Contrast Filters for Black & White Photography
Some photographers rely on post processing in Lightroom or Photoshop to convert their images to black and white. But many prefer the extra control and nuance offered by using contrast filters during shooting.
What is a black & white contrast filter?
Black and white contrast filters mount in front of your lens. They use a colored piece of glass to adjust how various colors will render in black and white. Black and white contrast filters come in red, yellow, orange, green, or blue.
These filters improve the contrast between colors that may otherwise render as very similar shades of gray. The right black and white contrast filter can add pop and separation to clouds, foliage, ground cover, and more. The same scene photographed with a red contrast filter vs. a green contrast filter can have a very different result in the final image.
Coating and material
Multi-coated filters eliminate flare, ghosting, and stray light. But they tend to be a little more expensive. Single-coated filters provide color filtration without affecting stray light. They are often more affordable.
Contrast filters for black and white photography are most commonly made of glass, polyester, or resin. Glass is the most traditional material, with the widest variety of size, color, and coating options to choose from.
Filter size and shape
Circular threaded filters screw onto the front of your lens. They are available in a range of sizes, from 37mm to 105mm. Select the right size by checking the filter ring size notation on the lens you plan to use.
Many photographers prefer rectangular filter systems for the ability to use the same filter across multiple lenses. Choose from common sizes like 5x5, 4x4, 6.6x6.6, and more.
Selecting the right color
The key to selecting the right colored filter is to pay attention to complementary colors. For example, red filters generally provide the most dramatic contrast for areas of blue and green in an image. They let red light through, rendering reds as a light gray. By contrast, blue and green light (red’s complementary color) is blocked, and therefore rendered as deeper, bolder shades of gray.
If you aren’t sure which color is ideal for your needs, our customer support team can answer questions about any of our black and white contrast filters. They’ll help you find the best option from top brands like B+W, Cokin, Heliopan, and Hoya.
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