1. Introduction
The KODAK 49mm Schott Glass IR Neutral Density 1000 Filter is designed to control the amount of light entering your camera lens. This filter reduces light by 10 stops (ND1000), enabling longer exposure times and wider apertures in bright conditions. It is suitable for various photographic applications, including capturing motion blur, achieving shallow depth of field, and preventing overexposure.
Key features include:
- 10-Stop Light Reduction (ND1000): Allows for significantly slower shutter speeds and wider apertures.
- Multi-Coated Schott Glass: Features 16 layers of nano-coating for enhanced durability, reduced reflections, and improved image clarity.
- Infrared Reduction: Helps maintain color accuracy by reducing infrared pollution.
- Water and Oil Resistant: Protective coatings repel moisture and oils, simplifying cleaning.
- Ultra-Slim Frame: Designed to prevent vignetting, especially with wide-angle lenses.
Image 1: KODAK ND1000 Filter showcasing its effect on a landscape.
2. Setup
This section details how to properly attach the KODAK ND1000 filter to your camera lens.
- Identify Lens Thread Size: Ensure your camera lens has a 49mm filter thread. This information is usually printed on the front of your lens or on the lens cap.
- Remove Lens Cap: Carefully remove the lens cap from your camera lens.
- Clean Lens Surface: Before attaching the filter, gently clean the front element of your lens with a microfiber cloth to remove any dust or smudges.
- Attach the Filter: Align the KODAK ND1000 filter with the threads on your lens. Gently rotate the filter clockwise until it is securely fastened. Do not overtighten, as this can make removal difficult.
- Check for Secure Fit: Ensure the filter is firmly attached and does not wobble.
Image 2: The KODAK ND1000 filter and its retro storage case.
3. Operation
The ND1000 filter reduces light by 10 stops, meaning it allows 1/1024th of the light to pass through compared to no filter. This significant light reduction enables creative control over exposure in bright conditions.
3.1. Achieving Long Exposures
To create effects like silky smooth water or blurred clouds, you will need to use a slow shutter speed. The ND1000 filter makes this possible even in daylight.
- Mount Camera on Tripod: A tripod is essential for long exposure photography to prevent camera shake.
- Compose and Focus: Before attaching the ND1000 filter, compose your shot and achieve focus. Due to the extreme darkness of the filter, your camera's autofocus may struggle once it's attached. Switch to manual focus after focusing.
- Determine Base Exposure: Take a test shot without the filter to determine the correct exposure settings (ISO, aperture, shutter speed).
- Calculate New Shutter Speed: Multiply your base shutter speed by 1024 (or add 10 stops). For example, if your base shutter speed is 1/60th of a second, your new shutter speed with the ND1000 filter will be approximately 17 seconds (1/60 * 1024 ≈ 17 seconds). Many smartphone apps are available to assist with ND filter calculations.
- Attach Filter and Shoot: Carefully attach the ND1000 filter. Set your camera to the calculated shutter speed and take your photograph. Use a remote shutter release or the camera's self-timer to avoid vibrations.
3.2. Reducing Overexposure and Controlling Depth of Field
In very bright conditions, even at the lowest ISO and fastest shutter speed, your images might still be overexposed. The ND1000 filter allows you to use wider apertures (e.g., f/2.8, f/4) to achieve a shallow depth of field, even in bright sunlight, without overexposing the image.
- Attach the filter to your lens.
- Select your desired wide aperture.
- Adjust your ISO to the lowest setting.
- Your camera will automatically select a slower shutter speed to compensate for the reduced light, preventing overexposure while maintaining your chosen aperture.
Image 3: The multi-coated surface of the KODAK ND1000 filter, designed for minimal reflection and color loss.
4. Maintenance
Proper care and cleaning will extend the life and performance of your KODAK ND1000 filter.
4.1. Cleaning the Filter
- Remove Dust: Use a blower brush or a soft lens brush to gently remove any loose dust particles from the filter surface. Avoid wiping dry, as this can scratch the coating.
- Remove Smudges/Fingerprints: For smudges or fingerprints, use a clean, soft microfiber cleaning cloth (like the one included with your filter) and a small amount of lens cleaning solution. Apply the solution to the cloth, not directly to the filter.
- Wipe Gently: Wipe the filter surface in a circular motion from the center outwards. Do not apply excessive pressure.
- Air Dry: Allow the filter to air dry completely before storing it.
Note: The filter's water and oil-resistant coatings make cleaning easier, but proper technique is still important to prevent damage.
4.2. Storage
When not in use, store your KODAK ND1000 filter in its provided retro storage case to protect it from dust, scratches, and impacts.
Image 4: The KODAK ND1000 filter highlighting its water and oil resistant properties.
5. Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues you might encounter when using an ND1000 filter and how to address them.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Dark or Black Images | Incorrect exposure settings (shutter speed too fast, ISO too low). | Ensure you have correctly calculated the extended shutter speed. Increase shutter speed or slightly increase ISO if necessary, but be mindful of noise. |
| Overexposed Images | Shutter speed too slow for the ambient light, or aperture too wide. | Double-check your exposure calculations. Reduce shutter speed or narrow the aperture. |
| Vignetting (Dark Corners) | Using multiple filters, or filter frame is too thick for wide-angle lenses. | The KODAK ND1000 filter features an ultra-slim frame to minimize vignetting. If it occurs, try removing any other stacked filters. For extremely wide-angle lenses, some vignetting might still be present and can often be corrected in post-processing. |
| Color Cast | Some ND filters can introduce a slight color shift. | The KODAK ND1000 filter is designed with infrared reduction to minimize color cast. If a slight cast is observed, it can typically be corrected by adjusting the white balance in your camera settings or during post-processing. |
| Difficulty Focusing | The filter significantly darkens the scene, making it hard for autofocus systems. | Focus your lens before attaching the ND1000 filter. Once focused, switch your lens to manual focus (MF) mode before attaching the filter and taking the shot. |
Image 5: The ultra-slim frame of the KODAK ND1000 filter, designed to prevent vignetting.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | KODAK |
| Model Number | ROCPGPFILIRN149 |
| Filter Type | Infrared Neutral Density 1000 (ND1000) |
| Light Reduction | 10 Stops (1024x) |
| Material | Schott Glass |
| Coating | 16-Layer Nano Multi-Coating |
| Thread Size | 49 millimeters |
| Frame Material | Durable, lightweight aluminum |
| Water Resistance Level | Waterproof |
| Special Features | Infrared Reduction, Ultra-Slim Frame, Oil Resistant |
| Compatible Devices | Cameras with 49mm lens thread size (e.g., Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm) |
| Product Dimensions | 1.93"L x 1.93"W |
| GTIN (UPC) | 843812130899 |
7. Warranty Information
This KODAK filter comes with a 10-year warranty. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included in your product packaging or contact KODAK customer support.
Image 6: The complete KODAK ND1000 filter kit, including the filter, retro storage case, microfiber cleaning cloth, and user guide.
8. Customer Support
If you have any questions, require technical assistance, or need to make a warranty claim, please contact KODAK customer support through their official website or the contact information provided in your product documentation.
For additional resources and tips on using KODAK filters, visit the official KODAK Photo Gear website.