This topic is in the 2021 archive. You can read it and like its posts here. It is read only.
Archive 2021Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
p.4 #1Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
I agree with @highdesertmesa and @fuzzykeys regarding it just doesn't look the same in post. Here are some more for people who are interested. First off, here's what the BPM flaring looks like.
Both photos shot with a CV 75/1.5 WO.
Naked:
With BPM 1/2:
Secondly, I wanted to see if I could close to either of my favorite 2 character lenses with a modern well corrected options--the 35i and RX1. The TLDR; kind of not really.
The filters help--they dampen contrast, but they don't do the same stuff as native SA on or off axis. They add haze, and some halation with a light source, but take a look the Lux files @1.4 and you'll see some halation (or coma?) on the hanger or patio beams. You also can't replicate the color the same way. Also, the 35i has not been edited--the lens has a noticeable yellow caste. It's been like in every systemized comparison I've shot against any brand of lens I've shot. I've compared the 4 lenses at f2, but did post the Apoqualia and Lux at 1.4 where the are less corrected for curiosity/reference sake.
The 4 lenses are the 35 Lux M Pre-Asph, 35mm MS-Optics Apoqualia f1.4, RX1 and Sigma 35i. All shot on 2 second shutter delay, A7c, tripod, RAW, ISO 100, LR with only WB to match and Medium contrast tone curve applied. Focus was on the right breast pocket. Jacket is about 3 feet away. Take a look the the flickr album to see full photos.
Here is the uncropped photo on a tripod:
35 Lux + Apoqualia @ WO
All lenses, f2, naked:
All lenses, f2, BPM 1/8:
All lenses, f2, BPM 1/2:
All lenses, f2, Pearlescent 1:
I think I understand what I would like, but if others have testing, thought, questions or examples, please post! I am always looking to learn more about these, and I haven't dabbled outside of Tiffen.
Both photos shot with a CV 75/1.5 WO.
Naked:
With BPM 1/2:
Secondly, I wanted to see if I could close to either of my favorite 2 character lenses with a modern well corrected options--the 35i and RX1. The TLDR; kind of not really.
The filters help--they dampen contrast, but they don't do the same stuff as native SA on or off axis. They add haze, and some halation with a light source, but take a look the Lux files @1.4 and you'll see some halation (or coma?) on the hanger or patio beams. You also can't replicate the color the same way. Also, the 35i has not been edited--the lens has a noticeable yellow caste. It's been like in every systemized comparison I've shot against any brand of lens I've shot. I've compared the 4 lenses at f2, but did post the Apoqualia and Lux at 1.4 where the are less corrected for curiosity/reference sake.
The 4 lenses are the 35 Lux M Pre-Asph, 35mm MS-Optics Apoqualia f1.4, RX1 and Sigma 35i. All shot on 2 second shutter delay, A7c, tripod, RAW, ISO 100, LR with only WB to match and Medium contrast tone curve applied. Focus was on the right breast pocket. Jacket is about 3 feet away. Take a look the the flickr album to see full photos.
Here is the uncropped photo on a tripod:
35 Lux + Apoqualia @ WO
All lenses, f2, naked:
All lenses, f2, BPM 1/8:
All lenses, f2, BPM 1/2:
All lenses, f2, Pearlescent 1:
I think I understand what I would like, but if others have testing, thought, questions or examples, please post! I am always looking to learn more about these, and I haven't dabbled outside of Tiffen.
Apr 25, 2021 at 03:23 PM
p.4 #2Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
Some edited shots with the 1/2.
Haze by Matt and Jess Feinman, on Flickr
The Glow by Matt and Jess Feinman, on Flickr
If Only I Could Touch It by Matt and Jess Feinman, on Flickr
Window Glow by Matt and Jess Feinman, on Flickr
Carrying The Sun by Matt and Jess Feinman, on Flickr
Haze by Matt and Jess Feinman, on Flickr
The Glow by Matt and Jess Feinman, on Flickr
If Only I Could Touch It by Matt and Jess Feinman, on Flickr
Window Glow by Matt and Jess Feinman, on Flickr
Carrying The Sun by Matt and Jess Feinman, on Flickr
Apr 29, 2021 at 03:02 PM
p.4 #3Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
No regimented tests to share, but I bought Moment's Cinebloom filters, in both strengths--10 percent and 20 percent--in 62mm, for my Fuji 23mm/f1.4. I haven't used them much, but I can see the appeal.
Here's 10 percent, as an example. I'd had the filter on all day and didn't see much difference until I shot the backlit car.
Untitled by James, on Flickr
Here's 10 percent, as an example. I'd had the filter on all day and didn't see much difference until I shot the backlit car.
Untitled by James, on FlickrApr 29, 2021 at 04:34 PM
p.4 #4Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
Some test shots with Dream Filter + Black Pro Mist 1/4 + Black Pro Mist 1/2 on a Sigma 50 1.4 Art.
[
_DSC5969 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5988 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC4723 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5909 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5928 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5941 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5943 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5940 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5955 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5952 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5962 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5994 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC6014 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC6011 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5873 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5864 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5867 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5869 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5935 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5950 by Test Shots, on Flickr
_DSC5972 by Test Shots, on Flickr
[
_DSC5969 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5988 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC4723 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5909 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5928 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5941 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5943 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5940 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5955 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5952 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5962 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5994 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC6014 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC6011 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5873 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5864 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5867 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5869 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5935 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5950 by Test Shots, on Flickr_DSC5972 by Test Shots, on FlickrApr 29, 2021 at 05:29 PM
p.4 #5Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
Looks great there!
SiggiChurchill wrote:
No regimented tests to share, but I bought Moment's Cinebloom filters, in both strengths--10 percent and 20 percent--in 62mm, for my Fuji 23mm/f1.4. I haven't used them much, but I can see the appeal.
Here's 10 percent, as an example. I'd had the filter on all day and didn't see much difference until I shot the backlit car.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50602542217_b737e22712_b.jpgUntitled by James, on Flickr
SiggiChurchill wrote:
No regimented tests to share, but I bought Moment's Cinebloom filters, in both strengths--10 percent and 20 percent--in 62mm, for my Fuji 23mm/f1.4. I haven't used them much, but I can see the appeal.
Here's 10 percent, as an example. I'd had the filter on all day and didn't see much difference until I shot the backlit car.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50602542217_b737e22712_b.jpgUntitled by James, on Flickr
Apr 29, 2021 at 06:11 PM
p.4 #6Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
I have the 35GM which I love. I used to have the Sigma 1.2 which had a touch better bokeh etc. If I use a simple radial selection in Camera Raw or LR and use some negative texture I get basically the same look. It doesn’t ruin the contrast or muddy the waters. Quick and easy. 😊
Apr 30, 2021 at 05:59 PM
p.4 #7Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
rainio wrote:
Oh, wow! This looks like it's turning into the internet's definitive diffusion filter discussion!
