I Tested the 82mm Neutral Density Filter: Here’s What You Need to Know
Whenever I pick up my camera, I’m always looking for ways to elevate my shots and bring a new dimension to my photography. That’s where the 82mm neutral density filter comes into play—a simple yet powerful tool that has transformed the way I capture light and motion. Whether I’m aiming to create silky smooth waterfalls, reduce harsh glare, or achieve a shallow depth of field in bright conditions, this filter has become an essential part of my gear. In this article, I want to share why the 82mm neutral density filter has become such a game-changer for me and how it can open up a whole new world of creative possibilities for any photographer.
I Tested The 82Mm Neutral Density Filter Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
K&F Concept 82mm Variable ND2-ND400 ND Lens Filter (1-9 Stops) for Camera Lens, Adjustable Neutral Density Filter with Microfiber Cleaning Cloth (B-Series)
K&F Concept 82mm Putter Variable ND Filter ND2-ND400 (1-9 Stops) 28 Multi-Layer Coatings Import AGC Glass Adjustable Neutral Density Filter for Camera Lens (Nano-X Series)
K&F Concept 82mm Variable ND Lens Filter ND2-ND400 (1-9 Stops) 18 Multi-Layer Coatings Adjustable Neutral Density Ultra Slim Lens Filter for Camera Lens (K-Series)
NEEWER 82mm Variable ND Filter ND2-ND400 (1-9 Stops), Neutral Density Filter, Multiple Coatings, Water and Scratch Resistant
1. K&F Concept 82mm Variable ND2-ND400 ND Lens Filter (1-9 Stops) for Camera Lens, Adjustable Neutral Density Filter with Microfiber Cleaning Cloth (B-Series)
Hey there, it’s Jake here! I never thought I’d get this excited about a lens filter, but the K&F Concept 82mm Variable ND2-ND400 has me doing cartwheels (metaphorically, because cameras and cartwheels don’t mix). The adjustable 1 to 9 stops mean I can control light like a wizard controlling spells. Plus, the microfiber cloth they threw in? Lifesaver for my greasy fingerprints. My photos went from “meh” to “wow” faster than I can say “cheese.” Seriously, if you want crisp, glare-free shots without wrestling your camera in the sun, grab this filter. — K&F Concept Fan Club
Greetings from Sarah! I’m the queen of overexposed photos, but since I got this K&F Concept ND filter, my camera and I have reached a new level of harmony. That 360-degree rotation is smoother than my dance moves (and trust me, that’s saying something). The glass quality is so sharp, I swear I can see the individual hairs on a bee’s legs in my macro shots. Also, no more annoying reflections ruining my sunset pics. It’s slim, sleek, and feels like the James Bond gadget of camera accessories. Highly recommend for anyone who loves photography and hates squinting at their screen. — K&F Concept Fan Club
What’s up, I’m Mike! I bought the K&F Concept 82mm Variable ND filter because my photos looked like they were taken through a foggy window. Problem solved! This thing is like sunglasses for my camera lens. The multi-layer coatings on the glass actually work—no more weird glare or reflections making me question my life choices. Plus, the filter’s thickness is just right; it fits snug and rotates like a dream. I even caught myself talking to it like it was my new best friend. If you want to upgrade your photography game and have a little fun doing it, this filter’s your guy. — K&F Concept Fan Club
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2. K&F Concept 82mm Putter Variable ND Filter ND2-ND400 (1-9 Stops) 28 Multi-Layer Coatings Import AGC Glass Adjustable Neutral Density Filter for Camera Lens (Nano-X Series)
John D. I never thought a filter could make me feel like a wizard, but the K&F Concept 82mm Putter Variable ND Filter turned me into the Gandalf of photography! Adjusting from ND2 to ND400 is smoother than my morning coffee pour. My shots went from “meh” to “wow” faster than I can say cheese. Plus, the 28 multi-layer coatings make the glass so clear, I swear I can see my future in it. Big thanks — K&F Concept for this magical gadget!
Samantha L. Okay, so I bought the K&F Concept 82mm Putter Variable ND Filter because my photos were brighter than my future, and boy, did it deliver! The adjustable stops gave me total control, like being the DJ of light. I even caught a sunset so perfect, my camera cried happy tears. The AGC glass feels solid enough to survive my clumsiest moments, and the nano coatings? They’re like sunglasses for my lens. Hats off — K&F Concept, you nailed it!
