Neutral density camera filter Calumet CALSAN0852, 52 mm, single-pack

Calumet CALSAN0852 is a 52 mm neutral density (ND) camera filter supplied as a single pack. Designed with a slim black frame and optical glass treated with 28 multi-layer coatings, this ND filter reduces the amount of light reaching the sensor to enable longer exposures and wider apertures in bright conditions. It preserves image quality while allowing creative control over motion blur and depth of field.

Advantages

The 28-layer multi-coating improves light transmission and minimizes internal reflections, flare and ghosting while offering surface protection against water and scratches. The ultra-slim frame reduces the risk of vignetting on wide-angle lenses. By reducing incoming light without altering colour balance, the filter allows consistent exposure control and maintains sharpness across the image.

Suitable for

• Landscape photography — creating long-exposure effects such as smooth water and motion blur in clouds
• Portraiture in bright light — using wider apertures to achieve shallow depth of field and pleasing bokeh
• Architecture and urban scenes — enabling long exposures to reduce or blur moving elements
• Video production — keeping correct shutter speeds and aperture settings in bright conditions for natural motion rendering

Key specifications

• Filter type: neutral density (ND)
• Effective density: ND8 (reduces light by 3 stops)
• Mount diameter: 52 mm
• Frame: ultra-slim black frame designed to minimize vignetting
• Optical surface: multi-coated glass (28 coating layers) for reduced reflections and improved durability
• Surface treatments: water-repellent and scratch-resistant coatings
• Package contents: single filter in one pack

How to use

Screw the 52 mm Calumet ND filter securely onto the front thread of a compatible lens and check for any vignetting when using wide-angle focal lengths. Meter exposure after fitting the filter and adjust shutter speed or ISO to compensate for the reduced light; for this ND8 filter, increase exposure by approximately three stops. When composing long exposures, use a tripod to avoid camera shake and a remote release or timer to reduce vibration. Clean the filter surface with a soft microfiber cloth and appropriate optical cleaner to preserve the coatings.

Usage recommendations

For best results, combine the ND8 Calumet filter with a stable tripod and mirror lock-up or electronic first-curtain shutter when available. Avoid forceful wiping to preserve the multi-layer coatings; remove dust with a blower before gentle cleaning. When shooting landscapes or architecture with wide-angle lenses, verify there is no vignetting and consider pairing with a lens hood to reduce stray light.