I'll move over to yours!
It seems that these filters do smooth bokeh and OOF areas, so if anyone's is interested in more discussion you can pop over to the other discussion.
Someone mentioned do the filters work at higher studies, which is a good point. I'll look into this and post there.
Thanks!
The OOF areas/bokeh of the 35mm GM in some circumstances can be not as smooth as that seen with the Sigma 1.2, for example, not surprisingly as the Sigma is faster, though also, IMHO, the Sony has been engineered for sharpness and quite a bit of contrast.
Has anyone experimented with Black pro mist filters for this purpose?
These filters, and similar ones by competitors, are often used by videographers to soften the "digital" look from digital video cameras.
Here's the schpiel from the producer:
"-Contrast is lowered, but with less lightening of shadows for a more delicate effect
-Creates a soft light "pastel" effect
-Delicate effect with contained highlight flare
"... unique layering of contrast combined with a gauzy paint like halation, function as a twist on the stand of the pro halation spill effect. Even at its lowest density, it delivers an effective and increase in the halation which adds a pleasing depth of warmth, but is not transported to the skin tone values. "
https://tiffen.com/products/black-pro-mist-filter
I have nothing to do with this company. Some people prefer other similar filters. They're not cheap. Saw Lindsay Adler using one in a video.
The Black pro mist 1/8 has a weak effect, the 1/4 more (often used for portraits) and the 1/2 even more. If you use higher strengths then the chances of light "blooming" increases, so you have to watch out for that. Some people use higher strengths for higher FL I believe (or vice versa, I can't remember!).
They say that it reduces contrast and doesn't effect sharpness or skin tones (good for portraits! Don't think such an effect can exactly be accomplished in post processing as the random tiny specks of matter in the filter disperse light slightly, producing different effects according to the subject/light etc)
Anyway, I decided to do a few test shots with an A7RII and the Sony 35mm GM.
These photos were taken with EFCS off and manual focused to around a few feet, I think it was, to isolate not such smooth OOF areas.
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/7l3cz1X.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/8Bo1rvg.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/2RjbDMZ.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/4t8L1oM.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/eXPouuH.jpg
Black pro mist 1/4:
https://i.imgur.com/xpxsUAC.jpg
At first glance you may not notice much of an effect (especially with the 1/4 strength), though to my eye I can see reduced contrast and softer rendering.
If anyone is interested I can do more experiments (the effect should be more pronounced with back light as there would be more blooming), and your own experiments would be useful if you have such a filter.
I use them when doing portraits, and when I can't be bothered to work on background OOF areas to smooth them more (which I've never done anyway though haven't used such a crazy sharp contrasty lens like the 35mm GM before), so it might save you some post processing of the background if you feel the effect is OK for you.
ThanksThere is already a thread started for this exact thing here recently! This thread covers BPM mist among others at different FL's and such:
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1695216/0
It would be great if you posted your examples and thoughts in that so we don't have multiple threads covering the same thing--it's a much more valuable/helpful source for the FM community when info/testing/discussion is centralized.
+1 to seeing more shots with the black pro mist 1/4 on the GM35. I have been looking at this exact combination and would be interested to know the results with a person as a subject and varying levels of background foliage. Bonus if the background foliage is just a little bright, because the GM renders OOF highlights a bit brighter than other lenses. But whatever subjects you have available to you is fine, anything really is appreciated. I will look for them in the other thread!
Oh, wow! This looks like it's turning into the internet's definitive diffusion filter discussion!
I'll move over to yours!
It seems that these filters do smooth bokeh and OOF areas, so if anyone's is interested in more discussion you can pop over to the other discussion.
Someone mentioned do the filters work at higher studies, which is a good point. I'll look into this and post there.
Thanks!
nehemiahphoto wrote
rainio wrote
Hello,The OOF areas/bokeh of the 35mm GM in some circumstances can be not as smooth as that seen with the Sigma 1.2, for example, not surprisingly as the Sigma is faster, though also, IMHO, the Sony has been engineered for sharpness and quite a bit of contrast.
Has anyone experimented with Black pro mist filters for this purpose?
These filters, and similar ones by competitors, are often used by videographers to soften the "digital" look from digital video cameras.
Here's the schpiel from the producer:
"-Contrast is lowered, but with less lightening of shadows for a more delicate effect
-Creates a soft light "pastel" effect
-Delicate effect with contained highlight flare
"... unique layering of contrast combined with a gauzy paint like halation, function as a twist on the stand of the pro halation spill effect. Even at its lowest density, it delivers an effective and increase in the halation which adds a pleasing depth of warmth, but is not transported to the skin tone values. "
https://tiffen.com/products/black-pro-mist-filter
I have nothing to do with this company. Some people prefer other similar filters. They're not cheap. Saw Lindsay Adler using one in a video.
The Black pro mist 1/8 has a weak effect, the 1/4 more (often used for portraits) and the 1/2 even more. If you use higher strengths then the chances of light "blooming" increases, so you have to watch out for that. Some people use higher strengths for higher FL I believe (or vice versa, I can't remember!).
They say that it reduces contrast and doesn't effect sharpness or skin tones (good for portraits! Don't think such an effect can exactly be accomplished in post processing as the random tiny specks of matter in the filter disperse light slightly, producing different effects according to the subject/light etc)
Anyway, I decided to do a few test shots with an A7RII and the Sony 35mm GM.
These photos were taken with EFCS off and manual focused to around a few feet, I think it was, to isolate not such smooth OOF areas.
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/7l3cz1X.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/8Bo1rvg.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/2RjbDMZ.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/4t8L1oM.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/eXPouuH.jpg
Black pro mist 1/4:
https://i.imgur.com/xpxsUAC.jpg
At first glance you may not notice much of an effect (especially with the 1/4 strength), though to my eye I can see reduced contrast and softer rendering.
If anyone is interested I can do more experiments (the effect should be more pronounced with back light as there would be more blooming), and your own experiments would be useful if you have such a filter.
I use them when doing portraits, and when I can't be bothered to work on background OOF areas to smooth them more (which I've never done anyway though haven't used such a crazy sharp contrasty lens like the 35mm GM before), so it might save you some post processing of the background if you feel the effect is OK for you.
Thanks
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1695216/0
It would be great if you posted your examples and thoughts in that so we don't have multiple threads covering the same thing--it's a much more valuable/helpful source for the FM community when info/testing/discussion is centralized.
