The TRUTH about VARIABLE NDs!

You can buy the Freewell K2 at this link at the discounted price of $349 for a limited time gopb.co/k2
What was initially just a look at an impressive variable ND system became a video about understanding all the different types and associated problems. I couldn't understand the difference between the K2 and Freewell's previous ones and all the others I had. They wouldn't tell me, so I had to find out for myself!
The research and tests I needed to do were endless, as there is so much misinformation and a substantial lack of understanding about them.
I hope I have clarified everything here, and it will make you finally understand why your variable ND behaves a certain way. I learned so much making this, and I hope you do too from watching it.
Affiliate links (THANK YOU!)
Sony ZV-E1: gopb.co/zve1
Sony a7R V: gopb.co/a7rv
Tamron 35-150mm F/2-2.8: gopb.co/tamron35150
Sony 24mm F/1.4 GM: gopb.co/sony24
Sony 35mm F/1.4 GM: gopb.co/35mmgm
Sony 35mm F/1.8: gopb.co/sony35
Sony 100-400mm GM: gopb.co/sony100400
X-rite colour checker passport: gopb.co/xrite
Freewell magnetic VND: gopb.co/freewellmagvnd
Freeewll split VND: gopb.co/freewellvnd
My cat channel: ‪@OneManFiveCats‬
0:00 - Introduction
2:29 - Initial tests
4:31 - What are polarisers?
6:01 - What type of variable NDs are there?
7:47 - The Variable ND colour shift and the problem with Dual CPL VNDs
9:28 - The problem with linear polariser variable NDs and the K2 solution
11:08 - Filming screens with variable NDs
12:13 - Why variable NDs need to be split range
12:59 - The Freewell K2 advantage
14:35 - Drop in filters for the Freewell K2
15:46 - The things I don't like about the Freewell K2
17:07 - Sony FX6 electronic variable ND
17:47 - Final thoughts

[@AyoolaBoyejo]

I am always happy when PB reviews a product and then asks for a specific improvement from the manufacturer, it's like a unified voice for all content creators that is often hard for the manufacturer to ignore. Thanks for your hard work, we are all already enjoying improvements from Sony and DJI due to your past reviews.

[@jacques_crafford]

If I didn't understand it on paper, now I do. Great explanation Philip! Budget/Screw-on Filters have come a LONG WAY and it's cool to see them evolve and becoming more accessible to everyone.

[@philipbloom]

Cheers Jacques. I learnt a lot making this!

[@christianjackson]

Fantastic video. Thank you for your sacrifices testing all of these combinations.

[@philipbloom]

Thanks Christian, much appreciated. :)

[@Okiyah]

Wow, it demystifies a lot of it! Even though the K2 seems a bit massive for my needs, this dissection of the VND beast will definitely help me better use my already owned VND and understanding their limit. And troubleshooting them in most cases. Thank you for this!

[@FreewellGear]

Thank you, Philip, for your fantastic review! Your insights and expertise are greatly appreciated.

[@philipbloom]

Very happy you like it!

[@OEDS6]

I came for the info about NDs but stayed for the David Attenborough narration

[@blaspayri]

you are now the Maestro of variable ND. Thank you for this enlightening (with variable enlightenment) although I was looking for a short and simple video of "buy this or die" .... and now I have to think and illustrate myself ....

[@calebb.2335]

Wow! This is one of the most helpful videos you've made. You have the BEST reviews ever hands down, no contest. Thank you so much.

[@philipbloom]

Thank you. 🙂

[@ericaceous1652]

Fantastically informative and thoughtful - the music also is an excellent touch

[@Deatarus51]

I wish this video existed 3 years ago when I had to spend countless hours deep diving content and testing filters to understand all of this. This is hands down the best video on VNDs. The new thing I learned here which blew my mind was how different systems use different polarizations, the effects they have, and how the K2 system utilizes dual linear to let you rotate the whole thing and control the polarization angle. SOLD. This system is perfect for my needs. Philip Bloom your reviews are second to none. Your Sony autofocus videos hold a special place in my heart.

[@JerryWilliam63]

Lovely video as always, your kitties look very happy.

[@kaimelis]

You always fail to disappoint mr B. A good amount of information delivered neatly and understandably. Looking forward to the Mavic 3 Pro video!

[@byleonardlim]

I had stay away from getting a VND filter for far too long. With myself getting into cinematography lately, your video helped me a lot on what to look for. Cheers!

