Photography can be a delicate balancing act. Getting the perfect shot can be tricky with so many variables to juggle. It’s always helpful to have more tools and options to manipulate the transfer of light into your camera body. For a 37mm lens, one such tool is the 37mm ND filter.
ND stands for neutral density. A neutral density filter reduces the amount of light entering the lens without altering the hue. This grants the photographer a great deal of flexibility in adjusting settings for shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. This is particularly useful in high light environments. For example, a neutral density filter could allow you to shoot at a lower shutter speed on a sunny day outdoors without overexposing your photos.
Altura Photo offers a 3-piece set of neutral density filters. In addition to ND2, ND4, and ND8 filters, the set also comes with a carrying case and MagicFiber microfiber cleaning cloth. All of these filters are double threaded, enabling additional accessories, such as lens hoods, to be mounted on top of them.
For even more flexibility, Polaroid offers an adjustable 37mm ND filter. The Polaroid Optics 37mm HD multi-coated variable range fader filter has settings of ND3, ND6, ND9, ND16, and ND400, all in one accessory. To switch between densities, simply turn the exterior ring to the desired setting.
Both of these products are compatible with a wide variety of camera brands, including Cannon, Nikon, Sony, and Panasonic. In fact, they will fit any camera as long as it has a 37mm lens, as the threading is standardized industry wide.
Due to the nature of shutter speeds, ND filters are primarily useful for still photography. However, many DSLR videographers opt to use them when making the stylistic choice of using a shallow depth of field.
The 37mm ND filter offers flexibility and convenience. Don’t compromise your style by using undesirable settings to get proper exposure. Keep your options open with a quality ND filter. It’s for good reason that every seasoned photographer keeps a few in their bag.