Neutral Density filter with optical density 1.2, reducing light by four stops (ND16), standard for bright daylight with wide apertures and professional motion control.
Optical Density and Aperture Value
The ND 1.2 filter (also known as ND16) has an optical density of 1.2 and reduces incoming light by four stops. This means the amount of light is reduced to one-sixteenth.
The ND16 designation system indicates: ND16 means light is divided by 16. This corresponds to a reduction of 4 stops (4 x halving = 1/16).
Typical Applications
Bright Daylight with Wide Aperture
The ND 1.2 is ideal for bright sunlight when you want to shoot with apertures between f/2.8 and f/4. With a four-stop reduction, you can still use these preferred aperture openings under the most intense sunlight.
Professional Film Production
The ND 1.2 is the most commonly used ND filter in professional cinematography. Many DoPs consider it a standard filter for exterior shots.
Combination with Other Filters
The ND 1.2 can be combined with ND 0.3, ND 0.6, or ND 0.9 to handle even darker scenes or to switch to weaker filters conversely.
Difference to Variable ND Filters
Variable ND filters can cover the ND 1.2 range but have:
- Polarization Effects: Color casts can occur with digital cameras
- Uneven Attenuation: Not all image points are darkened equally
- Higher Cost: Variable filters often cost more than multiple fixed filters
- Complexity: An incorrect setting can lead to exposure errors
The fixed ND 1.2 is precise, reproducible, and color-neutral.
Relation to the 180-Degree Shutter Rule
The ND 1.2 is the ideal partner for the 180-degree shutter rule. In bright daylight (10,000-50,000 Lux) with:
- ISO 200
- f/2.8
- 1/50 second (180 degrees at 25p)
...the ND 1.2 is often the exact solution. It reduces the available light by exactly four stops, bringing you into the perfect exposure range.
Practical Use Cases
Scenario 1: Bright Sunny Day
- Light: 50,000 Lux
- Desired: f/2.8, 1/50 second, ISO 200
- Without Filter: f/16 or ISO 50 needed
- With ND 1.2: Perfect at f/2.8
Scenario 2: Preserving Motion Blur
- You need to adhere to the 180-degree shutter rule
- You want a wide aperture for background blur
- ND 1.2 is often the exact solution
Specifications
- Optical Density: 1.2
- Light Loss: 4 stops
- Multiplier: ND16
- Typical Transmission Rate: 6.25%
- Application Range: Bright to very bright daylight
- Standard Format: Matte Box 4x4", Screw-On 77mm-95mm
Practical Application Examples
- Cinema Productions: Standard filter for exterior scenes
- Documentary Film: Reliable in variable weather
- Commercials: Consistent look across multiple takes
- Interview Sets: Wide aperture for background-blurred images
- Nature Shots: Motion blur for vibrant water surfaces/movements