[@helencogan2187]

Thank YOU for your incredible work on ALL your videos! I have the PM version which are great,but in the cold weather my fingers don’t work well adding and removing the filter. I am give these a try! THank you again…

[@DiveHard]

This is the video I didn’t know I was waiting for. Love the explanations here - helps bring some perspective to our love/hate relationships with VNDs 🙃

[@dejavuking]

I literally searched best variable ND filter 2023 and Philips/your video came up which I was pleasantly surprised about and even more so that the videos brand new just uploaded. This video was so unbelievably helpful as I have a cheap neewar variable ND as a stop gas just to learn my new camera. But am wanting to purchase a good quality one but don’t want to waste money ending up with rubbish ones. The K2’s are probably a bit out of my price range but the original ones I might be able to stretch to. You know the other thing I noticed was how fantastic the audio quality was through my Sony xm4 headphones, really rich and deep I can imagine it was a very high end microphone being used!. Lastly I’ve just seen these TTartisan cine lenses T1.05 in 25mm, 35mm and 50mm for £503 and I’m thinking how can they be any good as oh Lord cine lenses are usually unbelievable in terms of cost!. I’m guessing their going to be extremely soft, colour shifting etc, I could be wrong as I’m definitely an amateur and not a pro. Just thought they look too good to be true!.

[@KevinvanDiest]

A nice in-depth video ..very interesting, few things I already knew but the way you explained and demonstrate it makes it even more clear. thanks!

[@braydenjones4505]

My thoughts are the same in terms of variable nd. I want do do testing like this without buying up every vnd in the world. Thank you for this video!

[@briansandersstudio]

Phillip, this is an incredibly useful video packed with so much information that I'm going to watch it again!! I learned things about VNDs that I never knew!! It is so encouraging to see almost zero color shift with the new K2 system! I had the freewell magnetic VND setup this year, but I unfortunately left them at an airport a few months ago :( I was actually looking to purchase Polar Pro's new Recon system, but now after watching your video, the K2 seems even more tempting!!

[@clensmedia6514]

Wow thank you for solving this, over the years I have tried so many variable ND filters and have had inconsistent results and now I know why. It also explains why my old C100s on board ND filters worked so well as they were not variable but different grades that you choose. Once again Phillip you have made my day.

[@dodmedia]

Brilliant breakdown Philip, I learned a lot! I loved Freewell's original magnetic VNDxMist system, but I always pack Velium's MagRota system for a shoot. It does have more of a colour shift and it's quite bulky, but the stackable modularity of the whole system works better for my needs

[@philipbloom]

Thanks David. Yes it’s a very good system. If they can put in a base LPL instead of CPL… I find it better on colour though as it’s a LPL from so it doesn’t change colour balance.

[@adamdrakestudio]

I don't often use a matte box but how wide is the first screw on piece of that set?

[@Whaever_1981]

Great video. Thank you. I generally stick to ND 0.9 and 1.8 and it works easily for 90% of scenarios. Another Variable ND that also has the option of separately adjusting polarization (so important indeed) is the SLR Magic Vari ND MK II

[@jackfisher1826]

Very useful video. K2 arrived today. A permanent fixture in my video camera bag now. Thanks Bloomster!

[@AsianWithHat]

Great video as always Philip!

[@philipbloom]

thank you! Make sure you watch it all though! :)

[@area51pictures]

Hi Philip. Just wanted to say how much I appreciated the depth you took on this topic with. A lot of your camera reviews for years were known for being the most thorough and trustworthy. Since then, you of course have influenced a lot of others to do the same. But it was cool seeing you apply the same scrutiny, time-intensiveness (and dry humor, of course) to VND's. As far as I can tell, even with the amount of VND evaluations on YT and social media, this is the only one that addresses some of the most challenging "variables" and draws some measurable conclusions. There's an assurance I have in going with your pick that's much stronger now, but it's actually more a testament to what you do well than to the products themselves. In making your evaluations and applying your time to product reviews, it's clear you shine brightest in investigating details in the product areas people tend to neglect or not even really consider. Cheers from LA. Soren.

[@philipbloom]

Thanks so much. This means a lot to me. ❤

[@AlexanderCornel]

Thank you 😊 for sharing this video with us 😊

[@LuisGomes.]

Thanks a lot for thus Philip.... It was such a good video, information and value. (Big hug)

[@jimmystewartuk]

Another excellent review Philip and great update to the magnetic filter system Freewell 👏🏼👏🏼 That rotation CPL with VND is a great combo 🙌🏼

[@philipbloom]

thanks Jimmy, which rotational CPL?

[@jimmystewartuk]

@@philipbloom I meant how the K2 is able to utilities the ND filter and CPL to cut reflective light at the same time by loosening and rotating the entire filter set, as you have demonstrated in the video. Or did I understood it wrong? This is something that wasn’t possible on the previous FREEWELL VND filter, where the only way to use CPL is to flip round the filter and take the inside polariser out.

