When I first started dabbling in photography, I quickly realized that controlling light was one of the biggest hurdles. Trying to shoot landscapes in bright sunlight with wide apertures, or capture smooth, flowing water during the day, seemed impossible without blown-out highlights or awkwardly fast shutter speeds. This constant battle with light, and the inability to reduce reflections or enhance colours naturally, was incredibly frustrating and limited the kinds of photos I could take. Solving this wasn’t just about getting a better shot; it was about unlocking creative possibilities and avoiding hours of tedious post-processing that could never truly replicate what a filter does in-camera. If only I had known earlier how much a good lens filter could simplify things.
Before diving into the specifics of a particular filter, it’s crucial to understand why you might need one in the first place. Lens filters like Neutral Density (ND) and Circular Polarizer (CPL) filters are essential tools for photographers and videographers looking to gain more control over their exposures and the appearance of light and reflections in their images. An ND filter reduces the amount of light entering the lens, allowing for longer exposure times in bright conditions – perfect for capturing motion blur in water or clouds, or using wider apertures for shallow depth of field even under harsh sun. A CPL filter, on the other hand, manages reflections from non-metallic surfaces (water, glass, foliage) and can significantly boost colour saturation and contrast, making skies bluer and greenery richer.
The ideal customer for this type of filter is someone who frequently shoots outdoors – be it landscapes, cityscapes, or even portraits in bright light – and wants versatility without the hassle of carrying multiple filters. If you’re primarily a studio photographer or mostly shoot in low-light environments, an ND or CPL filter might not be a necessary purchase. Those needing extremely precise light reduction for very long exposures (beyond 5 stops) might also find a variable ND limiting and might be better served by a set of fixed ND filters. However, for the vast majority of outdoor shooting scenarios, especially where conditions change frequently, a combination ND CPL filter offers immense convenience. Key things to consider before buying include the filter size (must match your lens thread), the quality of the glass and coatings (to avoid image degradation), the ND range (for variable filters), and whether it’s a dedicated filter or a combination unit.
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An Introduction to the Product
The K&F Concept 72mm True Color Variable ND CPL Filter is a 2-in-1 lens filter designed to offer both variable neutral density and circular polarizing capabilities in a single unit. It promises to control the amount of light entering your lens while simultaneously managing reflections and enhancing colors, all without the common issues like colour cast or the dreaded “X” cross pattern often associated with variable ND filters. When you purchase it, you typically receive the filter itself, often housed in a protective case. Compared to carrying separate ND filters of various strengths and a separate CPL, this K&F Concept filter aims to simplify your workflow and gear bag. It’s particularly suited for photographers and videographers who need flexibility in changing lighting conditions and want to maximize image quality straight out of the camera. It might not be the best fit for absolute purists who demand the utmost optical perfection under extreme conditions, but for most users, it offers an excellent balance of performance and convenience.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:
Pros:
* Combines Variable ND and CPL functions in one filter.
* Features “True Color” technology to minimize colour shift.
* Designed to avoid the “X” cross pattern within its ND range (ND2-32).
* Uses high-quality AGC optical glass with multi-layer coatings.
* Smooth rotation with tactile grips and end stops.
Cons:
* Cannot attach a standard lens hood when the filter is in use.
* Requires a larger lens cap if left on the lens.
* Rotating the CPL adjustment can sometimes unintentionally shift the ND setting.
* May still exhibit minor vignetting or the “X” pattern on very wide-angle lenses or at the extreme end of the ND range on some optics.
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Performance Highlights and Advantages
Having spent a significant amount of time using the K&F Concept 72mm True Color Variable ND CPL Filter, I can confidently speak to its performance across its various functions. This lens filter has become a staple in my kit, largely due to its clever combination of two essential tools and its solid optical performance for its price point.
Variable ND Functionality (ND2-ND32)
The core appeal of any variable ND filter is its ability to easily adjust the amount of light reduction. With a range from ND2 to ND32 (which corresponds to 1 to 5 stops of light reduction), this filter offers enough variability for a wide range of outdoor shooting scenarios. I’ve found the 1-5 stop range to be incredibly practical for midday shooting when I want to open up my aperture for subject isolation or slightly slow down my shutter speed to add a touch of motion blur to water or clouds without resorting to extremely dark fixed NDs or vastly underexposing my shot.
The adjustment ring is smooth, with small, tactile grips (the orange tabs) that make it easy to rotate precisely, even while looking through the viewfinder or at the live view screen. The self-locking technology at the ND2 and ND32 limits is a smart addition, preventing you from rotating past the effective range and potentially causing the dreaded “X” cross pattern that plagues many lower-quality variable NDs. While some reviews mention potential issues on very wide lenses or right at the ND32 limit, I’ve found that within the intended range on lenses down to about 24mm (on full-frame), the filter performs admirably, keeping the light reduction even across the frame. This flexibility is a huge time saver compared to screwing on and off multiple fixed ND filters as the light changes.
Integrated CPL Performance
Equally important is the circular polarizer function, which is integrated into the same physical ring as the ND adjustment. By rotating the outer part of the filter, you can adjust the polarization effect. This is where the magic happens for enhancing landscapes. The ability to reduce reflections on water surfaces allows you to see into streams or lakes, and it’s fantastic for cutting glare off wet rocks or foliage, significantly boosting colour saturation and contrast. I particularly notice the effect on blue skies, making them appear deeper and more dramatic, and on green leaves, making them pop with vibrancy.
