There was a time when shooting outdoors with my favourite action camera, especially on bright, sunny days, felt like a constant battle against blown-out skies and washed-out colours. Capturing smooth, cinematic footage required careful planning or post-production work that often fell short. The problem wasn’t just aesthetic; losing detail in highlights meant losing crucial visual information, making dynamic outdoor shots incredibly challenging to get right straight out of the camera. Solving this was essential for creating the kind of engaging content I envisioned.
Before diving into a specific camera filter set, it’s crucial to understand why you might need one in the first place and what factors should influence your decision. Camera filters, particularly Neutral Density (ND) and Circular Polarizing (CPL) filters, are essential tools for photographers and videographers working in varying light conditions. They primarily help control the amount of light entering the lens and manage reflections, allowing for more creative control over exposure and image quality, especially outdoors. An ideal customer for such a product is someone who frequently shoots video or photos with their action camera in bright environments, who wants to achieve specific effects like motion blur in video or longer exposures in photography, and who needs to minimize glare or enhance colours. If you primarily shoot indoors or in low light, or if you’re not concerned with manual exposure control or reflection management, you might not need a comprehensive filter set. Instead, you might only require basic lens protection.
When considering purchasing filters for a device like the DJI OSMO Pocket 3, you need to think about compatibility, ease of use, optical quality, and the specific types of filters included. Is the attachment method secure and quick? How does the filter quality affect your image? Does the set include the specific ND strengths and other filter types you need for your shooting scenarios? Will they interfere with the gimbal’s operation? These are all important questions to ask yourself before committing to a purchase.
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Introducing the NEEWER Magnetic Filter Kit
The NEEWER Magnetic ND CPL UV Filter Set Compatible with DJI OSMO Pocket 3 is a collection of six magnetic filters designed specifically for the DJI OSMO Pocket 3. It promises to enhance your mobile cinematography and photography by providing essential tools to manage light, reflections, and lens protection. The set includes ND16, ND32, ND64, and ND256 Neutral Density filters, a CPL (Circular Polarizing) filter, and a UV (Ultraviolet) filter. The main draw is the magnetic attachment system, advertised as being fast and secure. When you purchase the set, you receive the six filters, a storage case, and a cleaning cloth.
Compared to the official DJI branded filters, the NEEWER set offers a wider range of ND stops (including ND256) and includes a UV filter, often at a more accessible price point. Previous iterations for other cameras might have used screw-on mechanisms, making this magnetic system a significant ease-of-use upgrade tailored for the quick workflow of action cameras like the Pocket 3. This specific set is clearly for owners of the DJI OSMO Pocket 3 who shoot outdoors and want more control over their image quality and exposure without the hassle of screw-on filters. It’s likely not for someone who rarely shoots in bright conditions or who requires compatibility with other lens attachments like the DJI wide-angle lens while a filter is attached (a known limitation).
Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons I’ve experienced:
Pros:
* Convenient and fast magnetic attachment system.
* Comprehensive range of ND filters for various lighting conditions.
* Includes CPL and UV filters for added versatility and protection.
* High-quality multi-coated optical glass.
* Slim profile allows the gimbal to close without removing filters (mostly).
* Good value compared to official alternatives.
* Comes with a protective case.
Cons:
* Inconsistent quality control reported by some users (dust/debris).
* Magnets can be *very* strong, making removal tricky initially.
* Not compatible with the official DJI Black Mist filter when stacked.
* Potential for gimbal errors on startup if filters are left attached.
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Dissecting the Capabilities: Features & Benefits
Having spent considerable time using the NEEWER Magnetic Filter Set with my DJI OSMO Pocket 3, I can speak to how the individual components perform and the benefits they bring to the shooting experience. This set is truly a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their footage captured with the Pocket 3.
Magnetic Fast & Secure Attachment:
This is, arguably, the standout feature. The entire set utilizes a magnetic attachment system. You simply bring the filter close to the lens of the Pocket 3, and *snap* – it’s securely in place. This is incredibly important for the rapid-fire nature of vlogging and capturing action. Screw-on filters are fiddly and time-consuming, potentially causing you to miss a shot. The magnetic design ensures you can swap filters in literal seconds. The magnets feel quite strong, providing a confident hold even during dynamic movements or when the gimbal is active. However, this strength is a double-edged sword; while it ensures security, it can also make removing the filter a bit challenging due to the filter’s small size and the delicate nature of the gimbal. You have to be careful not to twist or put undue pressure on the Pocket 3’s lens assembly when pulling a filter off. A gentle pull straight off the front seems to work best. This quick attachment significantly improves workflow efficiency, letting you adapt to changing light conditions on the fly.