[@philipbloom]

​@@jimmystewartuk i think you might need to rewatch this, Jimmy! :) There's no ND filter and there's definitely no CPL anywhere to be seen and this is key to what's different here.The difference between CPL and LPL is absolutely at the core of the confusion amongst people.

[@jimmystewartuk]

I watched it again and this is the part I meant about the 2 in 1 feature that you mentioned thanks to the rotatable design: 14:19 K2 “Can polarise light whilst using it as a variable ND”. Thanks for the knowledge 🙌🏼

[@philipbloom]

@@jimmystewartuk yep but it’s really important to not refer to it the way you have had. It’s not a CPL on an ND. All VNDs with a front LPL, doesn’t matter if the rear part is CPL or liner, will polarise light. Because this it tied in with the strength rotation you need the ability to compensate by rotating the entire filter. If it’s screw on that means unscrewing it, not good. That’s why what the K2 does is essential. I hope the others that are screw on will find a way to let you rotate them. This is the problem with the excellent NiSi true Color. It’s similar performance dual LPL VND to the K2 but screw on only. I am trying to find a neat way to solve this otherwise it’s going to be a pain.

[@domballsproductions]

Great review Philip. Just what I needed to watch and have now made a purchase of the K2.

[@TheJewellian]

brilliant review and explanation

[@robert_may]

Perfect timing - I'm in the market for a new VND. I have a really antagonistic relationship with filters and most of my current collection were bought more out of laziness than true research 🙈

[@philipbloom]

this will give you the knowledge to know what to look for. There is so much misinformation about them, including from manufacturers!

[@daniellove162]

I’ve had such a good experience with magnetic NDs and magnetic CPF that I have not considered a variable ND in a looooooooong time.

[@JaaksFilm]

I remember a few years ago i used the Hoya variable - Shocking!

[@Muwex]

Thanks for this Philip! You explained it well!

[@driftwoodtv]

Great stuff. Informative and beautifully narrated.

[@cinergymedia5455]

Great vid indeed and technical enough to understand but not overdone where I would tune out, thank you for putting in the hard yard :)

[@martinekwall4671]

Thank you for this thorough explanation and pointing out the problem. Another problem with filters in front of the lens is when stacking filters they vignette when using vide angle lenses 24mm or wider. I have Nisi and Schneider Hollywood Black Magic and rotate by unscrewing a bit to control pol.-effect 😬😬 In my case lens thread 77mm and the filters are 82mm, it’s not enough, filters should be 95mm not to vignette on 77mm lens for vide angle and stacking filters😮 The solution you show seems to avoid vignetting as it is so slim and wide. I find most manufacturers mist filters are over the top and look cheap. I can’t depart 😢 from the Schneider one. Hard to find a really good solution for all this 🤔. Thanks again for really great content!!

[@aarong2374]

always love your videos especially seeing the cats.

[@Ricky-vz2xn]

Thanks for the info helping demystify how CPL and LPL combos can interact to potentially produce a range of variable colour shift issues. So decided to subscribe. I'm new to videography and still have much to learn, so really appreciate your insights and the time you have taken to do this. I have tried screw-on Polar Pro PM II - good for convenience, but there are some inconsistencies. Ditto Tilta's Mirage with a 1-9 VND. From what I read elsewhere it seems that fixed NDs have much to commend them, but with a trade off on convenience, needing to switch NDs when in less controlled situations (i.e. casual use outdoors). For more serious (slower) working I think a matte box with fixed cine filters still has something to commend it, but costs in terms of £/$, heft, weight, convenience (i.e. lack of) and potentially attracting unwanted attention if/when attempting to operate discretely or fast (run and gun). I'm currently looking at a Maven system (magnetic fixed NDs) which look great for stills photography and also usable for videography given potential for fast ND changes. But system currently only has NDs fixed at 3, 6 and 10 stops. To some extent it's possible to adjust aperture to correct exposure, but that's also a trade off. However, I think they are shortly going to introduce fixed magnetic NDs in 2 and 4 stops as well (i.e. 2, 3, 4, 6 and 10 stop). Yielding a potential to easily slip on/off a mag filter for a 2, 3, 4, 6 and 10 stop correction via one ND and add a 5, 7, 8 and 9 stop capability via two NDs stacked. System looks small, light, good quality and hopefully fast(ish) to operate in practice. Perhaps a good compliment to screw-in Polar Pro PMs II which offer finer, fast adjustment but at the expense of slight colour variations. Whatever one uses, I'm sure that filming a 'colour checker' reference card and/or doing a custom white balance will also provide a benefit. But that also slows one down. As mentioned, I'm just learning, and starting to understand there is also an inherent trade off on quality vs time taken to pre-plan, think and improvise on set (or location), compose, adjust technically and ensure it's captured as intended. For sure I need to get out and do a lot of practical discovery to find what best suits me. Always interested to learn from other's insights and experience too.

