatic about using hoods, and swapping filters makes this difficult. a drop-in system might be ideal to support various filter usage

[@valerievaleriem1769]

Funnily enough I purchased the Kase Polariser this week as having limited feeling and mobility in my fingers I find it so much easier to use.

[@stevenwilson5556]

Brilliant point and sorry about your fingers. It is great that you are still out there shooting photographs! Don't let anything stop you!

[@valerievaleriem1769]

@michael - I have a rare neurological condition which means that my nerves are slowing dying so I am losing all feeling in my fingers.

[@anujasharma9677]

Really very informative vlog, Nigel. Very precise and handy. Thank you.

[@hartsphotography]

I dont normally buy things i see on Youtbe videos but have to say these KASE magnetic filters are great they make life so much easier. The people at KASE were really helpful as well and your 5% discount code came in handy so thanks very much Nigel.

[@sidkul3766]

This presentation is The Facts of Life about using filters. Am a novice and getting to understand filters better. Thumbs Up for the sharing.

[@Mowikan]

I totally agree on filters with you. My circ filter is my most used. The long exposure is nice but also a trick in the end.

[@davidpo5517]

The cut at 11:16 had me like woah! So beautiful!

[@lorenbrand]

I learned a lot, thank you! So useful, I watched it twice!

[@TheMoodyPhotographer]

Nice video again dear Nigel ❤❤ , as you said I have't ever thought about graduated ND. I do have a normal ND filter for water photos like the lakes, but a polarizer filter is my best friend and 90% of my photos are with it on.

[@cii1072]

Good discussion. That drone shot of you on the peak is awesome.

[@aliciatangotweety4815]

WOW! What a viewpoint!! I got magnetic filters and finally, I can EASILY take off the CPL filters!

[@marcusdekker]

Awesome drone shot and great explanation!!!!

[@virmin32]

Just they info I needed on filters and for the amount of times I’ll be using them I will definitely be buying the Kase filters, 👍👍👍

[@Mark-fm8gm]

Great video. Been looking at these filters for the last few weeks. Just purchased a set (and used your discount code 😊). Looking forward to using them on a trip to Skye & Harris in September 📷

[@richardmilbourne1679]

Hi Nigel your videos are so simple to follow and understand love watching them .Again my passion is Motorsport photograph i only use a polarized filter for race tracks it takes away the white glare on the cars windscreens plus brings out the fabulous colours of the cars . However i used a UV filter when i went to Rally GB a couple of years ago .and because i could get closer to the cars .A stone hit the end of my lens lucky it only damaged the filter had i not had it on my Canon f4 would have had a chip in the front glass .So when i shoot rally cars i always keep a U V filter on .

[@busterlynch5278]

Was just about to buy a set of Lee ND filters when I found your video, thanks for your advice and for saving me some money. Always worth doing thorough research!

[@NigelDanson]

Awesome - you won’t regret that decision

[@AlexBerger]

One of the parts of long lens + polarizer photography I struggle with is distortion. There's a lot about "the glass" or "the coating" matters, but based on your special background would love to hear your thoughts. So hard to tell what's heat island, what's general lens distortion, and what's filter (esp. a circular polarizer) in shots. Would love some insight there with pixel peeping.

[@stefanhansen5882]

Thanks a lot! What a brilliant idea with magnetic filters!

[@firstMillo]

Thanks to youtube for drawing my attention to your channel, Nigel :) Subscribed and still enjoying!

[@madcat1007]

Fantastic to see you all again.

[@JoDaniels]

Great tool information. Perhaps you can spend a video on creating a “Graduation Filter” effect in PhotoShop😊 Very interesting sneak preview on your Scotland workshop. Looking forward to your video!

[@mrsusan893]

It's the simplest thing honestly and will save you hundreds of dollars

[@christian.irmler]

Really interesting, Nigel! I also went away from filter systems some time ago, graduated nd's don't work with our mountains here well :) And also because of less weight and space I use skrew filters. The only annoying thing with them for me is that boring "skrewing part" :) I recognized already such magnetic filters, but never tried. Thank you for sharing in your video!

[@tekinalpturk571]

Thanks for your great video. It has all information I need about filters. A mixture of information and experinece of one I trust. Otherwise, I had to do researches for very long time.