+1 to seeing more shots with the black pro mist 1/4 on the GM35. I have been looking at this exact combination and would be interested to know the results with a person as a subject and varying levels of background foliage. Bonus if the background foliage is just a little bright, because the GM renders OOF highlights a bit brighter than other lenses. But whatever subjects you have available to you is fine, anything really is appreciated. I will look for them in the other thread!
Apr 30, 2021 at 06:22 PM
p.4 #8Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
I’ve been experimenting with the Tiffen Black Pro Mist. These are all with the Sony a7S III with a 1/4:
Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM:
Forest Glow by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG DN | Art:
Town Center by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Texting While Dining by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Wired by David Arbogast, on Flickr
The Columbus Ledger-Enquirer by David Arbogast, on Flickr
We Are by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM:
Forest Glow by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG DN | Art:
Town Center by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Texting While Dining by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Wired by David Arbogast, on Flickr
The Columbus Ledger-Enquirer by David Arbogast, on Flickr
We Are by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Apr 30, 2021 at 11:00 PM
p.4 #9Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
A few more using the a7S III with Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG DN | Art with Tiffen Black Pro Mist 1/4 ND:
Love One Another by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Nuts & Mo by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Always Uptown by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Vintage Antiques by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Love One Another by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Nuts & Mo by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Always Uptown by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Vintage Antiques by David Arbogast, on Flickr
Apr 30, 2021 at 11:04 PM
p.4 #10Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
abadger wrote:
I'll move over to yours!
It seems that these filters do smooth bokeh and OOF areas, so if anyone's is interested in more discussion you can pop over to the other discussion.
Someone mentioned do the filters work at higher studies, which is a good point. I'll look into this and post there.
Thanks!
The OOF areas/bokeh of the 35mm GM in some circumstances can be not as smooth as that seen with the Sigma 1.2, for example, not surprisingly as the Sigma is faster, though also, IMHO, the Sony has been engineered for sharpness and quite a bit of contrast.
Has anyone experimented with Black pro mist filters for this purpose?
These filters, and similar ones by competitors, are often used by videographers to soften the "digital" look from digital video cameras.
Here's the schpiel from the producer:
"-Contrast is lowered, but with less lightening of shadows for a more delicate effect
-Creates a soft light "pastel" effect
-Delicate effect with contained highlight flare
"... unique layering of contrast combined with a gauzy paint like halation, function as a twist on the stand of the pro halation spill effect. Even at its lowest density, it delivers an effective and increase in the halation which adds a pleasing depth of warmth, but is not transported to the skin tone values. "
https://tiffen.com/products/black-pro-mist-filter
I have nothing to do with this company. Some people prefer other similar filters. They're not cheap. Saw Lindsay Adler using one in a video.
The Black pro mist 1/8 has a weak effect, the 1/4 more (often used for portraits) and the 1/2 even more. If you use higher strengths then the chances of light "blooming" increases, so you have to watch out for that. Some people use higher strengths for higher FL I believe (or vice versa, I can't remember!).
They say that it reduces contrast and doesn't effect sharpness or skin tones (good for portraits! Don't think such an effect can exactly be accomplished in post processing as the random tiny specks of matter in the filter disperse light slightly, producing different effects according to the subject/light etc)
Anyway, I decided to do a few test shots with an A7RII and the Sony 35mm GM.
These photos were taken with EFCS off and manual focused to around a few feet, I think it was, to isolate not such smooth OOF areas.
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/7l3cz1X.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/8Bo1rvg.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/2RjbDMZ.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/4t8L1oM.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/eXPouuH.jpg
Black pro mist 1/4:
https://i.imgur.com/xpxsUAC.jpg
At first glance you may not notice much of an effect (especially with the 1/4 strength), though to my eye I can see reduced contrast and softer rendering.
If anyone is interested I can do more experiments (the effect should be more pronounced with back light as there would be more blooming), and your own experiments would be useful if you have such a filter.
I use them when doing portraits, and when I can't be bothered to work on background OOF areas to smooth them more (which I've never done anyway though haven't used such a crazy sharp contrasty lens like the 35mm GM before), so it might save you some post processing of the background if you feel the effect is OK for you.
ThanksThere is already a thread started for this exact thing here recently! This thread covers BPM mist among others at different FL's and such:
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1695216/0
It would be great if you posted your examples and thoughts in that so we don't have multiple threads covering the same thing--it's a much more valuable/helpful source for the FM community when info/testing/discussion is centralized.+1 to seeing more shots with the black pro mist 1/4 on the GM35. I have been looking at this exact combination and would be interested to know the results with a person as a subject and varying levels of background foliage. Bonus if the background foliage is just a little bright, because the GM renders OOF highlights a bit brighter than other lenses. But whatever subjects you have available to you is fine, anything really is appreciated. I will look for them in the other thread!
I just dropped in some images in there taken with my Sigma 35 1.2 Art…there isn’t a significant difference between the Sigma 35 1.2 and the 35GM imo. I love my Sigma, but the temptation to switch to the GM is persistent simply because of the size/weight superiority of the GM.
rainio wrote
Oh, wow! This looks like it's turning into the internet's definitive diffusion filter discussion!I'll move over to yours!
It seems that these filters do smooth bokeh and OOF areas, so if anyone's is interested in more discussion you can pop over to the other discussion.
Someone mentioned do the filters work at higher studies, which is a good point. I'll look into this and post there.
Thanks!
nehemiahphoto wrote
rainio wrote
Hello,The OOF areas/bokeh of the 35mm GM in some circumstances can be not as smooth as that seen with the Sigma 1.2, for example, not surprisingly as the Sigma is faster, though also, IMHO, the Sony has been engineered for sharpness and quite a bit of contrast.
Has anyone experimented with Black pro mist filters for this purpose?
These filters, and similar ones by competitors, are often used by videographers to soften the "digital" look from digital video cameras.
Here's the schpiel from the producer:
"-Contrast is lowered, but with less lightening of shadows for a more delicate effect
-Creates a soft light "pastel" effect
-Delicate effect with contained highlight flare
"... unique layering of contrast combined with a gauzy paint like halation, function as a twist on the stand of the pro halation spill effect. Even at its lowest density, it delivers an effective and increase in the halation which adds a pleasing depth of warmth, but is not transported to the skin tone values. "
https://tiffen.com/products/black-pro-mist-filter
I have nothing to do with this company. Some people prefer other similar filters. They're not cheap. Saw Lindsay Adler using one in a video.
