Kenko PRO1D Smart Variable NDX3-450 72mm Filter Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Kenko PRO1D Smart Variable NDX3-450 filter is designed to reduce the amount of light entering your camera lens. This allows for greater creative control in various lighting conditions, enabling longer shutter speeds or wider apertures than typically possible in bright environments. This variable neutral density filter offers adjustable light reduction, eliminating the need to carry multiple fixed ND filters.

This manual provides essential information for the proper use, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Kenko PRO1D Smart Variable NDX3-450 filter.

2. Product Overview

The Kenko PRO1D Smart Variable NDX3-450 filter offers a stepless concentration adjustment from ND3 to ND450, providing flexibility for various photographic and videographic applications.

Figure 1: Kenko PRO1D Smart Variable NDX3-450 filter with its packaging.

Figure 2: Close-up view of the Kenko PRO1D Smart Variable NDX3-450 filter, highlighting the minimum and maximum density markings.

Key Features:

• Wider Aperture: Enables the use of wider apertures in bright conditions by reducing light intake.
• Longer Exposure: Allows for extended shutter speeds without overexposure, ideal for motion blur effects.
• Reduced Vignetting: Designed to minimize vignetting by replacing the need for stacked ND filters.
• Easy Operation: Density adjustment is achieved by simply rotating the outer filter ring.

3. Setup

To attach the Kenko PRO1D Smart Variable NDX3-450 filter to your camera lens:

1. Ensure your camera lens has a filter thread size of 72mm.
2. Carefully align the filter's rear thread with the lens's front thread.
3. Gently rotate the filter clockwise until it is securely fastened. Avoid overtightening.

Note on Filter Diameter: The front filter screw diameter of the PRO1D Smart Variable NDX is one size larger than the rear (lens-side) diameter. For example, a 72mm filter will have a larger front thread. This design helps to prevent vignetting, especially when using wide-angle lenses.

Figure 3: Illustration demonstrating that the front filter screw diameter is one size larger than the rear diameter to minimize vignetting.

4. Operating Instructions

The variable neutral density feature allows you to adjust the light reduction level to suit your photographic needs.

Adjusting Density:

• Once attached to your lens, rotate the outer ring of the filter to adjust the density.
• The filter has markings for 'Min' and 'Max' to indicate the range of adjustment.
• Rotate towards 'Min' for less light reduction (brighter image) and towards 'Max' for more light reduction (darker image).

Figure 4: A hand demonstrating the rotation of the front frame for stepless density adjustment.

Density Range and Considerations:

The filter provides a variable density range from ND3 to ND450. However, the effective usable range without potential artifacts can vary depending on your lens's focal length.

• When attached to a 35mm focal length lens, the filter is typically available from ND3 to ND32 without significant issues.
• For lenses with shorter focal lengths, an 'X-shaped' pattern or uneven darkening may appear at densities thinner than ND32. This is a characteristic of variable ND filters at their extreme settings.
• For lenses with longer focal lengths, the filter can be used up to an equivalent of ND450, depending on the specific focal length.

Figure 5: Visual representation of the ND density range and notes on potential X-pattern with shorter focal lengths.

Application Examples:

The variable ND filter is useful for achieving specific photographic effects:

• Long Exposure Photography: Create silky smooth water effects or blur moving clouds in bright daylight.
• Controlling Depth of Field: Use wider apertures (e.g., f/1.4, f/2.8) in bright conditions to achieve shallow depth of field for portraits, without overexposing the image.
• Video Production: Maintain a cinematic shutter speed (e.g., 1/50th or 1/60th of a second) even in bright outdoor settings, matching the 180-degree rule for natural motion blur.

Figure 6: A comparison shot of a globe, illustrating the effect of the PRO1D Smart Variable NDX filter versus no filter, demonstrating light reduction.

Figure 7: A comparison shot of ocean waves, demonstrating the long exposure effect achieved with the PRO1D Smart Variable NDX filter versus no filter.

5. Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance will extend the life and performance of your Kenko ND filter.

Cleaning the Filter:

• Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical lenses.
• For dust, use a blower brush to gently remove particles before wiping.
• For smudges or fingerprints, apply a small amount of lens cleaning solution to the cloth (not directly to the filter) and wipe gently in a circular motion from the center outwards.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the filter's coating.

Storage:

• Store the filter in its protective case when not in use to prevent scratches and dust accumulation.
• Keep the filter in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your variable ND filter.

Common Issues and Solutions:

• Uneven Darkening or 'X-Pattern':
  This is a known characteristic of variable ND filters, especially at their maximum density settings or when used with wide-angle lenses. To mitigate this, reduce the density setting slightly or use a longer focal length lens.
• Color Shift/Cast:
  Some variable ND filters may introduce a slight color cast, often a warm tone. This can typically be corrected during post-processing by adjusting the white balance.
• Vignetting (Dark Corners):
  While the filter is designed to minimize vignetting with its larger front diameter, it can still occur, particularly with extremely wide-angle lenses or when stacking additional filters. Ensure no other filters are stacked, and if persistent, consider cropping in post-processing or using a wider filter size if available for your lens.
• Filter Stuck on Lens:
  If the filter becomes difficult to remove, avoid forcing it. Try using a rubber filter wrench or a rubber band wrapped around the filter ring to improve grip and gently twist counter-clockwise.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Kenko is a Japanese brand with over 65 years of experience in photographic and optical products, known for strict quality control and diverse product offerings.

For product support, additional information, or warranty inquiries, please visit the official Kenko website:

Kenko Global Filters Website

Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.