[@cinematools9621]

I realized I knew nothing about ND filters. Amazing video!

[@philipbloom]

Thank you!

[@Zeyzift]

Great review as ever. Tired of my screw on ND’s so looking forward to using this product on my FX 3 cams. Yes I just purchased this product too 😃

[@Zeyzift]

Hi Philip, wondering if you can add the music credit to the other links you have here. I’m a fan of this version of funeral March of a marionette you used on this video. Thanks !

[@SpikeJackson]

Waking up on a Sunday morning and then realising that Phillip Bloom video has dropped, hey Phillip where you been!?!

[@dccoletrain]

I need to invest in some. Just bought an expensive super telephoto lens though…. Still hoping you release another Fujifilm video in the future. Love that shirt

[@peterkoomen1]

Great video again. Love the end. Too early for beer though.

[@LeeD345]

I’m not sure if you mentioned your cat channel before but oh boy I’m glad I saw it in this video and in the description right after ❤

[@philipbloom]

Thank you. I have many many many times over the last three years! 😂

[@DynamixWarePro]

Thanks for the useful information. I have tried a few different Variable NDs. The first one I tried was a BW XSPro Digital ND (I think that is what it was) with my GH5 and I noticed it had a slight green cast and slight softer image with some telephoto lenses I used. I had a SLR Magic Variable ND II. It has a polariser option and and If you unscrew the filter slightly from the lens, you can use the polariser. It has a slight warm colour cast and an ever so slight softer image and I didn't like it. From the variable NDs I have tried, one I use now is Nisi ND-VARIO filter Variable 1.5-5 and 5-9 stops filter. On my Panasonic S5II I shoot video in V-Log and I have only used the 77mm 1.5-5 stop filter and it works well with my Panasonic 14-28mm and Sigma 105mm f/2.8 DG DN lenses with a step up ring. I have not noticed vignetting or any real loss of sharpness, no real colour cast that I can see and it doesn't seem to have the X when stopped down all the way, although though I have not needed to stop it down all the way yet. I have used the Nisi 5-9 stops filter on my GH6 with Dynamic Range Boost ON in bright daylight as the 1.5-5 isn't dark enough and it may have caused the video to be ever so slightly softer. I say may have, the video didn't look that sharp but the lighting was usually too bright to test my brighter or no filter to compare), and when I took photos with it stopped down nearly all the way, I noticed an X in one photo. Since I now don't use the GH6 and use an S5II, I have so far, never needed to use the darker filter only the 1.5-5 stops filter.

[@philipbloom]

The NiSi is good, the downside is because it polarisers you need to be able to rotate it and you can’t.

[@philipbloom]

I’ve no idea how you’ve got an X as the hard stops prevent you getting close to the X.

[@winfilms3681]

wow, I'm surprised how bad the moment vnd was

[@philipbloom]

It’s fine for focal lengths up to about 85mm, but yeah I couldn’t believe how badly they fell apart with long lenses. Not a single review I watched said this either. 🤔

[@llIlllllIll]

​@@philipbloom that's the issue with most so called reviews. They get it sent by the company, make a video about how great it is after using it for 15 minutes. Then tell you YOU HAVE TO buy it. (from their affiliate link obviously) This is why your videos are so amazing. I don't think anyone else goes so in-depth, especially about stuff like video quality. I won't buy a drone before watching your video about it :)

[@DineshBhadwal]

What a beautiful and extensive scientific review! Great work. But, it also tells me how easy your life is if you have FX6 style internal NDs. The only other camera I can think of is the 6KPro.

[@philipbloom]

Thank you. I mostly use my mirrorless cameras. Loads of video cameras have internal NDs. Only 4 Sony cameras have electronic variable ND.

[@brettmoorefilms]

Another great informative video Mr. Bloom! Lots to think about here. I would love to see more shots with the Great Joy and Viltrox! Looking forward to what's coming next! Cheers

[@philipbloom]

Thank you! I hope I can, I had to give the Great Joy’s back but I still have the Viltrox. Annoying they can’t take anything other than matte boxes!

[@ThomasFransson]

Thanks, I might give Freewell a try for my vintage primes if they have smaller filters than 82mm Cheers!

[@philipbloom]

the filters are big as you can see, they have to be to take the drop in filters. They include step rings from 67mm upwards. Take a look at the NiSi True Color maybe, they are the only other dual linear ones that are any good and I think they do smaller ones...you can't rotate them though!

[@Tasmanian]

Subed cause no one in the 50 videos ive watched talk about vnd rotation.

[@PublicHerald]

Much love for doing this! Think it’s also important when no optical low pass in place like w/ S1 & GFX100s (finding this out the hard way on GFX100s footage)

[@philipbloom]

Really? What happens?