[@colintomjenkins]

Thanks Nigel. I sold my Lee kit a while ago for exactly the reason you stated :) Have ordered a Kase kit now.

[@richardstollar4291]

Great video as always, love your channel. When I switched (from Nikon) to the Fuji system, I also switched filters to the Lee Seven5 system which is amazing but maxes out on 72mm filter thread. Just got the 100-400 which has 77mm - damn! My question is really how do these Kase filters compare in quality to Lee?

[@roadshoulderphotography683]

That opening scen with the camera moves around you on the cliff is absolutely amazing

[@jakob2049]

Drone*

[@discoverBR]

@@jakob2049 *drone's camera

[@jakob2049]

utterphoto no

[@discoverBR]

@@jakob2049 yes

[@jakob2049]

utterphoto no u

[@sweetscience1988]

Hey Nigel, thanks for the review and more specifically the discount code! i saved £15 on the pro kit. look forward to more of your images!

[@helencogan2187]

I have the Benro System and I love it.. I get the system you are showing...looks awesome very simple but I'm not about to change. There is always something new.. I can't keep up..LOL Thanks for all this info...great vlog!!

[@tompetersphotography]

Great vlog Nigel, I would also highly recommend the Kase filters. I do use the square system though lol 😂

[@Hirsutechin]

I'll be waiting for Elgol next Sunday, looks great conditions!

[@theonlyitaliangirl]

2 1/2 years later, I"m so glad I saw this video. I have been looking at buying NiSi fliter holder and KASE graduated ND filters for the past three days. Almost went ahead and bought them. And only real reason I wanted them was to shoot a sunset at the beach I'll be at in a couple of weeks. 🤦🏻‍♀️.But, you're right.... I can certainly work with my images in post. And I don't want to carry all that equipment as I will be limited on space. I'll save my money and invest in the magnetic filters instead. I currently have some by Breakthrough Photography, but I really like the idea of the magnetic ones. Thanks for always putting out great content Nigel.

[@bryanthornton6787]

Interesting filter system! How is the vignetting when stacking a couple of those filters?

[@57northphoto32]

Love the simplicity of the Kase system, never heard of it before. Over time I’ve chosen my kit to work around lee’s Seven5 system which I suppose limits the types of lenses I can choose but it’s all about simplicity and compactness when I’ve dropped and broken all the filters I’ll give Kase a go.

[@tomasvihaan1048]

you all prolly dont give a damn but does someone know a trick to log back into an Instagram account..? I was stupid forgot my login password. I would appreciate any tips you can give me

[@zechariahdonald6694]

@Tomas Vihaan instablaster :)

[@tomasvihaan1048]

@Zechariah Donald Thanks for your reply. I found the site thru google and I'm waiting for the hacking stuff now. Takes a while so I will reply here later with my results.

[@tomasvihaan1048]

@Zechariah Donald it did the trick and I finally got access to my account again. I am so happy:D Thank you so much, you saved my account !

[@zechariahdonald6694]

@Tomas Vihaan You are welcome =)

[@lpark8]

Another great video thank you! 🙏 I wish I would have seen it sooner

[@calmthemonster]

Ultimate opening scene! Amazing!

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

I must say that kit from kase I have been looking at and I think it's where I am going to head. Great stuff.

[@jeandenoel5534]

Hi and thank you for this vlog (all your vlogs, in fact) Personally, I use the Lee filter system but I must admit I mostly (at least 90% of the time) only use CPL. I don’t like to have to screw filters on, especially in the field, and that’s why I chose the Lee filter system. One of the main advantages of such a system is also that one filter can be used with different lenses with just the use of different adapters. The Kase system presented here is very tempting, but are there different diameters of adapters allowing the same filters to be used with different lenses? Thank you again, I’m a big fan of your channel.

[@rodscherich9973]

Thanks for the information Nigel.

[@idocphoto]

Great video and very timely as I’ve been looking for a alternative to my Lee Seven5 System. On the Fujifilm 10-24mm f4 which Kase filter size are you using? Obviously I want to avoid any vignettes if stacking 2 filters so unsure whether to go the 72mm or 77mm. Oh BTW this year’s calendar looks awesome and cheers for the cards.

