TIFFEN 405DF18 Double Fog Glass Filter Mfr 40.5MM 1/8

( Brand: Tiffen ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 405DF18 ), ( Part Type: Glass Filter ), ( Filter Shape: Circular ), ( Filter Color: Clear ), ( Item Height: 40.5mm ), ( Filter Effects: Fog ), ( Mount Fitting: Threaded ), ( Country Of Origin: Germany ), ( Filter Size: 40.5 Mm ), ( To Fit: Camera ), ( Item Weight: 0.13 Pounds )

Review TIFFEN New 40.5mm Double Fog 1/8 Glass Filter Mfr #405df18

The Tiffen 405DF18 40.5mm Double Fog 1/8 (3-stop) glass filter is a versatile and high-quality optical tool designed to enhance the creative possibilities of photographers working in both film and digital formats. Crafted from premium optical glass, this filter is engineered to deliver exceptional clarity and color fidelity, ensuring that every shot retains its natural vibrancy while introducing a subtle, diffused softness to the image. The Double Fog effect is achieved through a carefully balanced combination of two layers of fine, evenly distributed fog, which gently blurs fine details without compromising overall sharpness. This creates a dreamy, ethereal quality that is particularly effective in portraiture, wedding photography, and landscape work, where a soft, romantic atmosphere is desired. The 3-stop neutral density (ND) component of the filter further expands its utility, allowing photographers to extend their shutter speeds in bright lighting conditions ideal for capturing smooth waterfalls, silky bokeh in nightscapes, or creative motion effects without relying on polarizers or other ND filters. With a robust metal frame and a precise 40.5mm diameter, this filter fits seamlessly into most professional filter systems, including step-up and step-down rings, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of lenses. Whether used alone for its subtle diffusion or paired with other Tiffen filters for layered effects, the 405DF18 is a reliable companion for those seeking to elevate their photography with a touch of artistic ambiguity and controlled softness. Its durable construction and optical precision make it a long-lasting investment for photographers who demand both performance and versatility in their creative toolkit.

The Tiffen 405DF18 (40.5mm) Double Fog 1/8 (12.5%) neutral density filter is a versatile tool for photographers, particularly those working in film or digital photography where creative control over exposure and depth of field is important. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros**

1. **Neutral Density (ND) Functionality**

The filter reduces light entering the lens by 12.5% (one stop), allowing photographers to use slower shutter speeds during bright daylight conditions. This is particularly useful for:

- Long-exposure photography (e.g., silky water, light trails, or motion blur).

- Creating shallow depth of field in bright light without increasing ISO or opening the aperture excessively, which can soften image quality.

- Film photography, where slower shutter speeds can enhance grain or achieve specific artistic effects.

2. **Double Fog Effect**

The "Double Fog" designation refers to a subtle, graduated density that transitions smoothly from clear to fully darkened. This creates a natural-looking soft transition rather than a harsh cutoff, which is ideal for:

- Simulating the look of a soft, natural gradient (e.g., mimicking the effect of shooting into the sun without lens flare).

- Adding a subtle vignette or atmospheric effect without overpowering the image.

- Achieving a dreamy, cinematic look in landscapes or portraits.

3. **High-Quality Optics**

Tiffen is a well-respected brand known for producing high-quality glass filters with minimal color cast or distortion. The 1/8 density is subtle enough to avoid overpowering the image while still providing noticeable effects.

4. **Versatility**

- Landscape photography (e.g., long exposures of clouds or water).

- Portrait photography (e.g., shallow depth of field in bright outdoor lighting).

- Videography (for cinematic slow-motion effects).

- Film photography (where precise exposure control is critical).

5. **Durability and Build**

Tiffen filters are generally robust, made from high-quality glass with metal or resin frames. The 40.5mm size is standard for many lenses, making it compatible with a wide range of equipment.

6. **No Color Cast**

Unlike some cheaper filters, Tiffen s Double Fog series is designed to maintain a neutral gray density without introducing unwanted color shifts, which is important for maintaining accurate white balance.

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### **Cons**

1. **Cost**

Tiffen filters, especially high-quality ones like this, are more expensive than generic or budget alternatives. For occasional use, the investment may not be justified.

2. **Size Limitations**

The 40.5mm size is not universal it may not fit lenses with smaller or larger filter threads (e.g., some mirrorless lenses or ultra-wide-angle lenses). You may need additional adapters or step-up rings, adding to the cost.

3. **Weight and Bulk**

Carrying multiple filters can be cumbersome, especially if you re traveling light. The Double Fog series is slightly heavier than plain ND filters due to its graduated design.