[@PublicHerald]

@@philipbloom Aliasing issues on lines in background & animal fur patterns. Heard that it wouldn’t be an issue cause of sensor size & fast readout but it’s there using Log to prores 422 NinjaV/HDR/709 on Mamiya lenses 45/150 & the 300 2.8 - footage is offline since it’s for an upcoming doc but I can dm it if you want to let us know what you think.

[@jimgun]

Great Video, i wish you had tested the Tilta VND that comes with their Mirage Matte Box alongside with the rest.

[@philipbloom]

I don't have one, and I can't buy one just to include it in a video. What types of polarisers is it using?

[@jimgun]

@@philipbloom It says that they use a new PL + CPL technology and it is a 1-9 stops vnd so at a point you have an x pattern but the convenience for a run & gun shoot can outweight the very slight green tint and colour shift i noticed, anyway i sound like an advertisement, i would have liked to hear your opinion.

[@chrisw443]

What a fun video, learned alot, and a cool new product to look at. Were those some shots of california in there with the ferris wheel?

[@philipbloom]

Thank you. Yes, Santa Monica

[@SilvaPereiraTiago]

Epic last shot!

[@philipbloom]

Glad someone appreciated it! I think I was playing chess on my phon which is why it took me so long to as ask her to move! 😂

[@lonceyscairns33]

Thanks for explaining and samples 😊❤

[@mgerrand]

Thanks Philip, great review as always, thanks for sharing your wisdom 🙌. Do you know if Freewell sytem has built in IR filtration? I’m looking for a no or little colour shift with IR filter 1-11 stops ideally, for RED komodo which has no IR filter, what do you think is the best option? Thanks

[@ameliesophieee4916]

dude you have the most peaceful calming voice I have ever heard. I could listen to this video for hours 🥲

[@tlight901]

Looks a nice bit of kit. I use the Nisi Tru Colour 1 - 5 stops, team it up with a fixed Hoya ProND if it's bright. Gives surprisingly clean results.

[@papsny]

I agree, the nisi tru color is great and has no colorcast

[@philipbloom]

@@papsny did either of you watch this video? Whilst it’s very good what is the fundamental problem with it?

[@philipbloom]

If NiSi could find a way to let you rotate the filter then they would be great. The problem I showed with linear polariser based VNDs is they might polarise at the strength you set it to and if you don’t want that, all you can do is change the strength or loosen it from the threads…

[@tlight901]

@@philipbloom As I said, the Freewell looks a very nice piece of kit, top notch in fact. Unfortunately, it wasn't around when I bought the Nisi and budget (her indoors 😂) won't allow for another one. 👍

[@mjolsztyn]

@@philipbloom i use that Kase magnetic step ring with Nisi and then you can rotate VND with them.

[@wildwoodweddingfilms]

I wish they had a matte box. I am looking at the Tilta mirage and now this system.

[@MarshallCant]

Brilliant (as usual!).

[@JeffCreates]

Never knew this about DSLRs and polarisers. The K2 does look like a great system, I've been using a previous Freewell for a while and have been very happy. What your tests prove quite clearly, is what I always suspected - the markup for the McKinnon name produces nothing extra in terms of product quality.

[@wholeinthesoul7925]

Top-tier, as always

[@jacenk]

great review once again sir

[@EverythingFilmmaking]

Love my Peter McKinnon Black Edition variable 3-6 stop..perfect for my 2.8 lenses.

[@philipbloom]

Never heard of that one. I expect it has all the same problems the others do. Does it have the green tint?

[@EverythingFilmmaking]

@@philipbloom It came out as a limited run with polar pro. I use to have the signature PM 2-5 stop.. I prefer the 3-6 range for my situation and what I film. I have not noticed any green tint

[@philipbloom]

@@EverythingFilmmakingnot sure how you’ve not noticed the green tint! I’ve been using them for years. I always have to colour correct it out. You will see in this video the tint. If you don’t believe me shoot a white wall with it on and off then tell me there’s no tiny!

[@EverythingFilmmaking]

@@philipbloom maybe cause I’ve never tested it like you🤣 I just film my stuff, and color grade in davinci.

[@philipbloom]

@@EverythingFilmmaking but you must see a difference with stuff shot with it on and off? Plus if you are grading in davinci can’t you see the green spike in the vectorcope?

[@PhillipSkraba]

Fantastic. I do really like how Fotga cuts down the digital sharpness, they may have gone a few steps too far though.

[@philipbloom]

I don’t think that was their goal!

[@philipbloom]

Please tell me you are being sarcastic!