While some users noted that the CPL adjustment range feels a bit smaller compared to dedicated CPLs, I’ve found it effective once you get the knack for finding the optimal rotation point. It does take a little practice to rotate just the CPL ring without slightly nudging the ND setting, especially if you’re trying to make fine adjustments, but the convenience of having both functions immediately accessible outweighs this minor finessing requirement for me. The benefits it brings to outdoor photography in terms of glare reduction and colour enhancement are undeniable and make a significant difference in the final image quality.
The Convenience of a 2-in-1 Design
The most compelling aspect of the K&F Concept 72mm True Color Variable ND CPL Filter is its 2-in-1 nature. This design philosophy is incredibly practical, especially for photographers who like to travel light or shoot in situations where conditions can change rapidly. Instead of fumbling with multiple filters – a separate CPL, a set of NDs – you have one unit that provides versatile light control and polarization. This not only reduces the amount of gear you need to carry but also speeds up your workflow in the field. Being able to quickly dial in the desired light reduction and polarization effect by simply rotating the filter saves precious time and ensures you don’t miss fleeting moments or perfect lighting conditions while swapping filters.
For outdoor shooters, particularly landscapers and videographers, this combined functionality is a game-changer. You can use the ND to get smooth water effects and then fine-tune the polarization to remove unwanted reflections or make the sky pop, all without changing filters. The convenience factor alone makes this K&F Concept filter a valuable addition to any kit.
Maintaining True Color and Avoiding the “X” Cross
A significant improvement highlighted by K&F Concept is their “True Color” titanium coating technology, aimed at combating the notorious colour cast that often affects variable ND filters, typically leaning towards yellow or green. In my experience, this filter performs very well in this regard. While no variable ND is perfectly neutral across its entire range and across all lenses, the colour shift with this K&F Concept 72mm True Color Variable ND CPL Filter is minimal and easily correctable in post-processing, if necessary. It’s far superior to many other variable NDs I’ve used that impart a strong, distracting tint.
The self-locking frame technology is designed to prevent the “X” cross vignetting phenomenon. This occurs when the polarizing layers within a variable ND are rotated beyond their effective range, causing dark patterns to appear on the image, especially at wider angles. By having definite stops at ND2 and ND32, the filter guides you to stay within the range where this issue should be avoided. As mentioned before, on some very wide lenses (like 14mm or 20mm on full-frame) or right at the ND32 limit, you might still see some slight darkening in corners or the edge of the cross pattern, but it’s significantly better controlled than on filters without this feature or range limitation. For lenses in the 24mm and up range, the performance is excellent within the ND2-32 stops.
Construction and Optical Quality
The physical construction of the K&F Concept 72mm filter feels solid and well-made. It utilizes imported AGC optical glass, which is a good quality foundation for a lens filter at this price point. The 28 multi-layer coatings are crucial for minimizing reflections, maximizing light transmission, and providing protection. These coatings contribute to the filter’s waterproof and scratch-resistant properties, making it more durable and easier to clean in the field. I’ve found that water beads up nicely on the surface, and dust wipes away without too much effort. This build quality instills confidence that the filter can withstand regular outdoor use.
The threading is smooth and screws onto my 72mm lenses without issue. The included protective case is also well-designed, offering good padding and a pull-tab to easily retrieve the filter. However, one minor drawback, as noted by myself and other users, is that the presence of the external rotation tabs and the filter’s slightly thicker profile mean that you cannot attach a standard lens hood to the front of your lens when this filter is mounted. This can be a nuisance when shooting into or near the sun, as flare control relies solely on the lens’s internal baffling and the filter’s coatings. You also need a lens cap slightly larger than 72mm if you plan to leave the filter on your lens, as the standard 72mm cap won’t fit over the adjustment ring. These are compromises for the convenient 2-in-1 variable design, but worth noting.
What Users Are Saying
Looking around online, many photographers share my positive experience with the K&F Concept 72mm True Color Variable ND CPL Filter. Users frequently praise its dual functionality, noting how practical it is for various shooting situations, from weddings with changing light to landscape photography. Many appreciate the solid build quality and the premium feel of the packaging and the filter itself, often comparing it favourably to filters from more expensive brands. The effectiveness of both the ND effect for slowing down shutter speeds and the CPL for managing reflections and boosting colours is a common theme. Reviewers often mention its smooth adjustment, the lack of significant colour cast, and the absence of the black cross issue within its stated range as major positives, making it a highly recommended filter for enthusiasts and professionals alike seeking versatility and good performance without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Battling challenging light conditions and unwanted reflections can severely limit your creative potential as a photographer. Without the right tools, you’re constantly compromising on exposure settings or facing hours of post-processing work that might not fully recover lost detail or natural colour. The K&F Concept 72mm True Color Variable ND CPL Filter offers an elegant solution to these problems. Its 2-in-1 design provides the flexibility of a variable ND filter (ND2-32) and the glare-reducing, colour-enhancing power of a CPL in a single, convenient unit. Built with quality AGC optical glass and advanced multi-layer coatings, it delivers sharp, clear images with minimal colour shift and effectively manages the ‘X’ cross issue within its useful range. For anyone looking to simplify their filter setup and gain better control over light and reflections in their outdoor photography or videography, this filter is an excellent choice. Don’t let harsh light dictate your shots; take control and unlock new creative possibilities. Click here to check the product out and see how it can transform your photography.
Last update on 2025-07-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API