[@jmmcg9]

Great video. I have watched at least a dozen videos on the different filter systems. This one pointed out what I think is the key deciding point for me: I don’t really have a need for a graduated filter. I am very proficient Photoshop. Eliminating the need for a graduated ND, makes the magnetic systems a viable option. Your background in deposition technology also sold me as I have >30 years experience as a Semiconductor Lithography Engineer. I trust Science! Thanks for get me off the fence!

[@MattBishopPhotography]

Yeh. Good overview mate. I too use Kase Filters and have a been a big advocate for them for years now here in Italy.

[@pauldowney7130]

Dang! I only have two real thumbs for this brilliant presentation! So here’s the virtual 5 star version 👍👍👍👍👍 😃

[@nore8141]

Great video and commentary I enjoyed it good tip on the filters.

[@corrbox2]

Very intreresting ideas and suggestions. It's been a while since you did this video, but I find it very informative and up tp date as I prepare for my upcoming trip to Ireland in two weeks. I appreciate all your suggestions, from your experiences. 👌👍😎👀📷

[@tjsinva]

Nice video highlighting a sensible alternative to all the systems out there as long as the magnets are effective. Looking forward to the upcoming videos even though my vertigo reflex is probably going to get a workout. Skye will join the Faroes as unlikely destinations for these weak knees. Rock on!

[@NigelDanson]

ha ha - that is the only shot I am high up.

[@frankgarvan1921]

GREAT WORK ,WELL DONE ,YOU TELL IT AS IT IS WHICH IS GREAT

[@eltinjones4542]

I've ordered a K&F concept variable ND. My Cokin set up (despite the it's wide angle holder) caused vignetting on my 77mm diameter lenses, ok on 67mm and lower. And I agree, they are a pain to set up 😱. Lee filters etc are to expensive for my tastes

[@TheNiceee1]

Great video. I'm looking for a filterset and so far the Kase magnetic system seems very interesting. However I've looked on their site and they only come in 3 sizes. My main lens doesn't have the same diameter as the kits. Now I've seen that they also sell step up adapterrings but I was wondering if don't get in trouble using for example a 55mm diameter lens with a 77mm diameter lenskit. Would you know if this influences the shots I'll be taking?

[@stephenschmid492]

Quite the spectacular setting!

[@DianeBianchi_MNStormSpotter]

Magnetic filter, never heard of them before your video. Brilliant!

[@brianrodger9256]

Just love Skye, the Quiraing, Loch Coruisk etc. look forward to watching that blog. All the best from Callander.

[@johngunning2123]

I think the Isle of Skye is my favourite part of this planet (that is, in summer when it's not raining). Good point about using post production to avoid using some filters. I'm still keen to carry some filters with me.

[@allynhawthorne4434]

Very well made, enjoyed the video.

[@fabrizioscimia2298]

Thanks for the very informative review. Exactly what I was looking for. I just ordered my kit! Now I need just to go out and shoot. Any nice location in Ireland that you suggest?

[@dawnpowell5621]

Have enjoyed watching your videos. Have to say I've been on a bit of a binge watching one after another. One thing I was wondering is if you ever use a flash when shooting ? I've started getting into photography more over the last year and am still trying to get my mind around the technical side of taking pictures ie ISO, shutter speed, etc. Love shooting wildlife but also enjoy landscape. Really enjoyed your Iceland trips. thanks for all your work in producing these. I love it when you get out in the field and walk us through your process :)

[@zuki5904]

Nice Giants cap, enjoyed the video. I’m getting back in to photography/videographer and this video helped clear some things up. Thanks!

[@pvcboard]

We are a filter factory in China, if you have interesting, we can OEM for you. pls contact me bobby(at)zoz.ltd

[@derekmidgley]

11:50 is simply awesome and it's a good thing drone's aren't afraid of heights!

[@mikeroberts1281]

Thanks Nigel. Talk about timing. I came across this video just as I was about to buy a filter set. Glad I didn’t as these look sensational. I use a Nikon 10-24 DX ultra wide lens. The filter diameter is 77mm but I wonder if vignetting may be a problem. Do you know if the 77mm filters would be ok or should I go for the 82mm?

[@bmushler]

First time here. I dont believe I have ever commented on a first view but....exceptions and all that. Good job with explaining things. I believe the best picture ever taken includes getting the picture taken with a good knowledge of what you want the end result to be. As my Dad used to say, there is only so much a Bessler 22c can do. Yes we are in a digital age now and Lightroom and a few others are amazing but it sure is better not having to fix something that isn't broken to begin with.