[@PhillipSkraba]

@@philipbloom me, never! I think Fotga and Moment basically won the vhs look. Another tool in the shed? I have a few “mist” filters from Aliexpress that achieve a similar effect 😂

[@PhillipSkraba]

@@philipbloom on a more serious note, the K2 is excellent, wish it was a little more portable, but in terms of quality, love it.

[@ruisearts]

I’m gonna need to watch this three more times to understand all this information. I would also be very interested in knowing how this compares to the new Nisi system.

[@philipbloom]

The info is in there about the Nisi briefly.

[@perloid]

Excellent content as usual. Do you by any chance have any experience with the NiSi true color vary ND filter which suddenly lots of KZbinrs were praising suddenly around the same time?

[@philipbloom]

Thanks they are in this video…

[@DanFox]

Nicely done, man! I'm tempted to try the K2 for the ability to rotate polarization, but it just looks so unwieldy for the stuff I shoot. I actually have their first magnetic VND and hate how clunky and fiddly it is to switch out the bases, flip the filters around, etc. Comstantly dropping them, smudging them, and it's tedious lol - A system that was supposed to be easier to use, but more of a pain than anything else I had tried. Went back to good 'ol screw on VNDs and magnetic fixed NDs when I didn't need variable. But I had no idea about the CPL/LPL differences in VNDs. I just figured I was stuck with unwanted polarization at times. Thanks for demystifying!

[@NakeanWickliff]

So, in your opinion, should I just stick with screw on VND? I'm constantly fidling trying to take them off and on going from inside to outside and well lit rooms to dark ones with my run and gun on my ronin RS2 gimbal. The first magnetic version looked promising. But being told I don't need ANOTHER piece of gear would be welcome as well :)

[@DanFox]

@Nakean Wickliff personally, I ended up going with fixed magnetic ND filters from Maven filters. Great quality, great color accuracy performance and the magnetic aspect makes switching fast. So I just pack a regular screw on VND as a "just in case" and use the fixed NDs most of the time now.

[@Prince_Pig]

Exactly the video I was looking for. Good to see a filter video.

[@chrisburks7292]

Thanks for doing this video, I am now considering getting this filter set but just wish it went to a smaller filter thread so some of my smaller lenses could still be used. Looking forward to your Mavic 3 Pro review when you’ve finished it too!!!!

[@philipbloom]

Thank you. You can use them on smaller threads. They sell adaptors or just use a step ring. Just a warning these are big filters so might look a bit weird!

[@chrisburks7292]

@@philipbloom Thanks for that info and I really don't mind looking weird!

[@ianharper6015]

Thank you for a very interesting video.

[@snaprifice]

I'm really impressed by the freewell. I was considering PolarPro, but after this I think I'll go with freewell.

[@wholeinthesoul7925]

I hope you share your thoughts on the new V2, thanks

[@Siimkristjanpariis]

Thank you for review, lots of new information for me. I noticed NiSi swift system has an extra polarizer filter you could add to VND, which is bit confusing for me since its a 3rd layer of polarizer. I havent tried it yet but i wonder how bad the cross pattern effect would be.

[@philipbloom]

There is? Not that I can see for the VND kits. Perhaps it’s for when using fixed NDs.

[@philipbloom]

there's no way it will work as I've mentioned!

[@mkcreativemediaNYC]

Philip, where can I explore and read more about the add-on filters you're releasing (this year?). Based on my experience of following you and your channel for a few years now, I'm sure they will be of the highest quality! :-)

[@philipbloom]

Here when I announce them next month. 🙂

[@SonNguyenOfficialchannel]

next video, great joy anamorphics lens, thank you PB

[@jessejayphotography]

I think all this did was convince me even more I want internal ND in my next camera. If Sony were to bring their eND system to a smaller FX or mirrorless style body they would have a real advantage over any other camera system. I've been looking for the smallest ND + Grad ND combo and this K2 system looks pretty tidy.

[@philipbloom]

Yeah the problem is the internal variable ND needs space that a mirrorless doesn’t have. It has to slide the glass away or in.

[@jessejayphotography]

I wonder if they can just leave the eND in place over the sensor. It is using electrochromic glass of some kind so I guess it depends on how transparent the non-active state can be or develop a sensor with a higher base ISO to compensate.

[@CalienteCarlos305]

Great job Philip. Love the video. One quick question...for someone who owns the original K1 Filter System, is there a massive improvement/need to jump to the K2 system?

[@philipbloom]

Thank you. Is the K1 the original magnetic VND system I show in here?

[@CalienteCarlos305]

@@philipbloom I think so? I only called it K1 since this one is called K2. But yes, basically the version before this new one.

[@philipbloom]

@@CalienteCarlos305 it’s different…they both have their pros and cons. It doesn’t have the no colour shift but it also doesn’t polarise which you may or may not. It’s smaller that’s for sure and that’s important at times.