The Black pro mist 1/8 has a weak effect, the 1/4 more (often used for portraits) and the 1/2 even more. If you use higher strengths then the chances of light "blooming" increases, so you have to watch out for that. Some people use higher strengths for higher FL I believe (or vice versa, I can't remember!).
They say that it reduces contrast and doesn't effect sharpness or skin tones (good for portraits! Don't think such an effect can exactly be accomplished in post processing as the random tiny specks of matter in the filter disperse light slightly, producing different effects according to the subject/light etc)
Anyway, I decided to do a few test shots with an A7RII and the Sony 35mm GM.
These photos were taken with EFCS off and manual focused to around a few feet, I think it was, to isolate not such smooth OOF areas.
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/7l3cz1X.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/8Bo1rvg.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/2RjbDMZ.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/4t8L1oM.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/eXPouuH.jpg
Black pro mist 1/4:
https://i.imgur.com/xpxsUAC.jpg
At first glance you may not notice much of an effect (especially with the 1/4 strength), though to my eye I can see reduced contrast and softer rendering.
If anyone is interested I can do more experiments (the effect should be more pronounced with back light as there would be more blooming), and your own experiments would be useful if you have such a filter.
I use them when doing portraits, and when I can't be bothered to work on background OOF areas to smooth them more (which I've never done anyway though haven't used such a crazy sharp contrasty lens like the 35mm GM before), so it might save you some post processing of the background if you feel the effect is OK for you.
Thanks
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1695216/0
It would be great if you posted your examples and thoughts in that so we don't have multiple threads covering the same thing--it's a much more valuable/helpful source for the FM community when info/testing/discussion is centralized.
I just dropped in some images in there taken with my Sigma 35 1.2 Art…there isn’t a significant difference between the Sigma 35 1.2 and the 35GM imo. I love my Sigma, but the temptation to switch to the GM is persistent simply because of the size/weight superiority of the GM.
Apr 30, 2021 at 11:09 PM
p.4 #11Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
photomadnz wrote:
I have the 35GM which I love. I used to have the Sigma 1.2 which had a touch better bokeh etc. If I use a simple radial selection in Camera Raw or LR and use some negative texture I get basically the same look. It doesn’t ruin the contrast or muddy the waters. Quick and easy. 😊
Whatt is "radial selection" ?
I have the 35GM which I love. I used to have the Sigma 1.2 which had a touch better bokeh etc. If I use a simple radial selection in Camera Raw or LR and use some negative texture I get basically the same look. It doesn’t ruin the contrast or muddy the waters. Quick and easy. 😊
Whatt is "radial selection" ?
May 01, 2021 at 05:24 AM
p.4 #12Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
DaveFP wrote:
Whatt is "radial selection" ?
Probably a circular gradient.
photomadnz wrote
I have the 35GM which I love. I used to have the Sigma 1.2 which had a touch better bokeh etc. If I use a simple radial selection in Camera Raw or LR and use some negative texture I get basically the same look. It doesn’t ruin the contrast or muddy the waters. Quick and easy. 😊Probably a circular gradient.
May 01, 2021 at 05:38 AM
p.4 #13Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
darbo wrote:
A few more using the a7S III with Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG DN | Art with Tiffen Black Pro Mist 1/4 ND:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118506439_47809bdd06_h.jpg
Love One Another by David Arbogast, on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118183887_4617d4339f_h.jpg
Nuts & Mo by David Arbogast, on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118183907_0578f5f165_h.jpg
Always Uptown by David Arbogast, on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118183927_bb16b79121_h.jpg
Vintage Antiques by David Arbogast, on Flickr
I think I saw some of these in that lens thread and it is what prompted me to look into the pro mist filter. I am a fan of the look it gives at night, sort of a pseudo cinestill effect with the light blooms.
And I really enjoyed Helena’s use of the filter as well, in those golden hour shots. This plus softening contrast for portraits would be the main use case for me. Wondering if I should get two strengths. Then can stack as needed.
A few more using the a7S III with Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG DN | Art with Tiffen Black Pro Mist 1/4 ND:
Love One Another by David Arbogast, on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118183887_4617d4339f_h.jpg
Nuts & Mo by David Arbogast, on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118183907_0578f5f165_h.jpg
Always Uptown by David Arbogast, on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118183927_bb16b79121_h.jpg
Vintage Antiques by David Arbogast, on Flickr
I think I saw some of these in that lens thread and it is what prompted me to look into the pro mist filter. I am a fan of the look it gives at night, sort of a pseudo cinestill effect with the light blooms.
And I really enjoyed Helena’s use of the filter as well, in those golden hour shots. This plus softening contrast for portraits would be the main use case for me. Wondering if I should get two strengths. Then can stack as needed.
May 01, 2021 at 05:44 AM
p.4 #14Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
abadger wrote:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118506439_47809bdd06_h.jpg
Love One Another by David Arbogast, on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118183887_4617d4339f_h.jpg
Nuts & Mo by David Arbogast, on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118183907_0578f5f165_h.jpg
Always Uptown by David Arbogast, on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118183927_bb16b79121_h.jpg
Vintage Antiques by David Arbogast, on Flickr I think I saw some of these in that lens thread and it is what prompted me to look into the pro mist filter. I am a fan of the look it gives at night, sort of a pseudo cinestill effect with the light blooms.
And I really enjoyed Helena’s use of the filter as well, in those golden hour shots. This plus softening contrast for portraits would be the main use case for me. Wondering if I should get two strengths. Then can stack as needed.
Agree with getting a couple strengths…in my short experience so far I felt the effect with 1/4 got a little strong in some cases, so I ordered a 1/8 as well. Haven’t tried the 1/8 yet.
darbo wrote
A few more using the a7S III with Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG DN | Art with Tiffen Black Pro Mist 1/4 ND:Love One Another by David Arbogast, on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118183887_4617d4339f_h.jpg
Nuts & Mo by David Arbogast, on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118183907_0578f5f165_h.jpg
Always Uptown by David Arbogast, on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51118183927_bb16b79121_h.jpg
Vintage Antiques by David Arbogast, on Flickr
And I really enjoyed Helena’s use of the filter as well, in those golden hour shots. This plus softening contrast for portraits would be the main use case for me. Wondering if I should get two strengths. Then can stack as needed.
Agree with getting a couple strengths…in my short experience so far I felt the effect with 1/4 got a little strong in some cases, so I ordered a 1/8 as well. Haven’t tried the 1/8 yet.
May 01, 2021 at 05:57 AM
p.4 #15Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
abadger wrote:
I'll move over to yours!
It seems that these filters do smooth bokeh and OOF areas, so if anyone's is interested in more discussion you can pop over to the other discussion.
Someone mentioned do the filters work at higher studies, which is a good point. I'll look into this and post there.
