Lightcraft Workshop Fader ND MKII

The FaderND Mark II Neutral Density Filter lets you set the strength of the filter by rotating the front in relation to the rear, like a polariser. The effect is variable from 2-9 stops, though there is a catch – its strength is limited by focal length and diminishes the wider you shoot.

Digital cameras and software have made many pieces of traditional photo kit redundant, but there are some you can’t do without – like Neutral Density filters. Used to cut out light and give you a greater choice of shutter speed or aperture, NDs are available in varying strengths, but normally you only get one strength per filter which is where the Lightcraft Workshop Fader ND MKII is special. With the filter attached to a 17-55mm lens on an APS-C format D-SLR, it gave us a maximum strength of 5 stops at 17mm. Beyond this a noticeable dark cross appears, due to the polarising effect. As you zoom in, the effect can be applied more strongly before the cross appears and at 55mm we recorded 8 stops. The full 9-stop effect is achieved at around 100mm. There are markings on the bezel showing the strength, but these are not indicative of actual stops, so your best bet is exposing by trial and error using your screen. Image sharpness was good with no vignetting and very little colour cast was seen. Although the Lightcraft Workshop Fader ND MKII offers an innovative way to control light, its limited strength at wide-angle means it’s not practical for landscape photographers seeking long exposures. We also found setting the filter’s strength a little vague, though the ability to compose and use AF with it attached is a bonus.

AT A GLANCE
Street Price: £99 (77mm fit)
Sizes available: 52-82mm
Weight: 60g (77mm fit)

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