4. **Potential for Overuse**

The subtle nature of the Double Fog effect means it may not dramatically alter your images. If you re looking for a strong, dramatic gradient (e.g., a hard cutoff like a Lee Big Stopper), this filter may feel too mild.

5. **Compatibility with Digital Sensors**

While the filter works well with digital cameras, some photographers report that very subtle ND effects (like 1/8 or 1/4 density) can be harder to notice in post-processing compared to stronger densities. This may not be an issue for film shooters, who rely on in-camera effects.

6. **Alternative Solutions**

For long exposures, some photographers prefer using variable ND filters or shooting in RAW to adjust exposure later. The Double Fog filter is a physical solution, which may not be necessary if you re comfortable with digital editing.

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### **Conclusion**

The Tiffen 405DF18 Double Fog 1/8 filter is a high-quality, versatile tool that excels in scenarios where subtle control over exposure and depth of field is desired. Its graduated density adds a natural, cinematic quality to images without being overly intrusive. The filter is particularly well-suited for photographers who prioritize optical quality, work in film, or seek a more organic alternative to harsh ND gradients.

However, its cost, size limitations, and subtle effect may not justify the purchase for every photographer. If you re primarily shooting digitally and rarely need ND effects, a cheaper or variable ND filter might suffice. For film photographers, landscape shooters, or those experimenting with long exposures, this filter is a worthwhile investment.

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### **Recommendation**

- You work with film or prioritize in-camera effects.

- You frequently shoot in bright light and need subtle ND control for slow shutter speeds or shallow depth of field.

- You appreciate the natural, soft gradient effect and want to avoid harsh transitions.

- You value Tiffen s reputation for optical quality and are willing to pay for a durable, high-performance filter.

- You have a lens with a 40.5mm filter thread (or are willing to invest in adapters).

- You re on a tight budget and only need occasional ND effects (a cheaper 1/4 or 1/2 ND filter may suffice).

- You primarily shoot digitally and prefer editing flexibility (a variable ND filter or post-processing adjustments might work better).

- You need stronger gradients or hard cutoffs (consider a Lee Big Stopper or similar).

- You shoot with lenses that don t support 40.5mm filters (check compatibility before purchasing).

For most photographers who value quality and versatility, this filter is a strong choice especially when paired with other Tiffen filters for a complete set. If you re unsure, test it out by borrowing one or renting before committing to purchase.

Details:

New Tiffen 40.5mm Double Fog 1/8 Glass Filter MFR #405DF18: The simulates the effects of natural fog or mist by creating a soft glow around highlights and lowering overall contrast scene. The 4 density provides a noticeable amount of fog effect and requires no exposure compensation. Wood en Camera, Small HD. Does not require exposure compensation to make up for filter effect.

Creates a fog-like effect with dramatically lowered overall contrast. Tiffen filters are made using Color Core technology, a process that involves laminating the filter substrate between 2 pieces of optical glass, grinding flat to tolerance 1/10,000th an inch, and then mounting precision metal rings. Shipping Handling Information. Schneider, Tiffen and more.

Maintains greater sharpness and is less affected by highlight-flare than the standard Fog filter. 4 density gives a noticeable fog effect. Trans Film is specialized in Sales, Service, Rentals of Camera Support Equipment such as Sachet, O'Connor, Vintner, Carton, Miller, Libel, Manfred, Arr, Mitchell, Trade, Anton Bauer, Core, Swot. When compared to the standard Fog filter, this filter places greater emphasis on lowering contrast while maintaining sharpness and minimizing effects of flare.

part #: 405df18 prices

• $40.00-$55.90

specifications filtecam:

• brand: Tiffen
• mpn: 405df18
• part type: Glass Filter
• filter shape: Circular
• filter color: Clear
• item height: 40.5mm
• filter effects: Fog
• mount fitting: Threaded
• country of origin: Germany
• filter size: 40.5 Mm
• to fit: Camera
• item weight: 0.13 Pounds

shipping filtecam:

• class: Standard, One-day
• transit: 4-8 Days
• cost: $5.50
• service: USPS Ground Advantage, FedEx Standard Overnight
• type: Fixed
• carrier: USPS, FedEx

returns filtecam:

• policy: Returns Accepted
• method: Money back
• paid by: Buyer
• time: 30 Days

seller filtecam:

• city: North Hollywood, California
• # reviews: 56681
• rating: 99.8%

payments filtecam:

• other
• credit card: Diners-club
• wallet: Google-pay

offer filtecam:

• options: Ship-to-home
• sold: 0
• availability: In Stock
• quantity: 1
• started: March 11, 2026

general filtecam:

• Cameras Photo > Lenses Filters > Filters
• condition: New

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