Thanks!
The OOF areas/bokeh of the 35mm GM in some circumstances can be not as smooth as that seen with the Sigma 1.2, for example, not surprisingly as the Sigma is faster, though also, IMHO, the Sony has been engineered for sharpness and quite a bit of contrast.
Has anyone experimented with Black pro mist filters for this purpose?
These filters, and similar ones by competitors, are often used by videographers to soften the "digital" look from digital video cameras.
Here's the schpiel from the producer:
"-Contrast is lowered, but with less lightening of shadows for a more delicate effect
-Creates a soft light "pastel" effect
-Delicate effect with contained highlight flare
"... unique layering of contrast combined with a gauzy paint like halation, function as a twist on the stand of the pro halation spill effect. Even at its lowest density, it delivers an effective and increase in the halation which adds a pleasing depth of warmth, but is not transported to the skin tone values. "
https://tiffen.com/products/black-pro-mist-filter
I have nothing to do with this company. Some people prefer other similar filters. They're not cheap. Saw Lindsay Adler using one in a video.
The Black pro mist 1/8 has a weak effect, the 1/4 more (often used for portraits) and the 1/2 even more. If you use higher strengths then the chances of light "blooming" increases, so you have to watch out for that. Some people use higher strengths for higher FL I believe (or vice versa, I can't remember!).
They say that it reduces contrast and doesn't effect sharpness or skin tones (good for portraits! Don't think such an effect can exactly be accomplished in post processing as the random tiny specks of matter in the filter disperse light slightly, producing different effects according to the subject/light etc)
Anyway, I decided to do a few test shots with an A7RII and the Sony 35mm GM.
These photos were taken with EFCS off and manual focused to around a few feet, I think it was, to isolate not such smooth OOF areas.
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/7l3cz1X.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/8Bo1rvg.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/2RjbDMZ.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/4t8L1oM.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/eXPouuH.jpg
Black pro mist 1/4:
https://i.imgur.com/xpxsUAC.jpg
At first glance you may not notice much of an effect (especially with the 1/4 strength), though to my eye I can see reduced contrast and softer rendering.
If anyone is interested I can do more experiments (the effect should be more pronounced with back light as there would be more blooming), and your own experiments would be useful if you have such a filter.
I use them when doing portraits, and when I can't be bothered to work on background OOF areas to smooth them more (which I've never done anyway though haven't used such a crazy sharp contrasty lens like the 35mm GM before), so it might save you some post processing of the background if you feel the effect is OK for you.
ThanksThere is already a thread started for this exact thing here recently! This thread covers BPM mist among others at different FL's and such:
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1695216/0
It would be great if you posted your examples and thoughts in that so we don't have multiple threads covering the same thing--it's a much more valuable/helpful source for the FM community when info/testing/discussion is centralized.+1 to seeing more shots with the black pro mist 1/4 on the GM35. I have been looking at this exact combination and would be interested to know the results with a person as a subject and varying levels of background foliage. Bonus if the background foliage is just a little bright, because the GM renders OOF highlights a bit brighter than other lenses. But whatever subjects you have available to you is fine, anything really is appreciated. I will look for them in the other thread!
I've just bought one. Nice it will work with the FE 35mm f/1.4 GM and Sigma 65mm f/2 DG DN. lenses.
rainio wrote
Oh, wow! This looks like it's turning into the internet's definitive diffusion filter discussion!I'll move over to yours!
It seems that these filters do smooth bokeh and OOF areas, so if anyone's is interested in more discussion you can pop over to the other discussion.
Someone mentioned do the filters work at higher studies, which is a good point. I'll look into this and post there.
Thanks!
nehemiahphoto wrote
rainio wrote
Hello,The OOF areas/bokeh of the 35mm GM in some circumstances can be not as smooth as that seen with the Sigma 1.2, for example, not surprisingly as the Sigma is faster, though also, IMHO, the Sony has been engineered for sharpness and quite a bit of contrast.
Has anyone experimented with Black pro mist filters for this purpose?
These filters, and similar ones by competitors, are often used by videographers to soften the "digital" look from digital video cameras.
Here's the schpiel from the producer:
"-Contrast is lowered, but with less lightening of shadows for a more delicate effect
-Creates a soft light "pastel" effect
-Delicate effect with contained highlight flare
"... unique layering of contrast combined with a gauzy paint like halation, function as a twist on the stand of the pro halation spill effect. Even at its lowest density, it delivers an effective and increase in the halation which adds a pleasing depth of warmth, but is not transported to the skin tone values. "
https://tiffen.com/products/black-pro-mist-filter
I have nothing to do with this company. Some people prefer other similar filters. They're not cheap. Saw Lindsay Adler using one in a video.
The Black pro mist 1/8 has a weak effect, the 1/4 more (often used for portraits) and the 1/2 even more. If you use higher strengths then the chances of light "blooming" increases, so you have to watch out for that. Some people use higher strengths for higher FL I believe (or vice versa, I can't remember!).
They say that it reduces contrast and doesn't effect sharpness or skin tones (good for portraits! Don't think such an effect can exactly be accomplished in post processing as the random tiny specks of matter in the filter disperse light slightly, producing different effects according to the subject/light etc)
Anyway, I decided to do a few test shots with an A7RII and the Sony 35mm GM.
These photos were taken with EFCS off and manual focused to around a few feet, I think it was, to isolate not such smooth OOF areas.
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/7l3cz1X.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/8Bo1rvg.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/2RjbDMZ.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/4t8L1oM.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/eXPouuH.jpg
Black pro mist 1/4:
https://i.imgur.com/xpxsUAC.jpg
At first glance you may not notice much of an effect (especially with the 1/4 strength), though to my eye I can see reduced contrast and softer rendering.
If anyone is interested I can do more experiments (the effect should be more pronounced with back light as there would be more blooming), and your own experiments would be useful if you have such a filter.
I use them when doing portraits, and when I can't be bothered to work on background OOF areas to smooth them more (which I've never done anyway though haven't used such a crazy sharp contrasty lens like the 35mm GM before), so it might save you some post processing of the background if you feel the effect is OK for you.
Thanks
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1695216/0
It would be great if you posted your examples and thoughts in that so we don't have multiple threads covering the same thing--it's a much more valuable/helpful source for the FM community when info/testing/discussion is centralized.
I've just bought one. Nice it will work with the FE 35mm f/1.4 GM and Sigma 65mm f/2 DG DN. lenses.
May 01, 2021 at 09:22 AM
p.4 #16Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
Fred Miranda wrote:
I'll move over to yours!