[@philipbloom]

Also the older system is called magnetic variable ND, not K1. The K2 is named after the mountain.

[@CalienteCarlos305]

@@philipbloom Gotcha. One more question...is it possible to use the Mist Diffusion Base from the Magnetic Variable ND system into the K2 System?

[@adventureproductionz]

wow you answered a lot of the questions i had

[@joyoffilming9500]

A a few months ago, I have banned all variable NDs from my bigger cameras and my iPhone, after finding out how much these negatively change the overall tonality of my footage. Especially, wide panning shots with deep blue skies regularly turned out as a nightmare during editing and color grading - now I know where these issues came from. Even further, I started to set all my cameras on auto-exposure mode A (aperture priority) for run & gun shooting, allowing the ISO to float within a certain range and letting the shutter angle freely float between 2 degrees and up to 300+ degrees (in very low light). Motion blur when shot at low shutter angles can be easily get fixed in post, though it may significantly slow down rendering. I am so overwhelmed with the colors and sharpness that I sometimes feel I am working with a new camera.

[@OfentseMwaseFilms]

Tiffen got the best variable ND i've ever used.

[@philipbloom]

Which one? Test it like I have. I’ve never had a good Tiffen VND. What others have you used?

[@OfentseMwaseFilms]

@@philipbloom I’ve shot a whole lot with this one amzn.to/43AJfQn. That’s the one I’ve used the past 2 years. I also use it on my single focus unit which spins the ND when I focus, doesn’t polarise the shot. Posted a video yesterday I shot with it, check it out kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4fch5ioZs57bZI.

[@landocycle]

Was that you shooting “the making of” Prehistoric Planet in Alberta?

[@randydean23]

Real quick_ was that the theme from Alfred Hitchcock's old TV show from back in the day at the beginning of your video here?? I have paused it to make this comment because of how much I liked that nod to Hitch. That is if I'm not going completely off my rocker and misheard it thereby conflating things. Gah, well cheers in either case.

[@olivieroconte2106]

The Toneh t-shirt will make Kasey go nuts 😂😂😂

[@shantanu.mp4]

This is an absolutely wonderful video, incredibly informative. I'd want to know a couple more things but it's hard to find this specific information everywhere. So maybe this will help others too: 1. The ability to turn the polarizer for the optimal angle; that's great and I think many people don't know that. But is that more prevalent when doing static shots? Is the effectiveness of that rendered useless when using a camera + a VND on a run and gun style set or style shooting? 2. If so, do you have recommendations for what type of VND's (specifically vnds) to use for what types of shooting? Is there a one size fits all? Is that the K2? Or Should people go with something like the Nisi for a smaller footprint, less things to fiddle with, but still great color accuracy? 3. Finally, and I dont know if you'd be able to answer this because they're relatively new, but where do the PolarPro Recon and Kolari Atlas Filters play into this realm? If you could answer these I think they'd be a huge help, maybe even a VND part 2 video? Either way, thank you for all the clear, digestable, and useful content you've always put out.

[@philipbloom]

Thank you. Basically there’s no perfect VND not even the K2. You have to choose which is right for you given the pros and cons of both main types. If you could rotate the NiSi it would be great…but you can’t. I’ve not used either of those ones you’ve mentioned.

[@shantanu.mp4]

@@philipbloom awesome! And the Nisi Does come with a NISI Swift kit if you did want to add a rotatable CPL! I'd also recommend trying out the Haida 2 in 1 CPL + VND Filter as it's the only filter I know of that's a 2 in 1 CPL VND in a small form factor screw on Cheers!

[@youngken_lakehousestudio8188]

Hi Philip, please what cine lens and brand would you recommend for someone who want to get their first cine lens?freely budget cine lens that is?lol thank you. Love your reviews.

[@philipbloom]

Hello. I can’t answer that without budget, camera, type of filming etc…

[@jackssketchbook]

If the Fx6 can compensate for colour shift in camera, couldn't manufacturers release a LUT with their filters to apply in post and adjust the strength of, to get rid of colour shifts?

[@philipbloom]

Because the FX6 compensation is constantly adjusting depending on the strength you use. I also showed you many examples and the reasons why the colour shift dual CPL VNDs is not consistent - light and angles.

[@PaulNewberyPhotography]

Well I learnt something today, I thought variable nds worked because of unicorn tears and magic. Now I know. thanks for another great video

[@Zeyzift]

Thanks!

[@blaspayri]

I am wondering if the freewell K2 is practical for gimbal use, as it is relatively large and adds over 150grams on the front of the lens.

[@philipbloom]

No reason why not. Depends on your set up.

