Benro’s Auto-Adjusting ND Filter: Smart Light Control
▼ Summary
– Benro has launched the NE1, an electronic neutral density filter system that adjusts from ND3 to ND64 without requiring physical rotation.
– The filter features automatic exposure adjustment via an optical sensor and can be controlled manually or remotely via Bluetooth.
– It is designed to simplify tasks like timelapse photography and videography by maintaining optimal exposure in changing light without manual input.
– The product uses multi-layered coated glass for accurate color and includes a spring-loaded holder compatible with lenses from 67mm to 82mm.
– While its launch date and price are currently undisclosed, the NE1 distinguishes itself through its automatic adjustment and accessible design.
For photographers and videographers seeking seamless exposure control, Benro has introduced a groundbreaking tool: the NE1 electronic neutral density filter system. This innovative device allows users to electronically adjust the filter’s strength from approximately ND3 to ND64, all without the need to physically rotate the filter. It promises to simplify complex shooting scenarios, from landscape photography to cinematic video production, by offering precise light management directly at the lens.
The company is positioning the NE1 as a significant leap beyond traditional variable ND filters. The core innovation lies in its automatic exposure functionality, powered by an integrated optical sensor. This sensor continuously reads the ambient light and adjusts the ND density in real-time to maintain a balanced exposure as conditions shift. This feature is particularly valuable for creating smooth timelapse sequences without flicker and for maintaining consistent exposure in unpredictable lighting.
Beyond automation, the filter also provides full manual control. Users can fine-tune settings either directly on the filter or remotely via a dedicated Bluetooth remote. This dual functionality caters to both run-and-gun videographers who need hands-free operation and photographers who demand exact creative control for long-exposure shots.
While electronic ND technology exists in some high-end cinema cameras and specialized systems, Benro aims to make it more accessible. The NE1 distinguishes itself with a broader adjustable range and a user-friendly design that integrates into existing camera kits. Its construction utilizes multi-layered Corning optical glass with advanced nano-coatings, which Benro states ensures accurate color reproduction without introducing unwanted color casts or flare.
Another practical advantage is the filter’s versatile mounting system. It features a patented spring-loaded holder that accommodates lens thread sizes from 67mm to 82mm. This design eliminates the need for photographers to purchase multiple filters for different lenses, covering a wide range of popular optics in a single unit.
For videographers, the benefits are substantial. A variable ND filter is essential for achieving the cinematic 180-degree shutter angle, especially when shooting at wide apertures for shallow depth of field. The NE1’s ability to adjust density automatically while recording removes the disruptive need to stop and manually tweak a traditional variable ND filter, enabling smoother workflow and more consistent footage.
Specific details regarding the official launch date and pricing are still forthcoming. Interested users can register for updates on Benro’s official website. As more information becomes available, the photography community will be watching closely to see how this smart filter performs in real-world use, potentially changing how creators manage light.
(Source: PetaPixel)