It seems that these filters do smooth bokeh and OOF areas, so if anyone's is interested in more discussion you can pop over to the other discussion.
Someone mentioned do the filters work at higher studies, which is a good point. I'll look into this and post there.
Thanks!
The OOF areas/bokeh of the 35mm GM in some circumstances can be not as smooth as that seen with the Sigma 1.2, for example, not surprisingly as the Sigma is faster, though also, IMHO, the Sony has been engineered for sharpness and quite a bit of contrast.
Has anyone experimented with Black pro mist filters for this purpose?
These filters, and similar ones by competitors, are often used by videographers to soften the "digital" look from digital video cameras.
Here's the schpiel from the producer:
"-Contrast is lowered, but with less lightening of shadows for a more delicate effect
-Creates a soft light "pastel" effect
-Delicate effect with contained highlight flare
"... unique layering of contrast combined with a gauzy paint like halation, function as a twist on the stand of the pro halation spill effect. Even at its lowest density, it delivers an effective and increase in the halation which adds a pleasing depth of warmth, but is not transported to the skin tone values. "
https://tiffen.com/products/black-pro-mist-filter
I have nothing to do with this company. Some people prefer other similar filters. They're not cheap. Saw Lindsay Adler using one in a video.
The Black pro mist 1/8 has a weak effect, the 1/4 more (often used for portraits) and the 1/2 even more. If you use higher strengths then the chances of light "blooming" increases, so you have to watch out for that. Some people use higher strengths for higher FL I believe (or vice versa, I can't remember!).
They say that it reduces contrast and doesn't effect sharpness or skin tones (good for portraits! Don't think such an effect can exactly be accomplished in post processing as the random tiny specks of matter in the filter disperse light slightly, producing different effects according to the subject/light etc)
Anyway, I decided to do a few test shots with an A7RII and the Sony 35mm GM.
These photos were taken with EFCS off and manual focused to around a few feet, I think it was, to isolate not such smooth OOF areas.
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/7l3cz1X.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/8Bo1rvg.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/2RjbDMZ.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/4t8L1oM.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/eXPouuH.jpg
Black pro mist 1/4:
https://i.imgur.com/xpxsUAC.jpg
At first glance you may not notice much of an effect (especially with the 1/4 strength), though to my eye I can see reduced contrast and softer rendering.
If anyone is interested I can do more experiments (the effect should be more pronounced with back light as there would be more blooming), and your own experiments would be useful if you have such a filter.
I use them when doing portraits, and when I can't be bothered to work on background OOF areas to smooth them more (which I've never done anyway though haven't used such a crazy sharp contrasty lens like the 35mm GM before), so it might save you some post processing of the background if you feel the effect is OK for you.
ThanksThere is already a thread started for this exact thing here recently! This thread covers BPM mist among others at different FL's and such:
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1695216/0
It would be great if you posted your examples and thoughts in that so we don't have multiple threads covering the same thing--it's a much more valuable/helpful source for the FM community when info/testing/discussion is centralized.+1 to seeing more shots with the black pro mist 1/4 on the GM35. I have been looking at this exact combination and would be interested to know the results with a person as a subject and varying levels of background foliage. Bonus if the background foliage is just a little bright, because the GM renders OOF highlights a bit brighter than other lenses. But whatever subjects you have available to you is fine, anything really is appreciated. I will look for them in the other thread!I've just bought one. Nice it will work with the FE 35mm f/1.4 GM and Sigma 65mm f/2 DG DN. lenses.
Unrelated forum issue – When you post in a thread I've been tagged in, the tag shows up again in my notifications as unread/new
abadger wrote
rainio wrote
Oh, wow! This looks like it's turning into the internet's definitive diffusion filter discussion!I'll move over to yours!
It seems that these filters do smooth bokeh and OOF areas, so if anyone's is interested in more discussion you can pop over to the other discussion.
Someone mentioned do the filters work at higher studies, which is a good point. I'll look into this and post there.
Thanks!
nehemiahphoto wrote
rainio wrote
Hello,The OOF areas/bokeh of the 35mm GM in some circumstances can be not as smooth as that seen with the Sigma 1.2, for example, not surprisingly as the Sigma is faster, though also, IMHO, the Sony has been engineered for sharpness and quite a bit of contrast.
Has anyone experimented with Black pro mist filters for this purpose?
These filters, and similar ones by competitors, are often used by videographers to soften the "digital" look from digital video cameras.
Here's the schpiel from the producer:
"-Contrast is lowered, but with less lightening of shadows for a more delicate effect
-Creates a soft light "pastel" effect
-Delicate effect with contained highlight flare
"... unique layering of contrast combined with a gauzy paint like halation, function as a twist on the stand of the pro halation spill effect. Even at its lowest density, it delivers an effective and increase in the halation which adds a pleasing depth of warmth, but is not transported to the skin tone values. "
https://tiffen.com/products/black-pro-mist-filter
I have nothing to do with this company. Some people prefer other similar filters. They're not cheap. Saw Lindsay Adler using one in a video.
The Black pro mist 1/8 has a weak effect, the 1/4 more (often used for portraits) and the 1/2 even more. If you use higher strengths then the chances of light "blooming" increases, so you have to watch out for that. Some people use higher strengths for higher FL I believe (or vice versa, I can't remember!).
They say that it reduces contrast and doesn't effect sharpness or skin tones (good for portraits! Don't think such an effect can exactly be accomplished in post processing as the random tiny specks of matter in the filter disperse light slightly, producing different effects according to the subject/light etc)
Anyway, I decided to do a few test shots with an A7RII and the Sony 35mm GM.
These photos were taken with EFCS off and manual focused to around a few feet, I think it was, to isolate not such smooth OOF areas.
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/7l3cz1X.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/8Bo1rvg.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/2RjbDMZ.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/4t8L1oM.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/eXPouuH.jpg
Black pro mist 1/4:
https://i.imgur.com/xpxsUAC.jpg
At first glance you may not notice much of an effect (especially with the 1/4 strength), though to my eye I can see reduced contrast and softer rendering.
If anyone is interested I can do more experiments (the effect should be more pronounced with back light as there would be more blooming), and your own experiments would be useful if you have such a filter.
I use them when doing portraits, and when I can't be bothered to work on background OOF areas to smooth them more (which I've never done anyway though haven't used such a crazy sharp contrasty lens like the 35mm GM before), so it might save you some post processing of the background if you feel the effect is OK for you.
Thanks
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1695216/0
It would be great if you posted your examples and thoughts in that so we don't have multiple threads covering the same thing--it's a much more valuable/helpful source for the FM community when info/testing/discussion is centralized.
