Breakthrough Filters - Magnetic Filter System

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For the last week, I have been testing the Breakthrough Filters Magnetic Filter System.  The system uses magnets to attach filters that sit on the end of your lens. The magnetic system means no screwing on and off of filters and no getting filters stuck on adapter rings or on the end of your lens.  You do need to screw on the Magnetic filter holder.

Pros of Breakthrough Filters Magnetic Filter System:

  • Fastest on/off of any filter system

  • Mount securely but remove easily

  • Low profile

  • Sharp/Extremely high quality

  • No color cast

Cons of Breakthrough Filters Magnetic Filter System:

  • Not easily stackable*

  • Cannot use with a lens hood

*Breakthrough Photography solution to the stackable issue - they sell filters that combine two functions - Their Dark CPL filters combine a circular polarizer with a 3 or 6 stop ND. Alternatively, you have the option of buying an additional filter holder that allows you to use add-on square filters.

BreakthroughFiltersMagnetic

BreakthroughFiltersMagnetic

Alternative:

Manfrotto offers a similar system that allows you to bring your own filters - they sell you a holder and adapters for your filter. I hope to bring you a hands-on review soon but if you already have existing filters the cost is much cheaper.

Learn More

Hands-on Nisi Filter System for Long Exposures

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIJnUuIhy-wI have used the Nisi Filter System for over a year now and think this is the best system out there.To start you pick up the V5 Pro kit for $180 - I recommend you purchase from B&H PhotoNisi Filters V5 Pro This includes a nice protective case, high-quality circular polarizer that is integrated into the 82mm ring, the filter holder and adapter rings (that allow the holder to be used with lenses that have 67mm, 72mm, or 77mm front filter threads. Additional rings are available for purchase)I recommend you add:

The 6 stop allows you to easily do long exposures in cloudy conditions or near sunrise/sunset. If you want to achieve long exposures in bright conditions pick up the Nano IRND 3.0 Filter (10 Stop) [Buy from B&H Photo]  The Nisi V5 Pro holder is their latest edition and it's improved over the original. Earlier models were very difficult to slide the glass plates in/out of and this updated version is much better while still holding them securely in place.Advantages of Nisi over LeeThe NISI system comes in a nice leather carrying case everything is protected and a silent soft magnetic latch makes it easy to access. Downside - it is a little bulkyNisi offers an integrated circular polarizer often times when I'm using these filters I'm photographing water and I do want to use a circular polarizer to control or cut the amount of Reflections and it's so easy to rotate with little dials on the edge of the filter holder.The Nisi system comes with a variety of adapters that allow you to use it with lenses- 67mm, 72mm, 77mm, and 82mm Adapter Rings. Additional adapter rings are available for purchase. Quality - Extremely sharp and no color casts. I found the Lee system to have strong cool or blue color casts in their stronger ND filters. Why do I recommend the NISI system over stacking several circular filters?

  • Flexibility- this system allows me to use graduated filters AND circular polarizers together and easily.
  • no vignetting even on my widest lenses.