Neutral density camera filter B+W 803 MASTER, 49 mm, MRC coating

The B+W 803 MASTER neutral density camera filter, 49 mm with Multi Resistant Coating (MRC), reduces incoming light by three f-stops to allow longer exposures or larger apertures in bright conditions. Constructed from finely ground and polished special optical glass, the filter maintains lens resolution and delivers color-neutral attenuation across the visible spectrum. A multi-layer anti-reflective system on both sides minimizes reflections, and a final dirt- and water-repellent outer layer improves durability and ease of cleaning.

Advantages

This B+W 803 MASTER ND filter provides consistent and uniform light reduction of 3 stops while preserving color fidelity and sharpness. The high-quality optical glass minimizes image degradation, and the multi-layer MRC coating reduces reflections and ghosting for improved contrast. The protective outer layer resists dirt and water, simplifying maintenance and ensuring long-term performance. The slim construction supports use with wide-angle lenses while avoiding vignetting in many setups.

Suitable for

• Landscape photography for long exposures of water and clouds
• Portrait photography when a wider aperture and shallow depth of field is desired in bright light
• Video production where aperture cannot be reduced and specific shutter characteristics are required
• Creative long-exposure effects such as motion blur, wipe effects, and continuous light trails

Key specifications

• Filter type: Neutral density (ND) with 3-stop attenuation
• Thread diameter: 49 mm
• Optical material: finely ground, polished special glass
• Coating: Multi Resistant Coating (multi-layer anti-reflective) on both sides
• Number of anti-reflective layers per side: 7
• Outer layer: dirt- and water-repellent finish
• Effect on image: uniform, color-neutral light reduction across visible spectrum
• Suitable for: digital and analog cameras, compatible with wide-angle and standard lenses (depending on adapter/stacking)

How to use

Screw the 49 mm B+W 803 MASTER ND filter onto a lens with a matching thread or mount it via an adapter. Use the filter when you need to reduce exposure by approximately three f-stops to enable longer shutter speeds or larger apertures in bright lighting. For long-exposure landscape shots, compose and focus before attaching the filter if necessary, then switch to manual focus to avoid focus hunting. In video work, set the desired shutter angle or shutter speed and attach the filter to achieve the intended exposure and motion rendering. Clean the outer layer with a soft microfiber cloth and an appropriate lens cleaner to maintain optical quality.

Usage recommendations

For best results, meter exposure with the filter attached or perform a test exposure and adjust shutter speed or ISO accordingly. When using wide-angle lenses, check for vignetting if additional filters or adapters are stacked. Store the filter in a protective case when not in use to preserve the coating and glass quality.