B+W 106 Gray filter ND 1.8 (E/F-Pro)

Neutral Density Filter – Get Creative with Less Light

Neutral density filters, also known as ND filters, block the entire visible spectrum evenly, resulting in a reduction of light without affecting colors and contrast. Since they also block UV radiation, there is no need for an additional UV filter. Additionally, to reduce depth of field – especially at wide apertures – a neutral density filter is often required. However, the effectiveness of this application depends on the focal length of the lens. They also allow for "normal" shutter speeds and aperture settings when the film sensitivity is too high for the prevailing brightness.

Neutral Density Filter:
Filter Factor: 64
Stops: 6
Density (ND): 1.8

B+W Neutral Density Filter 106:

This B+W neutral density filter, which reduces light by six stops, is considered an extreme filter in pictorial photography. It allows for an exposure time of one second from 1/60 s without changing the aperture (and depth of field), necessitating the use of a tripod. Flowing water appears smooth in the photo, and moving people on streets and squares blur into indistinctness or become invisible. Due to higher transmission in the red spectrum starting at 660 nm, a slight warm tone may appear in color images. If this is bothersome, a B+W UV/IR interference filter 486 placed in front of the neutral density filter (not behind!) can help.