Kenko Tokina announced the upcoming release of the variable ND filter, Variable ND-W, on October 25th. The Variable ND-W is a variable ND filter that allows you to adjust the amount of light reduction by rotating the front frame. This filter is essential for controlling exposure when shooting video with a single-lens reflex camera, and can also be used for slow shutter shooting of still images.
Kenko Tokina Variable ND-W Features
X-ray unevenness is less likely to occur even at wide angles
The unique manufacturing process of the Kenko Tokina Variable ND-W minimizes “X-unevenness” and expands the usable range on the wide-angle side, which was previously an issue with variable ND filters.
At a wide angle of 24mm, it can be used from ND2.5 to ND128.
- What is “X-mura”?
Due to the mechanism behind variable ND filters, X-shaped mura can occur when the density is increased. The shorter the focal length of the lens used, the more likely this phenomenon is to occur.
Light reduction is expressed in f-stops
The frame is marked with the aperture stop number, which is an indication of the amount of light reduction, so you can quickly set it to the required ND density.
The numbers and ND concentrations listed are 2 (ND4)/3 (ND8)/4 (ND16)/5 (ND32)/6 (ND64)/7 (ND128).
*The markings on the frame are approximate. Due to the structure, there may be slight errors in the position of the numbers indicating min and MAX, and the amount of light reduction, and the filter effect.
Movable range 90°, with removable lever
A convenient lever for video shooting is included. The movable range of the rotating frame is 90° from minimum (min) to maximum (MAX) density, allowing for smooth shooting. There are two positions to attach the lever, so it can be set to a position that is easy to operate. Two levers are included, including a spare.
Low reflection “Digital Multi-Coating II”
It uses low-reflection Digital Multi-Coating II (surface reflection 0.6 to 1%) to reduce unnecessary flare and ghosting.
Water and oil repellent coating
The water- and oil-repellent coating makes it difficult for water droplets and dirt to adhere, and even if it does get dirty, it can be easily wiped off.
Uses a polarizing film with minimal color cast
Many commercially available ND filters that are variable from the ND2 equivalent are said to have a slight yellowish tint, but the Variable ND-W uses a polarizing film with little color cast, similar to the Variable NDXII.
Designed to eliminate polarization effects
The polarizing film used in variable ND filters has a polarizing effect. When changing the ND density, there is a problem that the surface reflection of the subject may disappear or increase unintentionally, but the Variable ND-W is designed to prevent this polarizing effect.
Main Specifications
- Digital Multi Coat II
- Water and oil repellent coating
- The amount of light reduction is indicated in stops on the frame.
- Cap can be attached with front screw
Usage notes
- When the density is close to MAX, X-shaped unevenness may appear on the screen, or the image may take on a reddish or bluish tint, so care must be taken when adjusting the density. The shorter the focal length, the greater the effect.
- Exposure compensation may be required to get the correct brightness.
- Please check the exposure value displayed on the camera for the amount of light reduction. The amount of light reduction on the min side of the variable ND filter changes gradually, but drops sharply near the MAX setting.
- When shooting with a slow shutter speed using a single-lens reflex camera, the effect of back-entering light from the viewfinder occurs. We recommend blocking the light from the viewfinder using an eyepiece shutter, etc.
- This product uses a polarizing film, which deteriorates due to heat and ultraviolet rays. It is recommended that you replace the film every 7 years.
- Not suitable for solar photography.