[@DEVUNK88]

I also use Lee holders and hi-tec filters, but not often. the only filter I am going to buy will be a Polar Pro variable ND for video, I'll def look into these Kase filters though

[@speedbird2064]

Thanx for the filter advice Nigel, I currently use Cokin P series with my Pentax K3ii and the polariser I use most often but sometimes I use screw on UV filter just to protect my lenses. I'm still working on learning ND filters and their benefits and a lot to take in at times. Best wishes safe travels wherever you are going.

[@pinezko7401]

Is UV filter necessary when shooting in a very sunny day? I'm considering buying one to protect the camera and lenses

[@mahdiali6732]

Great video. Is it better if your lens thread is 77mm to use a larger filter such as 82mm in order to get rid of vignetting? In other words, does using the same size filter cause vignetting?

[@nimmira]

I have a set of Cokin's ND and I don't use them much really. However, whenever I need to, I just put on the ring on the lens and hold the filter with a clipper and that's it. No holder, no fuss. Ironically though, as much as polarizer is typically used to reduce reflections, in fact I use it sometimes to enhance reflections (specially in still life and product shooting). Have you tried infrared filters?

[@AbdulQadirKhan]

Hi, gr8 video thanks, What filter system would you use if you have to shoot with a bulging Nikko 14-24 F2.8 I am using this lens and need to do hugely long exposures of some fine lakes and waterfalls.

[@YOJIMMIE]

great video AGAIN!!!

[@martinfay7274]

I've been looking for a more compact filter system for my Fuji kit and this could be just the ticket. Can you leave the mag holders attached and still reverse hoods for storage or do they need to be removed from the lens? Also, subscribed to keep tabs on pebbles and her human. ;)

[@jackhoyer7467]

Very interesting video, thanks! I’m glad to have discovered your channel. Sorry if this is off topic, but I’m wondering how you feel about protector lenses, either clear, or uv? I’ve been considering buying protector lenses for 2 Fujinon gf lenses I recently acquired. My fear is that such lenses with their coatings might increase color saturation and contrast, or in other ways alter my photos. I’m currently thinking to do without protective lenses, and just be careful, use my lens hoods, and lens caps, etc. I’m wondering if you would agree with that approach?

[@stevemozzie6497]

I wasn't "into" photography when I visited Skye many years ago. If only … Looking forward to next week's video. I don't have any filters at all.

[@Dom5451]

Hi Nigel really helpful video. Please could I ask, do the Kase filters / adapter fit multiple lense diameters?

[@JeahnLaffitte]

I’m a few years late but this is a great video! Thanks. I find grads to be a huge help for shooting Time lapses or video so there’s that. But dynamic range is getting so good that it’s not really necessary all the time!

[@4NWHIP]

Hi! Thank you for the information. Love your channel. You're an amazing photographer. I have a couple questions if you don't mind. I use breakthrough photography filters. Two different X4 ND filters. A 6 stop and 10 stop. Used them for waterfalls in Oregon and Minnesota so far. So I'm still learning. Had a weird reddish flare towards the center when using the 10 stop with certain exposures. And others were fine. Any tips you my have to trouble shoot this? I've found some things about custom WB and shading the lens cause of lense flare. Thank you for your time. Have a great day.

[@SmallSpoonBrigade]

I'd make sure to use a lens hood, if you aren't already, and try to avoid shooting towards the sun. Some modern camera bodies will fake ultra-low sensitivity by samping to sensor rapidly so that there's not much time for the photons to pile up and then averaging the results. You get something approximately like an ND filter as the relationship between aperture and shutter speed break down a bit outside of the 1/1000 to 1 second range that you used to see on cameras with integrated light metering.

[@chrishall6364]

While it can seem a faff to use graduated neutral density filters in the field, it could be argued it's much more of a faff to have to create the effect in post processing afterwards, or to have to take two different images for blending in Photoshop; besides, I like to get my photos as right as possible in camera. I won't be ditching my graduated neutral density filters anytime soon!

[@anthonyphotoman]

Thanks Nigel an Enjoyable video

[@rascalhusky8129]

Good one , very educational. Thanks