ARRI now has a line of FSND filters, which stands for Full Spectrum Neutral Density. You might be thinking: there are many choices for ND filters, so what makes these filters unique? Typically, filters are composed of two pieces of optical glass with filtration sandwiched between them. For these filters, ARRI applies the filtration directly to the surface of high-quality optical glass. They are then coated with a protective surface that helps prevent scratching and makes for quick cleaning.

Schneider has pushed ND filter technology forward with their line of Full Spectrum ND filters. As the name implies, these ND filters take into account the full spectrum of possible IR contamination. Previously, ND filters addressed the IR contamination that sensors captured in certain shooting conditions, but with a shift in dark colors. Full Spectrum ND filters are designed to complement refinements in sensor manufacturing that help address IR contamination.

This year’s Cine Gear Expo was definitely one of the most eventful ones. From new camera announcements to the latest in lighting technology and more, there was a little something for everyone to get excited about. In that vein, we’ve rounded up some of the most relevant coverage — both from our own specialists as well as our friends over at Newsshooter.

In this video, I chat with Ron Engvaldsen from Schneider Optics about their new RHOdium Full Spectrum Neutral Density filters. Traditional ND filters have used organic dyes, with naturally varying densities and changes in spectral transmission over time. Schneider’s new filters aim for ruler-flat spectral response over the entire visible spectrum and down into near-infrared.

With today's modern camera sensors being so sensitive to light, we often have to use ND filters. Traditional ND filters are designed to neutrally reduce all light, but will not adequately cut the infrared or far red light that causes problems in many cameras.

Several months ago, Sony released a new user-changeable 2K optical low pass filter for their F5 and F55 cameras. The filters are incredibly easy to swap out by loosening just a single Philips screw in the upper right hand corner (yellow arrow in first picture above) of the filter. Simply slide the 4K filter to the right, and pull it away from the camera. The 2K filter then snaps right in, slides to the right, and is held in place with the same Philips screw.

There are definitely some unique filtration needs that arise from using today's large-sensor cameras. I stopped by Tiffen's NAB booth and talked with Sandie Stern about their new filter offerings, such as their IRND Polarizers.

On November 20, AbelCine held the first event in its new EXPO series: Filters for Digital Cinema. Tiffen, Schneider Optics, and Formatt participated and scores of clients attended or watched via Livestream. One of the more significant discussions was on the topic of IR pollution control.