Glimmerglass 1 is a Tiffen soft-diffusion filter that subtly reduces skin blemishes and adds a gentle glow with minimal image softening.
Technical Details
The Glimmerglass 1 is made of high-quality Schott glass with a thickness of 2mm, into which glimmer particles with an average size of 50-80 micrometers are embedded. Light diffusion primarily occurs at an angle of 2-4 degrees around bright light sources. The filter features a multi-layer anti-reflection coating and reduces transmission by only 1/6 stop. Available in sizes 138mm (round filter), 4x5.65", 6.6x6.6" for matte box systems, and as drop-in filters for special lens systems.
History & Development
Tiffen developed the Glimmerglass filter in 1979 in response to the demand for more subtle diffusion effects than the then-common Vaseline-on-glass techniques. Its first cinematic application was in 1980 for the television series "Dallas" by cinematographer Edward R. Brown. In 1985, Tiffen expanded the series with strengths 2-5, while the Glimmerglass 1 became a standard tool for portraiture in Hollywood. The modern version from 2018 utilizes more precise particle distribution techniques and a waterproof mount.
Practical Use in Film
Roger Deakins used Glimmerglass 1 filters for the candlelight scenes in "Barry Lyndon" (1975, reshoots 1981), achieving the characteristic warm glow without over-diffusion. In "Blade Runner 2049" (2017), the filter was used selectively for Rachel flashbacks to create a nostalgic mood. The typical workflow involves using it with frontal lighting and backlight shots, especially with focal lengths from 85mm for portraits. Disadvantage: Undesired streaks can occur with strong backlight.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike the Pro-Mist 1/4, which causes uniform shadow brightening, the Glimmerglass 1 focuses on point-source light diffusion. The Black Pro-Mist offers similar diffusion but with greater contrast reduction (20-25%). Modern digital alternatives like the Schneider True-Cut 680 IR achieve comparable optical properties but cost 40% more. With LED lighting below 3200K, the Glimmerglass 1 shows optimal effect, while for daylight, the Glimmerglass 2 is preferred.