
( Brand: Polarpro ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: SG-EDLL-67-6/9 ), ( Part Type: Filter ), ( Filter Shape: Circular ), ( Filter Effects: Neutral Density ), ( Filter Size: 67 Mm ), ( UPC: 817465026052 )
The **PolarPro SG-EDLL-67-6/9 Peter McKinnon VND Filter** is a high-performance, ultra-sharp 67mm glass filter designed specifically for videographers and photographers who demand the finest optical clarity and color accuracy in their work. Engineered under PolarPro s signature precision, this filter combines a **67mm diameter** with a **6/9 (6-stop) neutral density (ND) rating**, making it an indispensable tool for achieving seamless slow-motion footage, balanced exposures in bright lighting conditions, or creative long-exposure effects without sacrificing image quality. The **ED (Extra Low Dispersion) glass** ensures minimal chromatic aberration, delivering razor-sharp edges and true-to-life colors, even when shooting through wide-angle lenses or in challenging lighting scenarios. Its **low-profile, slim design** integrates seamlessly with most filter systems, including the popular **Peter McKinnon VND (Variable Neutral Density) filter system**, allowing for effortless stacking or pairing with other filters like polarizers or color graders. The **multi-coated optics** enhance light transmission while reducing reflections, ensuring maximum image clarity and vibrant, uncompromised visuals. Whether you re capturing cinematic slow-motion sequences, balancing harsh sunlight for cinematic flat lighting, or experimenting with artistic long exposures, this filter provides the versatility and reliability to elevate your footage to professional standards. Built to withstand rigorous use, it s a durable yet lightweight addition to any serious filmmaker s or photographer s toolkit, offering both practicality and artistic freedom in equal measure.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a PolarPro SG-EDLL-67-6/9 (Peter McKinnon VND Filter, 67mm)**
#### **Pros**
1. **High-Quality Glass with ED Elements**
The PolarPro SG-EDLL-67-6/9 features extra-low dispersion (ED) glass elements, which significantly reduce chromatic aberration. This results in sharper, more accurate colors and better clarity, especially in high-contrast scenes like landscapes or cityscapes.
2. **Peter McKinnon s VND (Variable Neutral Density) Design**
The filter incorporates a VND system, allowing photographers to adjust the ND strength from 2 stops to 9 stops in a single filter. This flexibility is ideal for long-exposure photography, as it eliminates the need to carry multiple ND filters. It also helps achieve smooth water effects, silky bokeh, and cinematic motion blur without changing filters mid-shoot.
3. **Polarizing Functionality**
The filter combines a variable ND with a polarizer, meaning it can also reduce glare and reflections from water, glass, or foliage. This dual functionality makes it versatile for various shooting conditions, such as beach, city, or macro photography.
4. **Durable and Weather-Sealed Construction**
PolarPro filters are known for their robust build quality, often featuring metal frames and multi-coatings to protect against scratches and moisture. The SG series is particularly well-regarded for durability, making it suitable for professional use in harsh environments.
5. **Easy to Use with a Rotating Front Element**
The VND system includes a rotating front element, allowing quick adjustments to ND strength without removing the filter from the lens. This is convenient for photographers who need to fine-tune exposures on the fly.
6. **Compatibility with Most Lens Sizes**
The 67mm size is versatile and works well with a wide range of lenses, though you may need an adapter ring for smaller or larger lens mounts. It s a popular size for mid-range lenses, making it a practical choice for many photographers.
7. **Good Light Transmission**
Unlike some ND filters that heavily darken the image, the SG-EDLL-67-6/9 maintains relatively high light transmission, ensuring that your sensor still captures detail even at higher ND settings.
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#### **Cons**
1. **Expensive Price Tag**
The PolarPro SG-EDLL-67-6/9 is a premium filter, and its cost may be prohibitive for beginners or hobbyists. A single VND polarizer filter can cost as much as or more than an entire entry-level lens, which might make budget-conscious photographers reconsider.
2. **Bulkiness and Weight**
The filter is larger and heavier than standard ND or polarizer filters due to its dual-function design and metal frame. This can add noticeable weight to your camera setup, especially if you re using it with a heavy lens.
3. **Potential for Lens Fogging**
Some photographers report that the rotating front element of VND filters can sometimes fog up the lens, especially in humid conditions. While this is rare, it s a minor inconvenience that requires occasional cleaning.
4. **Limited Availability of Adapter Rings**
While 67mm is a common size, adapter rings for other thread sizes (e.g., 58mm, 72mm) may not always be readily available from PolarPro or third-party sellers. You ll need to source them separately if your lens requires a different size.
5. **Learning Curve for VND Usage**
Adjusting the ND strength on the fly takes practice. Beginners might struggle initially with determining the correct setting for their exposure, leading to potential underexposure or overexposure if not used carefully.
6. **Not Ideal for All Genres**
While excellent for long exposures and polarizing effects, this filter may be overkill for genres like portrait or low-light photography where ND strength doesn t play a major role. In such cases, a simpler ND or polarizer filter might suffice.
7. **Potential for Ghosting or Flare**
Like all glass filters, the ED elements can sometimes introduce ghosting or flare in high-contrast scenes, though PolarPro s coatings are designed to minimize this issue.
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### **Conclusion**
The **PolarPro SG-EDLL-67-6/9 (Peter McKinnon VND Filter)** is a high-end, versatile tool that excels in long-exposure and polarizing photography. Its combination of ED glass, variable ND, and polarizing functions makes it a powerful asset for landscape, architectural, and cinematic photographers who prioritize flexibility and image quality. However, its cost, bulkiness, and complexity may not justify its purchase for every photographer, particularly those on a tight budget or shooting in genres where ND/polarizing functions are less critical.
If you frequently shoot long exposures, need a polarizer, and can afford the investment, this filter is an excellent choice. For casual photographers or those who only occasionally use ND or polarizing effects, a simpler filter (e.g., a fixed ND or polarizer) might be a more practical and cost-effective alternative.
### **Recommendation**
- **Buy it if:** You re a landscape or long-exposure photographer who wants a single filter to handle both ND and polarizing needs, and you re willing to invest in high-quality glass. The VND system saves time and reduces gear clutter.
- **Skip it if:** You re on a budget, shoot primarily in genres where ND/polarizing aren t essential (e.g., portraits, low-light), or prefer lighter, more compact filters. In that case, consider a **fixed ND filter** (e.g., Lee Filters or B W) or a **separate polarizer** instead.
- **Alternative Consideration:** If you like the VND concept but want to save money, look for **third-party VND filters** (e.g., from **K&F Concept** or **Breakthrough Photography**), though they may not match PolarPro s build quality or ED performance.
Never used and in pristine condition, without original packaging. PolarPro Peter McKinnon Signature Edition II VND Filter 67mm, 2-5 Stop.