Unrelated forum issue – When you post in a thread I've been tagged in, the tag shows up again in my notifications as unread/new
May 01, 2021 at 09:32 AM
p.4 #17Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
abadger wrote:
I think I saw some of these in that lens thread and it is what prompted me to look into the pro mist filter. I am a fan of the look it gives at night, sort of a pseudo cinestill effect with the light blooms.
And I really enjoyed Helena’s use of the filter as well, in those golden hour shots. This plus softening contrast for portraits would be the main use case for me. Wondering if I should get two strengths. Then can stack as needed.
I think getting two strengths is a good call if you don’t mind the cost and schlepping them around, plus you can stack as you mentioned to build up to a higher strength. I think a 1/8 and 1/4 combo would be pretty flexible for you since I know you are mostly a 35/50/85 guy for portraits like I am. The 1/8 will give you a nice bit of halation for night shots without looking too much like an obvious effect, especially at 35mm, and you could switch to 1/4 for 85mm and maintain a reasonably consistent look in a set of images. I would probably use the Dream Filter and 1/4 for that application since I don’t have a 1/8 as I think the halation is likely pretty similar, but it may not have as big an impact on contrast. It’s also much cheaper than a BPM of the same size.
On top of that, the lighting conditions really make a huge difference in the effect so you may want to use a different strength depending on the situation. Obviously light has to hit the filter in order for it be diffused and the more light that hits it directly, the stronger the effect will be. You may find yourself going for a lower strength in a backlit scene and the higher strength in shade, for example. You’ll have to play around and see what works best for you.
I think I saw some of these in that lens thread and it is what prompted me to look into the pro mist filter. I am a fan of the look it gives at night, sort of a pseudo cinestill effect with the light blooms.
And I really enjoyed Helena’s use of the filter as well, in those golden hour shots. This plus softening contrast for portraits would be the main use case for me. Wondering if I should get two strengths. Then can stack as needed.
I think getting two strengths is a good call if you don’t mind the cost and schlepping them around, plus you can stack as you mentioned to build up to a higher strength. I think a 1/8 and 1/4 combo would be pretty flexible for you since I know you are mostly a 35/50/85 guy for portraits like I am. The 1/8 will give you a nice bit of halation for night shots without looking too much like an obvious effect, especially at 35mm, and you could switch to 1/4 for 85mm and maintain a reasonably consistent look in a set of images. I would probably use the Dream Filter and 1/4 for that application since I don’t have a 1/8 as I think the halation is likely pretty similar, but it may not have as big an impact on contrast. It’s also much cheaper than a BPM of the same size.
On top of that, the lighting conditions really make a huge difference in the effect so you may want to use a different strength depending on the situation. Obviously light has to hit the filter in order for it be diffused and the more light that hits it directly, the stronger the effect will be. You may find yourself going for a lower strength in a backlit scene and the higher strength in shade, for example. You’ll have to play around and see what works best for you.
May 01, 2021 at 10:40 AM
p.4 #18Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
Fred Miranda wrote:
I'll move over to yours!
It seems that these filters do smooth bokeh and OOF areas, so if anyone's is interested in more discussion you can pop over to the other discussion.
Someone mentioned do the filters work at higher studies, which is a good point. I'll look into this and post there.
Thanks!
The OOF areas/bokeh of the 35mm GM in some circumstances can be not as smooth as that seen with the Sigma 1.2, for example, not surprisingly as the Sigma is faster, though also, IMHO, the Sony has been engineered for sharpness and quite a bit of contrast.
Has anyone experimented with Black pro mist filters for this purpose?
These filters, and similar ones by competitors, are often used by videographers to soften the "digital" look from digital video cameras.
Here's the schpiel from the producer:
"-Contrast is lowered, but with less lightening of shadows for a more delicate effect
-Creates a soft light "pastel" effect
-Delicate effect with contained highlight flare
"... unique layering of contrast combined with a gauzy paint like halation, function as a twist on the stand of the pro halation spill effect. Even at its lowest density, it delivers an effective and increase in the halation which adds a pleasing depth of warmth, but is not transported to the skin tone values. "
https://tiffen.com/products/black-pro-mist-filter
I have nothing to do with this company. Some people prefer other similar filters. They're not cheap. Saw Lindsay Adler using one in a video.
The Black pro mist 1/8 has a weak effect, the 1/4 more (often used for portraits) and the 1/2 even more. If you use higher strengths then the chances of light "blooming" increases, so you have to watch out for that. Some people use higher strengths for higher FL I believe (or vice versa, I can't remember!).
They say that it reduces contrast and doesn't effect sharpness or skin tones (good for portraits! Don't think such an effect can exactly be accomplished in post processing as the random tiny specks of matter in the filter disperse light slightly, producing different effects according to the subject/light etc)
Anyway, I decided to do a few test shots with an A7RII and the Sony 35mm GM.
These photos were taken with EFCS off and manual focused to around a few feet, I think it was, to isolate not such smooth OOF areas.
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/7l3cz1X.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/8Bo1rvg.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/2RjbDMZ.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/4t8L1oM.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/eXPouuH.jpg
Black pro mist 1/4:
https://i.imgur.com/xpxsUAC.jpg
At first glance you may not notice much of an effect (especially with the 1/4 strength), though to my eye I can see reduced contrast and softer rendering.
If anyone is interested I can do more experiments (the effect should be more pronounced with back light as there would be more blooming), and your own experiments would be useful if you have such a filter.
I use them when doing portraits, and when I can't be bothered to work on background OOF areas to smooth them more (which I've never done anyway though haven't used such a crazy sharp contrasty lens like the 35mm GM before), so it might save you some post processing of the background if you feel the effect is OK for you.
ThanksThere is already a thread started for this exact thing here recently! This thread covers BPM mist among others at different FL's and such:
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1695216/0
It would be great if you posted your examples and thoughts in that so we don't have multiple threads covering the same thing--it's a much more valuable/helpful source for the FM community when info/testing/discussion is centralized.+1 to seeing more shots with the black pro mist 1/4 on the GM35. I have been looking at this exact combination and would be interested to know the results with a person as a subject and varying levels of background foliage. Bonus if the background foliage is just a little bright, because the GM renders OOF highlights a bit brighter than other lenses. But whatever subjects you have available to you is fine, anything really is appreciated. I will look for them in the other thread!I've just bought one. Nice it will work with the FE 35mm f/1.4 GM and Sigma 65mm f/2 DG DN. lenses.
Ah great! Looking forward to your thoughts on it.
abadger wrote
rainio wrote
Oh, wow! This looks like it's turning into the internet's definitive diffusion filter discussion!I'll move over to yours!
