I’ll Never Film Video Without An ND Filter Again

🎬 Why do so many filmmakers and video creators swear by Variable ND filters? In this video, I break down what makes a Variable ND filter an essential tool for video—especially if you shoot outdoors or want that cinematic look.

Learn how ND filters help you:

Control exposure in bright light
Maintain correct shutter speed for natural motion blur
Shoot wide open for shallow depth of field
Instantly adapt to changing lighting conditions

Whether you're just starting out or building your video gear setup, this is the one filter that can instantly improve your footage. I’m using the K&F Concept VND filter (1–5 stops) for this video, but the concepts apply no matter what gear you use.

📌 No technical jargon—just real-world use and tips that make a difference.

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🟢 5 VND Filters Under $100 (Great for Beginners/Budget Builds):

-K&F Concept Variable ND Filter (1–9 stops)
Approx. $50–70
Lightweight, decent build, solid for beginners
Good for general use

-Freewell Standard Day VND (2–5 stops)
Approx. $99
Very sharp for the price, includes hard stops
Minimal color cast and decent flare resistance

-Gobe (now Urth) Variable ND 2–400
Approx. $70
Eco-friendly brand, multi-coated, decent for casual use
Can show some color shift at extremes

-Neewer Variable ND Filter (ND2 to ND400)
Approx. $30–50
Budget pick, but soft image quality at high stops
Good for learning or casual use, but not pro-level

-PolarPro LiteChaser Pro VND (for phones)
Approx. $99
Designed for mobile shooters using a case mount
Pro-level mobile content creation filter

🔴 5 Higher-End VND Filters (Over $100, More Professional):
-PolarPro Peter McKinnon Edition II VND (2–5 or 6–9 stops)
Approx. $250–300
Best-in-class build, color neutrality, hard stops
Designed for filmmakers—premium glass

-Freewell Magnetic VND System (2–5 & 6–9 stops)
Approx. $180–230 (includes filter set and magnetic mount)
Sharp optics, quick swap design, zero vignetting on most lenses

-Tiffen Variable ND Filter (2–8 stops)
Approx. $130–160
Trusted brand, decent color consistency, good build
Known for cine-quality filters

-NiSi Variable ND (1.5–5 stops or 5–9 stops)
Approx. $130–160
Low color shift, minimal X-pattern, nano-coated
Strong build and clarity, great for hybrid shooters

-B+W XS-Pro Digital Vario ND
Approx. $180–250
German glass, superior optical clarity, minimal color cast
Great for photo and video work

00:00 Intro
00:15 180 Rule
00:40 F-Stop
01:02 No Changing Of Filters
01:25 Problems With Budget Options
02:44 Professional Options But At A High Cost
03:32 Outro
04:09 ???