Hoya SOLAS 77mm Variable Neutral Density Filter, 1.3-stops to 8.7-stops

Variable Neutral density filters are a convenient tool for filmmakers and photographers because they reduce the need to carry multiple ND filters and they allow you to precisely control the amount of light by 10ths-of-a-stop by rotating the outer ring to adjust exposure. For filmmakers, this means shutter speeds that match your frame-rate while maintaining the depth-of-field you want. For photographers, it means you can reach longer exposures or achieve a shallow depth-of-field in bright sunlight.The downside to most Variable ND (Fader) filters is unpredictable "Color Shift", loss of sharpness and glare. These deficiencies are caused by low quality glass, bad multi-coating technology, cheap polarizing films and poor manufacturing QC. The result is an inexpensive but image degrading product.The Hoya SOLAS Variable NDX filter solves these problems by using only the latest technology, premium materials, the best Japanese manufacturing know-how and attacking "color shift" with an exclusive "Depolarization" layer baked into the optical formula. The result: a filter that maintains consistent color from 1.3-stops to 8.7-stops. Filmmakers can now tweak density as the light changes without fear of a color grading nightmare in post. Photographers can focus, compose and set WB at 1.3-stops then adjust density as much as 8.7 stops without having to change filters.And Yes, you can use your original lens cap and most manufactures' lens hoods. The lightweight aluminum filter frame sports front filter threads so you can attach lens caps but more importantly additional filters when additional density or other special effects are needed.The filter is only available in 77mm and 82mm because they allow for the greatest amount of precise density control. The "throw" or rotation is greater than smaller filters so it is much easier to achieve an exact density. The filter will also work perfectly on lenses with smaller filter threads by using an inexpensive Step-up ring (sold separately).