It seems that these filters do smooth bokeh and OOF areas, so if anyone's is interested in more discussion you can pop over to the other discussion.
Someone mentioned do the filters work at higher studies, which is a good point. I'll look into this and post there.
Thanks!
nehemiahphoto wrote
rainio wrote
Hello,The OOF areas/bokeh of the 35mm GM in some circumstances can be not as smooth as that seen with the Sigma 1.2, for example, not surprisingly as the Sigma is faster, though also, IMHO, the Sony has been engineered for sharpness and quite a bit of contrast.
Has anyone experimented with Black pro mist filters for this purpose?
These filters, and similar ones by competitors, are often used by videographers to soften the "digital" look from digital video cameras.
Here's the schpiel from the producer:
"-Contrast is lowered, but with less lightening of shadows for a more delicate effect
-Creates a soft light "pastel" effect
-Delicate effect with contained highlight flare
"... unique layering of contrast combined with a gauzy paint like halation, function as a twist on the stand of the pro halation spill effect. Even at its lowest density, it delivers an effective and increase in the halation which adds a pleasing depth of warmth, but is not transported to the skin tone values. "
https://tiffen.com/products/black-pro-mist-filter
I have nothing to do with this company. Some people prefer other similar filters. They're not cheap. Saw Lindsay Adler using one in a video.
The Black pro mist 1/8 has a weak effect, the 1/4 more (often used for portraits) and the 1/2 even more. If you use higher strengths then the chances of light "blooming" increases, so you have to watch out for that. Some people use higher strengths for higher FL I believe (or vice versa, I can't remember!).
They say that it reduces contrast and doesn't effect sharpness or skin tones (good for portraits! Don't think such an effect can exactly be accomplished in post processing as the random tiny specks of matter in the filter disperse light slightly, producing different effects according to the subject/light etc)
Anyway, I decided to do a few test shots with an A7RII and the Sony 35mm GM.
These photos were taken with EFCS off and manual focused to around a few feet, I think it was, to isolate not such smooth OOF areas.
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/7l3cz1X.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/8Bo1rvg.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/2RjbDMZ.jpg
Black pro mist 1/2:
https://i.imgur.com/4t8L1oM.jpg
No filter:
https://i.imgur.com/eXPouuH.jpg
Black pro mist 1/4:
https://i.imgur.com/xpxsUAC.jpg
At first glance you may not notice much of an effect (especially with the 1/4 strength), though to my eye I can see reduced contrast and softer rendering.
If anyone is interested I can do more experiments (the effect should be more pronounced with back light as there would be more blooming), and your own experiments would be useful if you have such a filter.
I use them when doing portraits, and when I can't be bothered to work on background OOF areas to smooth them more (which I've never done anyway though haven't used such a crazy sharp contrasty lens like the 35mm GM before), so it might save you some post processing of the background if you feel the effect is OK for you.
Thanks
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1695216/0
It would be great if you posted your examples and thoughts in that so we don't have multiple threads covering the same thing--it's a much more valuable/helpful source for the FM community when info/testing/discussion is centralized.
Ah great! Looking forward to your thoughts on it.
May 01, 2021 at 10:42 AM
p.4 #19Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
fuzzykeys wrote:
And I really enjoyed Helena’s use of the filter as well, in those golden hour shots. This plus softening contrast for portraits would be the main use case for me. Wondering if I should get two strengths. Then can stack as needed.I think getting two strengths is a good call if you don’t mind the cost and schlepping them around, plus you can stack as you mentioned to build up to a higher strength. I think a 1/8 and 1/4 combo would be pretty flexible for you since I know you are mostly a 35/50/85 guy for portraits like I am. The 1/8 will give you a nice bit of halation for night shots without looking too much like an obvious effect, especially at 35mm, and you could switch to 1/4 for 85mm and maintain a reasonably consistent look in a...Show more →
This is good to know about the effects at different focal lengths, thank you. The other debate I’m having is whether to buy the larger filter and step up rings because the Samyang 85 is 77mm vs the 67mm GM and the 72mm 50 f1.4 ZA. I guess the real question is: do I need the hood? Should I remove the hood on purpose for effect? I don’t suppose the hood will fit with step up rings attached.
abadger wrote
I think I saw some of these in that lens thread and it is what prompted me to look into the pro mist filter. I am a fan of the look it gives at night, sort of a pseudo cinestill effect with the light blooms.And I really enjoyed Helena’s use of the filter as well, in those golden hour shots. This plus softening contrast for portraits would be the main use case for me. Wondering if I should get two strengths. Then can stack as needed.
This is good to know about the effects at different focal lengths, thank you. The other debate I’m having is whether to buy the larger filter and step up rings because the Samyang 85 is 77mm vs the 67mm GM and the 72mm 50 f1.4 ZA. I guess the real question is: do I need the hood? Should I remove the hood on purpose for effect? I don’t suppose the hood will fit with step up rings attached.
May 01, 2021 at 10:48 AM
p.4 #20Diffusion Filters! (or Effect Filters in general)
abadger wrote:
This is good to know about the effects at different focal lengths, thank you. The other debate I’m having is whether to buy the larger filter and step up rings because the Samyang 85 is 77mm vs the 67mm GM and the 72mm 50 f1.4 ZA. I guess the real question is: do I need the hood? Should I remove the hood on purpose for effect? I don’t suppose the hood will fit with step up rings attached.
Apparently the reason that Tiffen designed them with different specific strengths that scale linearly was so that video shooters would be able to maintain a similar look on set across different shots at different focal lengths.
Regarding hoods, all of my lenses are 67mm except for my 50, which is 77mm. At the moment, I just use step rings and remove the hoods with my smaller lenses. Fortunately, the smaller lenses are easier to one hand so I could use my hand to shade the front element, but it would be nice to be able to use hoods when needed as well.
This is good to know about the effects at different focal lengths, thank you. The other debate I’m having is whether to buy the larger filter and step up rings because the Samyang 85 is 77mm vs the 67mm GM and the 72mm 50 f1.4 ZA. I guess the real question is: do I need the hood? Should I remove the hood on purpose for effect? I don’t suppose the hood will fit with step up rings attached.
Apparently the reason that Tiffen designed them with different specific strengths that scale linearly was so that video shooters would be able to maintain a similar look on set across different shots at different focal lengths.
Regarding hoods, all of my lenses are 67mm except for my 50, which is 77mm. At the moment, I just use step rings and remove the hoods with my smaller lenses. Fortunately, the smaller lenses are easier to one hand so I could use my hand to shade the front element, but it would be nice to be able to use hoods when needed as well.
May 01, 2021 at 11:18 AM