
( Brand: Tiffen ), ( Part Type: Filter ), ( Filter Shape: Rectangular ), ( Square/rectangular Size: 4x5.65 ), ( Filter Effects: Infrared ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Filter Size: 4x5 In ), ( UPC: 049383207354 )
The Tiffen 049383207354 IRND (Infrared Neutral Density) filter is a precision-engineered optical accessory designed for photographers seeking to master the art of long-exposure and slow-shutter photography while maintaining full control over infrared sensitivity. This 5.65-inch (143mm) filter delivers a consistent 2-stop (0.6 optical density) neutral density reduction across the visible spectrum, allowing photographers to extend exposure times dramatically without altering the color balance of their images. Crafted from Tiffen s signature high-quality optical glass, this filter ensures minimal color shift, chromatic aberration, or light scatter, preserving the integrity of your lens s native performance. The IRND s neutral density characteristic means it uniformly attenuates all wavelengths of light from ultraviolet to infrared making it an indispensable tool for capturing smooth motion blur in daylight, achieving creamy water effects, or experimenting with infrared photography without the need for additional filters. Its robust, screw-in design ensures a secure fit on most standard lenses, while the durable, scratch-resistant coating protects against environmental wear, ensuring long-term reliability. Whether you re shooting architectural details, abstract motion studies, or infrared landscapes, this filter empowers you to push the boundaries of your creative vision with precision and clarity.
### Pros and Cons of buying a Tiffen 049383207354 IRND (Infrared Neutral Density) Filter (5.65" x 2-Stop, 0.6 Optical Density)
#### **Pros:**1. **Versatile Use in Infrared Photography** This filter is specifically designed for infrared (IR) photography, allowing photographers to capture images in the near-infrared spectrum (typically 720nm ), which can produce unique, ethereal, and high-contrast visuals. IR filters are popular in landscape, architectural, and artistic photography for their distinctive look.
2. **Optical Quality** Tiffen is a well-respected brand known for producing high-quality optical glass filters. This filter is made with precision-ground glass, minimizing color fringing and maintaining sharp image quality.
3. **Neutral Density (ND) Functionality** The 2-stop ND component (0.6 optical density) allows for slower shutter speeds during the day, enabling motion blur effects, longer exposures, or better control over depth of field without adjusting aperture or ISO. This is particularly useful in IR photography where long exposures can enhance details in foliage or water.
4. **Durability and Build** Tiffen filters are typically constructed with durable materials, including metal frames and screw-in or square mount options (depending on the model). This filter is likely built to withstand frequent use and harsh conditions.
5. **Compatibility with IR Photography Workflows** Since IR photography often requires specialized equipment (e.g., modified cameras or IR-specific lenses), having a dedicated IRND filter simplifies the process by combining IR and ND functions in one piece of glass.
6. **Creative Control** The filter enables photographers to experiment with IR effects while also managing light exposure, offering creative flexibility in composition and post-processing.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Limited to Infrared Photography** This filter is specialized for IR work, meaning it won t be useful for general photography. If you re not primarily interested in IR, the investment may not be justified.
2. **Cost** High-quality IR filters, especially from reputable brands like Tiffen, can be expensive. The price may be prohibitive for hobbyists or those testing IR photography before committing.
3. **Requires Compatible Equipment** To use this filter effectively, you ll need:- An IR-modified camera (or a camera with an IR-cut filter removed).
- An IR-sensitive lens (most modern lenses block IR, so you may need to use older lenses or convert them).
- A reliable IR light source (e.g., sunlight or specialized IR flashes) since IR photography often relies on near-infrared wavelengths that aren t visible to the human eye.
4. **Learning Curve** IR photography has unique challenges, such as finding the right balance between visible and IR light, dealing with false color in post-processing, and understanding how IR interacts with different surfaces (e.g., foliage appears bright white, while other elements may appear dark or distorted).
5. **Post-Processing Requirements** IR images often require significant editing to achieve a natural or desired look. This includes adjusting white balance, removing false colors, and enhancing contrast, which may not be ideal for photographers who prefer minimal post-processing.
6. **Potential for Lens Flare or Ghosting** IR light can cause lens flare or ghosting in certain conditions, especially with reflective surfaces or bright light sources. This may require additional techniques (e.g., hoods, polarizers) to mitigate.
7. **Size and Weight** The 5.65" size is standard for many lenses, but if you shoot with smaller formats (e.g., micro four-thirds), you may need an adapter, adding bulk and cost.
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### **Conclusion:**The Tiffen 049383207354 IRND filter is a powerful tool for photographers who are deeply invested in infrared photography and want to combine IR effects with the creative possibilities of neutral density control. Its optical quality, durability, and versatility make it a strong choice for those who have already invested in IR-compatible equipment and are looking to refine their IR workflow.
However, for photographers who are new to IR photography or primarily shoot in visible light, the filter s specialized nature and cost may not be worth the investment. If you re unsure about committing to IR, consider starting with a cheaper IR filter or testing IR effects with a modified camera and a basic IR pass filter before purchasing a high-end IRND combo.
### **Recommendation:**- **Buy it if:** You are already engaged in infrared photography, have the necessary IR-modified camera and lenses, and want to enhance your IR workflow with ND capabilities for creative effects like motion blur or long exposures.
- **Avoid it if:** You are new to IR photography, don t have the right equipment, or primarily shoot in visible light. In such cases, focus on building your IR setup step-by-step or explore other creative filters that offer broader applicability.
- **Alternative Consideration:** If you re interested in ND effects without IR, a standalone ND filter (e.g., a 10-stop ND) might be more versatile. If IR is your focus but you want to save costs, look for a basic IR pass filter (e.g., 720nm) first to experiment before investing in a high-end IRND combo.
Most filters appear like new. Any unsealed filters have slight signs of use but seems in very good condition. I kept some sets for myself, getting rid of the remaining inventory. Each filter retails for around $500 EACH.
Condition: I've been blown away by the condition. I can't notice any imperfections on the filters that are sealed in plastic other than a bit of bar code sticker side being slightly scratched off some. Since I did not acquire these directly from the manufacturer cannot claim that sealed filters are indeed brand new, nevertheless, they look great. USA BUYERS ONLY - ALL 50 STATES.
If you want standard non-IR Tiffen ND, I have a set available that haven't listed yet. Buyer is purchasing as-is condition. Feel free to message with any questions. IRND Filters / ND Neutral Density Filter Tiffen 4x5.65.
Send me a message if interested for pricing and I can list it. May have been the manufacturers doing.