Behind the Lens

2.6Through Colored Glass: Lens Filtration

For many videographers, the farthest they delve into lens filtration is a UV filter constantly affixed to their lens. Filters, for many, seem to be a terrifying undiscovered country. In this column, I’ll try to demystify the art and science of lens filtration.

Filters come primarily in two main shapes: circular and square (or rectangular). Circular filters are designed to screw directly onto the threaded rings on your lens whereas square filters require a mattebox to hold them in place. The benefit to certain square filters is that you can position them more precisely in front of the lens. This is beneficial for graduated filters that have transitions from one effect to another or from a clear to effect ...