Introduction
The Hoya Digital Filter Kit II provides three essential filters for photographers: a HMC UV(C) filter, a Circular Polarizer filter, and an ND8 Neutral Density filter. This kit is designed to enhance your photography by protecting your lens and controlling light in various shooting conditions. This manual provides guidance on the proper use and care of your filter kit.
Product Components
Your Hoya 77mm Digital Filter Kit II includes the following items:
- HMC UV(C) Filter: A multi-coated ultraviolet filter for lens protection and haze reduction.
- Circular Polarizer (CIR-PL) Filter: Used to reduce reflections and enhance color saturation.
- ND8 Neutral Density Filter: Reduces light by 3 stops for creative exposure control.
- Filter Case: A protective pouch for storing and transporting your filters.
Setup
To attach a filter to your camera lens:
- Ensure your camera lens has a 77mm filter thread. This information is typically printed on the front of your lens or in its manual.
- Carefully align the filter's threads with the lens's filter threads.
- Gently screw the filter clockwise onto the lens. Turn until it is secure, but avoid overtightening, as this can make removal difficult.
- To stack filters, attach the first filter to the lens, then screw the second filter onto the first filter's front thread. Be aware that stacking multiple filters may introduce vignetting (darkening at the corners of the image), especially with wide-angle lenses.
Operating Instructions
HMC UV(C) Filter
This filter is designed to block ultraviolet light, which can cause a bluish cast or haze in photographs, particularly in outdoor and high-altitude environments. It also serves as a protective barrier for your valuable lens against dust, scratches, and minor impacts. The HMC UV(C) filter does not significantly affect exposure or color balance, making it suitable for permanent attachment to your lens.
Circular Polarizer (CIR-PL) Filter
The Circular Polarizer filter is used to reduce reflections from non-metallic surfaces such as water, glass, and wet foliage. It also enhances color saturation and contrast, making skies appear deeper blue and clouds more defined. To use this filter:
- Attach the CIR-PL filter to your lens.
- While looking through your camera's viewfinder or at the LCD screen, rotate the outer ring of the filter.
- Observe the effect as you rotate; reflections will diminish, and colors will become more vibrant. Stop rotating when the desired effect is achieved.
- The polarizing effect is most pronounced when shooting at a 90-degree angle to the sun.
ND8 Neutral Density Filter
The ND8 filter reduces the amount of light entering the lens by 3 stops, which is equivalent to an 8-fold reduction in light intensity. This allows for the use of slower shutter speeds or wider apertures in bright lighting conditions. Applications include:
- Motion Blur: Create silky smooth effects in moving water (e.g., waterfalls, rivers) or streaky clouds.
- Shallow Depth of Field: Achieve a narrow depth of field (blurred background) in bright sunlight by allowing wider aperture settings.
- Long Exposures: Capture long exposure photographs during daylight hours.
The filter factor is 8, with a transmissivity of 12.5% and a density of 0.9.
Maintenance
Proper care and cleaning will prolong the life and performance of your Hoya filters:
- Dust Removal: Use a lens blower brush to remove loose dust particles from the filter surface.
- Cleaning Smudges: For fingerprints or smudges, use a clean, soft, lint-free microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical surfaces. Apply a small amount of lens cleaning solution to the cloth, not directly to the filter, and gently wipe the surface in a circular motion from the center outwards.
- Avoid Abrasives: Never use abrasive materials, paper towels, or harsh chemical cleaners, as these can damage the filter's coatings.
- Storage: When not in use, store your filters in the provided filter case to protect them from dust, scratches, and impacts.
Troubleshooting
- Vignetting (Dark Corners): If dark corners appear in your images, especially with wide-angle lenses or when stacking multiple filters, this is known as vignetting. Try removing stacked filters or using a thinner filter frame if available.
- Difficulty Attaching/Removing Filter: Ensure the filter is aligned correctly with the lens thread before screwing it on. Do not force it. If a filter is stuck, try using a rubber grip or a filter wrench for gentle removal.
- Unwanted Reflections/Glare: While the Circular Polarizer helps, some reflections may persist. Adjust your shooting angle relative to the light source and the reflective surface. Ensure the filter is clean and free of smudges.
- Poor Image Sharpness: Ensure the filter is clean and free of dust or smudges. A dirty filter can degrade image quality.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Hoya |
| Model Number | YKITDG077 |
| Photo Filter Thread Size | 77 Millimeters |
| Material | Aluminium Optical Glass |
| Coating Description | Multi Coating |
| Photo Filter Effect Type | Neutral Density, Polarizer |
| Photo Filter Factor (ND8) | 8x (3 stops) |
| Number of Pieces | 3 (UV, CIR-PL, ND8) |
| Product Dimensions | 3.03"L x 3.03"W |
| Item Weight | 1 Grams (per filter, approximate) |
| Compatible Devices | Cameras with 77mm lens filter thread size |
| UPC | 240660628880, 024066051950, 024066059024 |
Warranty Information
Hoya products are manufactured to high quality standards. For specific warranty details, including coverage period and terms, please refer to the documentation included with your original purchase. It is recommended to retain your proof of purchase for any potential warranty claims.
Support
For further assistance, product information, or technical support regarding your Hoya Digital Filter Kit II, please visit the official Hoya website or contact their customer service department. You can also find more information and products at the official Hoya Store:
