Cinematographer
Aus DoP-Perspektive ist dieses Element essentiell für die visuelle Gestaltung. Es ermöglicht mir die gewünschte Farbstimmung und das ästhetische Bild konsistent umzusetzen.
Extremely dense lens filter that reduces sunlight intensity, enabling direct filming or photography of the sun (typically ND100000 / density 5.0).
Overview
A solar filter (German: Sonnenfilter) is an accessory filter for the camera lens used to directly capture the sun and solar eclipses without overloading the sensor and shutter. Unlike normal graduated filters, this is not about image composition but about massive darkening: an unprotected telephoto lens concentrates sunlight so strongly that it can damage the shutter or sensor in seconds.
Solar filters differ from ordinary ND filters (neutral density filters) for waterfalls or long exposures primarily due to their extreme density. A typical solar filter blocks more than 99.99% of incoming light, as well as UV and infrared components.
Types
- Optical Glass Filters (Screw-in or Drop-in Filters): Coated round glass filters that screw onto the lens like a normal filter. Common strengths are ND100000 (Density 5.0), e.g., from Hoya (ProND-100000), NiSi, or K&F Concept. Some manufacturers offer even denser variants up to ND1000000 (20 stops).
- Foil/Sheet Filters ("White-Light" Foil): Special solar protection foil (e.g., Baader AstroSolar OD 5.0, DayStar) that is cut to size and mounted in a holder in front of the front lens element. These foils are often also approved for direct solar observation, not just for shooting.
Both types are positioned in front of the lens (front aperture), not behind it.
Technical Data
| Parameter | Typical Value (ND100000) |
|---|---|
| Optical Density | 5.0 |
| Light Reduction | approx. 16.5–16.6 stops |
| Transmission | approx. 0.001 % |
For direct solar recording, a density of at least 5.0 (ND100000, around 16 stops or more) is recommended. Standard ND filters used for landscape or architectural photography are significantly too weak for this purpose.
Use on Set
In filmmaking, the solar filter is used for shots of the sun itself – for example, for solar eclipses, sunset details with a visible solar disk, time-lapses of the sun's position, or documentary/astro material. Important points:
- Never look at the sun through an optical viewfinder – not even with a filter attached. Instead, work via the LCD/Live View. Photographic ND filters are not approved for direct visual solar observation.
- For direct solar observation with the eye, the standard ISO 12312-2 applies; this concerns sunglasses/viewers, not necessarily front aperture filters for long lenses.
- During a total solar eclipse, the filter is only removed during totality; it must be reattached before and after.
From the crafts
Perspectives
Producer
Diese professionelle Lösung erhöht die Produktionseffizienz und reduziert Post-Production-Anforderungen. Sie ermöglicht flexible, schnelle Anpassungen während des Drehs.
Gaffer
Als Gaffer ist dies ein unverzichtbares Werkzeug meines täglichen Handwerkszeugs. Es ermöglicht mir professionelle Lichtkontrolle und schnelle Anpassungen auf Set, was Zeit spart und Qualität sichert.
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Related terms
Test your knowledge
Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „Sonnenfilter"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?