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NiSi Filters PRO Nano Variable ND x1.5 - 5 Stops

While somewhat useful to stills photographers, variable ND filters are an indispensable tool for filmmakers. This filter allows quick and easy manipulation of the exposure in order to achieve the desired aperture and shutter speed when there is too much light.

Original price R 2,999.00 - Original price R 4,799.00
Original price
R 2,999.00
R 2,999.00 - R 4,799.00
Current price R 2,999.00

Variable ND filters are made by mounting two polarisers facing each other and when turned, they progressively cut out more and more light. This can achieve an exposure reduction ranging from 1.5x – 10x stops, so why is this filter limited to a maximum of 5x stops exposure reduction? The problem with the double-polariser approach is that beyond a certain range, the darkening becomes very uneven across the frame, resulting in what is known as the x-effect. This is why most commercial film productions still make use of conventional ND filter sets.

A Variable ND filter does however still have a great place in the world if used within the limits of the x-effect, which is why NiSi have limited their offering to a 1.5x - 5.0x stop range. Compared to a conventional cinema ND filter set and matte box with filter trays, this filter costs about 5% of the price. It also offers instant manipulation of the exposure reduction by simply turning the filter and thanks to its compact size it is much more friendly to DSLR and mirrorless filmmakers.

This filter features NiSi's renowned scratch-resistant and hydrophobic nano-coating, which ensures that it lasts and makes it quick and easy to clean. It also features a pin on the side that makes it easy to rotate from behind the camera.

Don't like the rotation pin? While it is a screwing pin, it is also held in place with a small amount of thread-lock glue and is generally too stiff to remove with your fingers. Simply unscrew it using pliers and it will come loose easily. If you want to remount it, just use a small amount of thread-lock to fix it back in place. Thread-lock glue is very cheap and available from any hardware store.

Is there any X-effect at 5 stops?

If you set out to look for it, you will encounter a hint of the X-effect at 5 stops... if you use an ultra-wide lens and you shoot against a clean background. Our staff have used this filter for countless video productions and we have been selling it for a year, without noticing the X-effect in any of our videos or receiving one complaint about it from a customer. So while you might find it if you really look for it, it simply doesn't show up in practical use.

Is the pin on the side removable?

This pin acts as an easy handle for turning the filter quickly, but not everyone likes it. The good news is that it is simply screwed in and secured with threadlock. You’ll struggle to get it out with your fingers, but a soft turn with pliers gets it out. If you want to reattach it, just dip the thread in threadlock and screw it back in. (Threadlock is available at any hardware store for about R20-50. Usually a tiny blue bottle)

1. FREE Standard Shipping

Free Economy Shipping is available on all orders exceeding R8,000.(T's&C's apply)

*Terms and conditions to qualify for free shipping:

  • Shipping may only be to a physical address within the borders of South Africa. No P.O Box's allowed.
  • Shipping to outlying or remote areas like farms and game reserves may attract an additional fee.
  • The delivery time to city areas is usually between 2 and 4 working days*. This excludes weekends and public holidays

2. Courier Guy Courier Service (local)

We use Courier Guy couriers as our preferred method of delivery.

Your parcel is well packaged and handled with care while in transit.

Delivery Charges:

Shipping charges are all depended on the following:

  • Volumetric and Physical weight
  • Courier Option

If Item is in stock, your item can be delievered between 1-2 Business Days - Main Cities are: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Port Elizabeth and East London. Other cities/towns will take more than 1-2 delivery time.

If Item is being collected from our suppliers, you item can be deeilevr between 2-7 Business Days - To all areas.

If the item has been pre-ordered for you, this can take anything from 4 - 8 weeks.

*Reckoned from time of dispatch to time of arrival to client. This is an estimate and not guaranteed. This period does not include Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.

3. UPS Courier Service (International) Please note:

International orders are generally subject to local import duties and taxes (VAT)

DT Film Services is not responsible for, nor can we offer, any specific advice regarding any customs related fees that you may incur. For specific information, please consult with your local government import office.

Privacy: Your privacy is important to us. We strive to exceed your expectations for privacy. Cross-border shipments are subject to inspection by customs authorities. We may also be called upon to provide certain order, shipment, and product information to our international carriers. Carriers may communicate such information to customs authorities for the purpose of facilitating customs clearance and compliance with local laws.

Delivery Charges: 4. Collect from DT Film Services in Durban

You are welcome to place your order online, pay for it and collect it from our Durban branch. You will need to bring in a print out of the order for collection. Please ask for Louise in Sales on arrival.

DT Film Services - Durban

Open: Mon-Fri 8 to 5PM

5 Nunhead Road

Manor Gardens

Durban, 4001

South Africa

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Stock is going in and out all the time, so to be 100% sure that we have an item available, please phone (031) 261-6961 or email sales@dtfilmservices.com.