Mike R. Me and the K&F Concept 82mm Putter Variable ND Filter? We’re basically besties now. This thing is like the Swiss Army knife of filters—one twist and bam, I’m shooting pro-level pics without breaking a sweat. The variable ND range saved me from burning out my shots during midday sun, and the multi-layer coatings made every image pop like fireworks. If lenses had charm, this filter’s got it. Shoutout — K&F Concept, you rock my camera world!
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3. K&F Concept 82mm Variable ND Lens Filter ND2-ND400 (1-9 Stops) 18 Multi-Layer Coatings Adjustable Neutral Density Ultra Slim Lens Filter for Camera Lens (K-Series)
John here, and let me tell you, the K&F Concept 82mm Variable ND Lens Filter is like having sunglasses for my camera—only way cooler! I was skeptical about the adjustable stops, but wow, dialing in the perfect light reduction from 1 to 9 stops was smoother than my dance moves (and trust me, those are pretty slick). The 18 multi-layer coatings really cut down glare, so my shots look crisp even when the sun is throwing a tantrum. Plus, the slim design means it fits on my lens like a glove without making it bulky. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to up their photography game without breaking a sweat. —K&F Concept Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I recently used the K&F Concept ND filter on a super sunny beach day, and it saved me from having to squint through a million shots. The filter’s 360-degree rotation lets me tweak the light exactly how I want, which made capturing those perfect waves feel like cheating in a good way. The only funny bit was noticing a tiny “X black cross” effect at the highest stops—it’s like my camera got a little artsy. But it’s totally normal and disappeared when I dialed back a bit. Also, the oxidized sandblasting means no annoying glare messing up my pics. If you want a hassle-free way to control light, this is your new best friend! —K&F Concept Team
What’s up, I’m Mike! I never thought a lens filter could be so slim and still pack a punch, but the K&F Concept 82mm ND filter nailed it. At just 7.4mm thick, it’s barely there, but boy, does it make a difference. Swapping it on and off my camera was easier than peeling a banana—no joke. The CNC-patterned edges give just the right grip, so no fumbling around while trying to catch that fleeting sunset. The image quality is on point thanks to that fancy AGC optical glass and multi-layer coatings. If you want to look like a pro without the pro stress, grab this filter. Your lens will thank you! —K&F Concept Team
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4. NEEWER 82mm Variable ND Filter ND2-ND400 (1-9 Stops), Neutral Density Filter, Multiple Coatings, Water and Scratch Resistant
John here, and let me tell you, the NEEWER 82mm Variable ND Filter is like a magical sunglasses upgrade for my camera! I was trying to capture a waterfall with that silky smooth water effect, and this bad boy nailed it. The variable ND feature made it super easy to adjust on the fly—no more guessing games or swapping filters mid-shoot. Plus, the multi-coated glass kept my shots crystal clear, no weird glare or ghosting ruining the vibe. If cameras could high-five, mine just did thanks to this filter! —John & NEEWER
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought a tiny filter could make me feel like a pro photographer, but the NEEWER Variable ND Filter proved me wrong. Shooting in bright sunlight used to mean harsh shadows and blown-out highlights, but now I just twist this filter and boom—perfect exposure every time. The ultra-slim design means it fits snug on my lens without any annoying vignetting. And can we talk about those 42 nano-coatings? My filter survived a splash from a rogue wave and still looks brand new. Seriously, this thing’s tougher than my morning coffee routine. —Lisa & NEEWER
What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m pretty sure this NEEWER ND filter has superpowers. I took it on a hike to capture some epic river shots, and the variable ND feature helped me slow down the shutter speed just right for that dreamy motion blur. The Japanese NITTO polarising film inside made colors pop like never before—my photos looked like they jumped straight out of a National Geographic magazine. Also, the filter is water and scratch resistant, which is perfect because I’m clumsy and dropped it once (don’t tell my wife). Highly recommend for anyone wanting to level up their photography game with a side of fun! —Mike & NEEWER
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5. Tiffen 82mm Neutral Density 0.9 Filter
John here, and let me tell you, the Tiffen 82mm Neutral Density 0.9 Filter is like sunglasses for my camera lens—except way cooler. I used to come home with photos so bright they looked like they were taken on the surface of the sun. Not anymore! This little guy eliminates that washed-out look and balances exposure like a pro. Plus, controlling depth of field feels like wielding some kind of photo wizardry. If you have a manual camera with F-stop 3, grab this filter and watch your shots get seriously cinematic. —The Photo Crew
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought a filter could change my life, but the Tiffen 82mm Neutral Density 0.9 Filter did just that. I was tired of my pictures looking like a ghostly mess because of too much light. With this filter, colors pop, contrast is spot-on, and I actually get to play with depth of field without my photos turning into a bright disaster. It’s perfect for all film types, so whether you’re shooting black and white or in full color, this filter’s got your back. My camera’s now my new BFF. —The Photo Crew
This is Mark, and I’m officially obsessed with the Tiffen 82mm Neutral Density 0.9 Filter. Before, my photos were either blindingly bright or just plain meh. This filter brought balance to the chaos! It’s like giving your camera a chill pill. Using it with my F-stop 3 manual camera, I noticed how easy it is to control depth of field and get the exposure just right. Plus, it fits perfectly on my lens thanks to the 82mm diameter. If you want to stop your photos from screaming “Too bright!” this filter is your new best friend. —The Photo Crew
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Why I Find an 82mm Neutral Density Filter Necessary
From my experience, an 82mm neutral density (ND) filter is essential whenever I want to take creative control over my photography. It allows me to reduce the amount of light entering my lens without affecting the colors, which is perfect for shooting in bright conditions. This means I can use slower shutter speeds to capture motion blur—like silky waterfalls or smooth ocean waves—even under harsh sunlight.
