Camera filter Hoya Variable Density 5.8 cm variable density neutral gray filter

Hoya Variable Density 5.8 cm variable density neutral gray filter provides adjustable light reduction for photographic and video applications. The filter is a variable neutral density (ND) type that uses two polarizing layers to control transmitted light between minimum and maximum settings without altering color balance. Its black metal frame fits lenses with a 5.8 cm (58 mm) thread and is supplied as a single-piece pack for convenient mounting and adjustment.

Advantages

The variable design delivers continuous control from approximately 1.5 stops (passing about 1/3 of incident light) up to about 9 stops (passing about 1/400 of incident light), enabling both subtle and extreme exposure reduction. High-quality optical glass from the manufacturer provides clear image rendering and maintains color neutrality across the adjustment range. The rotating ring allows smooth, stepless adjustment between “Min” and “Max” positions, so you can dial in the exact light reduction required for long exposures, wide-aperture shooting in bright light, or creative motion blur effects.

Suitable for

• Long exposure photography of water, clouds, or moving subjects
• Using fast lenses wide open in bright daylight to achieve shallow depth of field
• Creative control of motion blur in street, landscape, or architectural photography
• Video production requiring controlled exposure and consistent color balance

Key specifications

• Filter type: Variable neutral density (adjustable ND)
• Effective density range: ~1.5 stops to ~9 stops
• Light transmission at minimum: ~33% (≈1/3 of incident light)
• Light transmission at maximum: ~0.25% (≈1/400 of incident light)
• Mount diameter: 58 mm (5.8 cm) thread
• Construction: Two polarizing layers in a rotating frame; black finish
• Glass: High-quality optical glass from Hoya Corporation

How to use

Screw the filter onto the 58 mm front thread of your lens until secure. Compose and focus the scene without the filter if possible, then attach the filter and rotate the outer ring between the “Min” and “Max” markings to reach the desired exposure reduction. When using large aperture settings or long shutter speeds, monitor exposure with camera metering or a light meter and adjust ISO, aperture, or shutter speed as needed. For very slow shutter speeds or precise composition, mount the camera on a tripod to avoid camera shake.

Usage recommendations

For best results with slow shutter speeds, use a tripod and remote release or self-timer. Avoid stacking multiple polarizing or variable filters, as this can create uneven darkening or cross-polarization artifacts. Check the edges of the frame for vignetting when using wide-angle lenses and adjust composition or use a smaller effective density if necessary.