Over a decade ago when I first started photography, there weren’t many filter manufacturers. In recent years, we’ve seen a number of new filter manufacturers appear and this has been great for competition. Competition can be great for an industry because it helps to push technology and innovation. NiSi has been one of those companies that prides itself in developing the absolute best when it comes to filter systems for photographers.
For many years, filters were not something I even considered for my own photography. For a long time I struggled to get the results I really wanted. Pleasing reflections in calm waters, long exposed cloud movements and that vibrant punch of blue in the sky that can only be obtained using a polarizing filter. For those reasons and several more, I decided to purchase a set of filters.
My first filter set purchase can be aptly described as a mistake. The color cast and loss of sharpness had a very negative impact on my photography. The amount of editing required to fix these issues really increased the time I’d have to spend on each image. This was not an effective solution for me and caused more frustrations than anything. Fortunately, I was introduced to NiSi filters and in my view these are the best filters on the market.
So the things I now look for in filters are:
Build quality – things break.
Image Quality – Sharpness and color.
Size – a decent size to carry with ease.
Color cast – has to be as neutral as possible.
Effectiveness – (Ease of Use) How easy are they, and they must work at all times.
Let’s break these down as we talk about the NiSi V5 Pro.
Build Quality
As landscape photographers we tend to travel a lot and in many cases the terrain can be quite tough. The best kept landscapes are usually the ones tucked away far from reach. The last thing you want is a badly built system that can’t keep up with the kind of photography you do. The V5 Pro is CNC machine milled from a single piece of aluminum for strength and reliability. It is then coated with a matte black finish to effectively remove any reflections, thus reducing the chances of any light leaks. The quality is immediately apparent and the fact that it’s so light weight is definitely an advantage. NiSi filters are made of the high quality glass which has a nano coating to protect against water droplets if you are ever caught out in a light shower, it also provides a scratch resistant surface which is one the main features to look out for.
Image Quality
Colors and sharpness are two major points to consider when choosing a filter system and this is where NiSi really excels. Even with extremely long exposure times there is very little to no color casts produced in images. The image below was shot with the 10 stops ND glass filter resulting in a 30 seconds exposure. There is absolutely no loss in detail and the colors looks very natural and pleasing. Vignetting is no longer an issue, even at 16mm on a full frame sensor. Those magenta and blue shifts are no longer an issue and this really reduces the time required for post processing.
Even when you zoom in to the image you’ll notice how well the detail is rendered and this is something NiSi worked really hard to achieve.
Below is a 100% crop.
Size
This is another important factor for me. As you never truly know how the light will behave throughout your journey you do not want to be in a position where you need a filter and didn’t bring it due to the size of the system. Filters are a compromise I do not make. I take them all, but that’s because I can. The biggest advantage being the 82mm thread built into the ring adaptor, and the polarizer being so thin it hardly takes any space. I can carry all my filters, 6+, and the holder and rings in a small case. The provided case is small enough to slip inside your camera bag, yet tough enough to protect the system should it take a knock.
Color cast
As I mentioned the sole reason I purchased the NiSi range was because of the nonexistence color cast. I never thought that approx. 30 secends of exposure time would not leave any or very little color cast. And this was a NiSi 10 stops ND glass filter. I understand that you can correct the cast in post, and most times it might be minor, but ultimately it will add to the post time being taken. And for those purists out there, well, nothing to worry about anymore. The multi nano coating on the filters allow for the colors to remain neutral and leaves the image sharp.
Below are images with and without the NiSi ND 10 stops filter. (30 second exposure)
No Filter
Effectiveness (Ease of Use)
How effective a system can be very important. As a professional, the last thing I want is something that hinders my work. The great thing about the NiSi V5 Pro is that it is extremely effective in everyday use. The holder can take three filters along with a built-in polarizer. The way the holder is designed makes it very easy to add and remove filters. The polarizer still utilizes the amazing rotary system which rotates the filter without needing to remove anything once it is all connected. The polarizer is now raised making it much easier to remove if required, personally I always just keep it in. The one click system is the best I have used. It features a spring loaded latch which you pull to take the holder off and it goes back into place once you let it go. It is very simple making it a breeze to take off using one hand, although I recommend extreme care as accidents can happen. The NiSi V5 Pro comes complete with the main 82mm adaptor ring, and 3 separate rings for other size lenses. 67mm, 72mm and 77mm. The adaptor ring also hold the CPL, which is included. And of course the main holder to hold the filters. And lastly, the leather box to carry and store all the system and a few filters.
Final Thought.
Investment is something we always think twice about. We need to think about all the reasons for why we must make an investment and what return it will bring. For me it is a matter of reliability, speed and all the notes mentioned here. I need something reliable and effective, and know that my gear will not let me down. As a working professional is a key point. I am a firm believer in spend once, spend wise. Many have fallen into the trap of making a compromise, which is acceptable, but later almost regretted. For me NiSi was the best choice, as NiSi have grown in the market and expanded their range in camera gear. A growing company is always a great sign, as it shows they are engaged with their customers and want to make excellent products for the end user, thus providing them with great product experience.
