Neutral density camera filter Hoya 0686 55 mm

The Hoya 0686 55 mm neutral density camera filter reduces the amount of visible light entering the lens to enable greater exposure control and creative effects. Made by Hoya, this Multi-Coated ND filter is suitable for both amateur and professional photographers and features coatings on both surfaces to suppress reflections and increase light transmission. It reduces light by 9 stops, allowing safe photography of very bright sources and enabling very slow shutter speeds in daylight.

Advantages

The filter’s dual-side multi-coating lowers reflections and improves contrast while maintaining accurate colour rendition. With a 55 mm thread size and a slim profile, it fits lenses with 55 mm filter threads without causing vignetting on most setups. The 9-stop light reduction permits wide apertures or long exposures in bright conditions and makes photographing solar eclipses or other extremely bright scenes safer when used correctly.

Suitable for

• Portrait photography requiring shallow depth of field in bright light
• Long-exposure daytime landscapes and seascapes
• Capturing motion blur (waterfalls, clouds, moving crowds)
• Photographing very bright light sources or solar eclipses with proper precautions

Key specifications

• Brand: Hoya
• Model: 0686
• Thread size: 55 mm
• Type: Neutral Density (ND) filter
• Light reduction: 9 stops
• Coating: Multi-coated (both surfaces)
• Colour: Black
• Pack: Single
• MPN/EAN: 0024066018076 / 024066018076

How to use

Screw the 55 mm ND filter onto the front of a lens with a matching thread. Meter exposure with the filter in place or calculate the 9-stop exposure change and adjust aperture and shutter speed accordingly. Use the filter to open the aperture for shallower depth of field in bright light or to slow the shutter speed for motion blur effects. When photographing very bright sources such as solar eclipses, confirm the filter is secure and rated for the intended use before framing and shooting.

Usage recommendations

Do not attempt to view the sun through the lens or viewfinder even with a filter unless you are certain the filter is specifically rated and undamaged; incorrect use can cause permanent eye or camera sensor damage. Store the filter in its case when not in use and clean with a soft brush and microfiber cloth to maintain the multi-coating performance.