[@JeremiahBostwick]

Mr Bloom, which VND would you say is the "second best" or "runner up" after the Freewell? I'm mostly turned off by the Freewell size and price. I recognize the other ones will have the issues with not being able to align the polarizers like the K2, but "if you had to make that compromise", which would you pick? Would it still be the Freewell Split Range system as mentioned near the end of the video?

[@philipbloom]

Check out the new Freewell one that’s up from grabs in my Movember fundraiser! It’s like this but just a VND. gopb.co/mo2023

[@peoplevrobot]

Really interesting video. Given the numerous issues with Variable NDs, I am thinking it might be better (optically) and more efficient (workflow) to just use fixed NDs. That is unless you need to film in different lighting conditions within a short space of time and can't be swapping filters. Does that logic make sense? or have I missed something?

[@philipbloom]

The opening of the video states much of this. But the K2 solves this.

[@patlealfilm]

It's a shame though that the original freewell magnetic variable nds have a noticeable difference in color shift compared to the bulky freewell k2s which I have... I like them but they are kinda awkard and you can't attach a matte boxx to em. They developed the eiger system but that uses the older freewell magnetic variable nds which are not the same as the freewell k2's which have a beautiful true color look@@philipbloom

[@stevenkralovec]

Would custom white balance with a gray card AFTER attaching a VND fix the color shift issues, or would it still cause some shift issues and still complicate the color correction process?

[@philipbloom]

Didn’t I show that the colour shift changes depending on the angle and/ or amount of strength?

[@Mr.Zen_73]

love the Toneh t shirt!!! ha ha

[@MattParson]

Thumbnail looks like the old Century Optics Fisheye lens at first glance… I thought Mr. Bloom started filming skate videos.

[@marclabro]

nice presentation. if we don't use the rectangular gradient plates, would you recommend the new K2, huge, or the previous magnetic type you used for years ? happy to see you now use a7rv. I would be very happy to see new video tutos/master classes about that camera, as you did with parts 1 and 2 (ael af/mf hold still unclear for me when we start from mf or af-c state because sometimes you press and other time you must release ael ; seems shutter speed button is by default a focus hold button in movie button video mode)

[@philipbloom]

Thanks. Make sure you watch the sum up of the video as it answers your question.

[@marclabro]

doing my best, I am belgian (french) 🤣

[@philipbloom]

@@marclabro the older set are dual CPL based, using them again after using the K2 and the colour shift stands out like it didn't before! they are still very good but strangely more expensive!

[@tenfoldsupplyco5041]

Looks good, But only goes up to 82mm... what am I gonna put on my 85mm 105mm primes? They're 86mm and 105mm filter sizes haha.

[@marclabro]

haha you are right. just looking the sony 200-600mm and, for video, we would need a 95mm vnd !

[@alienwisconsin]

This was very helpful. I wish the product was for sale and not some indie go go crap, you never know if you are going to get it or when.

[@philipbloom]

dont worry about Indiegogo here. Many established companies like Freewell, Peak Design etc, use Indiegogo for these things as it gets them way more publicity. They are already shipping these to customers now. The ones to be wary of are first-time companies making products they have no history with.

[@Chakamana]

Как всегда круто👍

[@Giiiiiiiooooooooo]

I don’t care how right or wrong you are about these ND filters. You put a cat in your video; you sir are correct!

[@mdhazeldine]

I own the H&Y Revoring for photography use (to get motion blur during the day, and as a polariser) and I've found it to be OK, but I get vignetting in the corners at wider focal lengths and I have had one or two shots ruined by the cross polarisation effect, so I've kind of avoided using it. I was hoping you'd make some comments or show some comparisons with that in this video because I know you've reviewed it before. How do you think the Revoring compares to the K2 system? Is the K2 dramatically better or is it a pretty close call?

[@philipbloom]

This is a sponsored video for Freewell so obviously it’s not the place for that is it? This isn’t a shootout. Although it does pop up in a couple it tests. What do you want to know specifically?

[@philipbloom]

The Revoring VND is CPL/ LPL. It has a fixed colour cast but also polarisers. The good thing about it is your can change that polarisation but it’s damn fiddly to do. They also need to have hard stops on it as like all VNDs 3 stops is as much as you should use. I think they make a magnetic snap on fixed ND, but not sure. Then you can add that for stronger strengths…but yeah, they shouldn’t have attempted to make it cover than big range. All VNDs have the same problem wiping hard stops, like I showed with the K2 with the front filter reversed, but at least trust doesn’t have the X pattern.

[@mdhazeldine]

@@philipbloom Thanks for the detailed reply! Are there versions of the K2 that can work on really wide angle lenses? My Revoring has trouble with my 18-35 Nikon lens at the wider focal lengths (it vignettes).

[@philipbloom]

@@mdhazeldine there's only one K2. I was using it with the my Sony 16-35mm a lot in this video.