NiSi Filters review - Part 1

One for the photographers this time around. The only filters I use are neutral density, both full and graduated to control and balance the amount of light reaching the lens, and occasionally a circular polariser where appropriate. The choice of filters has long been dominated by a small number of companies offering very similar products of similar quality (both optical and build) and at a not insignificant price. Refreshing then to find a new brand coming to the UK market offering not only more choice but also something a little bit different from the established competition. 

I have taken delivery of a selection of products from Chinese manufacturer, NiSi. Anybody stuck in the 70s and still thinking that only products from the UK or the United States can possibly be of any merit had better think again. This is high end optical equipment with a really innovative design approach.

I'll be testing the NiSi V5 filter holder and circular polariser, ND1000, ND8 graduated, and ND8 reverse graduated filters. 

The innovation starts as soon as you open the packaging. Contained within  is a very smart leather case lined with a soft material to avoid scratching and fitted with a magnetic catch. Inside is the V5 filter holder which has a lens thread of 82mm, along with adaptor rings of 67mm, 72mm, and 77mm (with other brands these are usually  additional extras at additional cost) and a super slim circular polariser. The holder is no moulded plastic affair, rather a precision engineered item constructed from aviation grade aluminium. The polariser screws into the holder and being of slim dimensions, and being close to the lens avoids any 

risk of vignetting  when using wide angle lenses. The holder fits positively to the adaptor ring by means of a sprung knob and two locating lugs. Once fitted it seems very secure. How is the polariser rotated? by operating one of two small knurled wheels on the rim of the holder. This is a simple but elegant feature and it seems to work well. Three 100mm square style filters can be accommodated, and NiSi say that the holder is compatible with filters from other leading manufacturers.

I have used resin based filters for years and have discovered all too easily how vulnerable they are to scratching. They are also prone to attract dust due to static build up. The NiSi filters however, are made from high quality optical lens glass. What is described as a 'nano coating' is applied to both surfaces providing resistance to water and oil. Living and working in a coastal location, I'm particularly interested in this feature.
I've long been perplexed as to how some manufacturers supply their expensive filters in what is essentially a tin or plastic box. Once again, with the NiSi products an attention to detail shines through and each filter is supplied in a soft lined leather storage pouch with a magnetic closure. An information card on the outside clearly identifies the contents. 

One of the claims from NiSi is that their filters have a neutral colour cast. I'm looking forward to putting that to the test as I apply them 'in the field'. I'll be reporting back with my impressions of the equipment in use and providing more information on the actual filters in coming weeks.