When to Use Square and Modular Filters
You are probably familiar with the standard filters that you screw onto the end of your lens. You’ve got your classic variable ND, the tried and true CPL, and a UV filter (or protection). These are all amazing, and while screw-on filters are both convenient and versatile, for those of us who are die-hard landscape photographers, a set of square and modular filters is definitely worth looking into.
Benefits of Square Filters
Right off the top, when working with single stops of ND you are eliminating the chance of cross-polarization occurring, an inherent characteristic of many variable ND filters regardless of the quality of glass. This happens when you have rotated the Variable ND beyond its usable range and an “X” pattern may appear across your image. Single-stop filters do exist in circular offerings and for many, these will function very well but if you need to stack multiple filters you may begin to notice some vignetting occurring at the edges of your image. Focal length will be a major factor in whether or not this occurs but if you find yourself shooting ultra-wide images, then you may encounter this issue. Square filters are a resolution to both of these problems, as their coverage is far greater than that of designated circular filters.
An intangible benefit of square filters is the way in which they force you to slow down. Speed is not always needed and, in the case of landscape photography, slowing down can lead to better image making. Single stops of ND force you to interact with your camera and scene to get the desired exposure level. In a very literal sense, they slow you down and yes that’s a good thing!
I’m sure we have all experienced that sense of rushing to get an image in a panic that the conditions may change or we simply get ahead of ourselves. You scramble to get your camera set up and you send a few down range. Taking a look at the images, you realize your composition is off or you didn't take the necessary time to expose properly. It may sound overdramatic, but I promise, sometimes having gear that slows down the process is a good thing.
Using a square or modular filter system also opens up the possibility of using graduated ND filters. These are an incredibly useful tool when you are looking to expose sections of your image differently. Maybe your foreground is naturally more shadowed while your background needs to be darkened. This is a perfect scenario to implement a graduated filter as you can achieve a more desired exposure level for both. Although exposure bracketing can be used as a means to balance exposure, we always recommend shooting the best image you can in camera rather than having to do more work in the edit.
What’s Right for You?
With such a wide array of tools and accessories available to the modern creator, it can be hard to discern what you really need and what you don’t. No matter what level of photography you engage in, filters are bound to be a part of your process. Our HGX Prime Square filters are designed for those looking to create the absolute best and highest quality photos without sacrificing any image quality. If you are serious about landscape photography we highly recommend giving them a look. Not only will they help preserve the quality of your images but can aid in the process and art of landscape photography.