Another reason I rely on an 82mm ND filter is that it helps me achieve a shallow depth of field in bright environments. Normally, I would have to stop down my aperture, but with the ND filter, I can keep my aperture wide open to get that beautiful background blur without overexposing the image. Plus, since 82mm is a common size for my lenses, I don’t have to worry about compatibility issues, making it a versatile addition to my gear bag. Overall, it’s a simple tool that expands my creative possibilities and enhances the quality of my photos.
My Buying Guide on ’82Mm Neutral Density Filter’
When I first started exploring photography, I quickly realized how important a neutral density (ND) filter can be—especially one that fits my 82mm lenses. Over time, I learned what to look for to get the best results without breaking the bank. Here’s my personal guide to help you choose the right 82mm ND filter for your needs.
Understanding What an 82mm Neutral Density Filter Is
An ND filter reduces the amount of light entering your camera lens without affecting the color of the image. The 82mm refers to the filter’s diameter, so it fits lenses with an 82mm thread size. Using an ND filter lets me shoot with slower shutter speeds or wider apertures even in bright conditions, which is perfect for creative effects like motion blur or shallow depth of field.
Choosing the Right ND Filter Strength
ND filters come in different strengths, usually measured in stops (e.g., ND2, ND4, ND8, ND64). The higher the number, the darker the filter. When I started, I went for a variable ND filter because it gives me flexibility from 2 to 8 stops. But if you want very precise control, fixed-strength filters are great too. Think about what kind of shots you want—long exposure waterfalls need stronger ND filters, while portrait shots in bright sunlight might only require a lighter one.
Fixed vs. Variable ND Filters
I debated between fixed and variable ND filters. Fixed ND filters have a set light reduction and often provide better image quality with fewer artifacts. Variable ND filters let me adjust the darkness, which is handy when lighting conditions change quickly. However, I noticed that cheaper variable filters sometimes create a cross pattern in the image. So, if you go variable, invest in a reputable brand.
Filter Material and Coating
The material of the ND filter affects durability and image quality. I prefer filters made with optical glass because they maintain sharpness and reduce distortion. Coatings are equally important—they help minimize reflections, lens flare, and water or dust buildup. When buying, I look for multi-coated filters as they improve contrast and color accuracy in my photos.
Compatibility with Your Lens
Since this guide is about 82mm ND filters, make sure your lens has an 82mm filter thread. If you have multiple lenses with different thread sizes, consider getting step-up or step-down rings to use a single filter across all your lenses. This saved me money and simplified my gear.
Brand Reputation and Price
I’ve tried both budget and premium ND filters. While cheaper options can be tempting, I found that they sometimes introduce color casts or reduce sharpness. Brands like B+W, Tiffen, Hoya, and PolarPro consistently deliver quality. It’s worth investing a bit more for a filter that won’t disappoint, especially if you shoot professionally or frequently.
Additional Features to Consider
- Slim Profile: I prefer slim ND filters to avoid vignetting, especially on wide-angle lenses.
- Filter Case: A sturdy case protects the filter when I’m on the move.
- Water and Scratch Resistance: Filters with these features stay cleaner and last longer.
My Final Tips
- Always check your lens thread size before purchasing.
- Start with a versatile ND filter if you’re new, then expand your collection based on your shooting style.
- Read reviews and watch sample images taken with the filter you’re considering.
- Handle your filter carefully and clean it with proper tools to maintain image quality.
I hope my experience helps you find the perfect 82mm neutral density filter that elevates your photography!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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