Balanced Exposure with ND Filters (ND16, ND32, ND64, ND256):
The core of this set is the selection of Neutral Density (ND) filters. These filters reduce the amount of light hitting the sensor without affecting the colour. The numbers (ND16, ND32, etc.) indicate the light reduction factor. ND16 reduces light by 4 stops, ND32 by 5 stops, ND64 by 6 stops, and ND256 by a significant 8 stops. In practical terms, this means you can shoot with slower shutter speeds or wider apertures even in very bright sunlight.
For video, especially at standard frame rates like 24fps or 30fps, the “180-degree rule” suggests your shutter speed should be roughly double your frame rate (e.g., 1/50th sec for 24fps video). This creates natural-looking motion blur. Without an ND filter in bright light, the Pocket 3’s camera will automatically increase the shutter speed to prevent overexposure, resulting in choppy-looking video with little to no motion blur. Using an ND filter allows you to force the camera to use a slower, more appropriate shutter speed, achieving that desirable cinematic look.
The range provided covers most scenarios. ND16 is great for slightly overcast bright days or late afternoon sun. ND32 and ND64 are your workhorses for typical sunny conditions. ND256 is for extremely bright environments, like snow or beach scenes in direct midday sun, or for achieving very long exposures in photography (though the Pocket 3’s capabilities for truly long exposures are limited). I found the ND16 and ND64 to be the most frequently used in my outdoor shooting, as also noted by some users. The ability to control exposure with these ND filters for the Pocket 3 provides a level of creative control previously difficult to achieve.
Vivid Color Reproduction with CPL Filter:
The Circular Polarizing (CPL) filter is another essential tool. It works by filtering out polarized light, which manifests as glare or reflections from non-metallic surfaces like water, glass, leaves, and even the sky. By rotating the CPL filter, you can adjust the degree of polarization effect. The most common uses are reducing reflections off water or windows, deepening the blue of the sky, and enhancing the saturation of colours, particularly greens in foliage.
Using the CPL filter on my Pocket 3 has made a noticeable difference in scenes with water or strong reflections. It allows you to see through the surface of water instead of just seeing the reflection of the sky, or to capture shots through windows without distracting glare. It also helps to saturate colours naturally, making landscapes pop without needing extensive post-processing. It’s a simple filter but incredibly effective for adding that extra punch and clarity to your footage and photos.
Lens Protection with UV Filter:
The UV (Ultraviolet) filter is included primarily for lens protection. It blocks UV light, which isn’t typically a major issue for modern digital sensors in terms of image quality (unlike film), but it serves as a sacrificial layer on the front of your valuable Pocket 3 lens. Scratches, dust, fingerprints, or even minor impacts will hit the UV filter first, potentially saving the built-in lens from damage. While some users feel this is unnecessary given the Pocket 3’s design, I see it as cheap insurance. It’s always on my lens when I’m not using one of the other filters, providing peace of mind, especially when shooting in dusty or challenging environments. It’s thin and light and has no discernible negative impact on image quality.
Multi-Coated HD Optical Glass:
The quality of the glass and its coatings is paramount for any filter. NEEWER states these magnetic filters are made from HD optical glass with 30 layers of multi-functional coatings on both sides. These coatings are designed to be water repellent, scratch resistant, and oil proof. In my experience, the coatings perform well. Fingerprints wipe off easily, and water beads up and rolls away. The optical quality seems excellent; I haven’t noticed any significant colour cast, loss of sharpness, or unwanted aberrations introduced by the filters, which can be common with lower-quality glass. This ensures that while you’re controlling light or reflections, you’re not degrading the overall image fidelity. The clarity is maintained, resulting in crisp footage and photos.
Lightweight Aluminum Frame:
Each filter is housed in a precision CNC machined lightweight aluminum frame, weighing only about 1.62g. This minimal weight is critical for the Pocket 3, as it ensures the filters do not interfere with the gimbal’s calibration or operation. A heavier filter could throw off the balance, causing strain on the motors or leading to calibration issues. The slim profile of the frames also means that the gimbal can retract into its protective state even with a filter attached. While this is a major convenience, it’s worth noting the point raised in user feedback and my own experience: occasionally, leaving a filter on can cause a “gimbal protection” error on startup if the filter slightly jams the initial movement. It doesn’t happen every time, but it’s frequent enough that it’s often safer to remove the filter before powering the Pocket 3 off, despite the design allowing it to stay on. This is a minor drawback to an otherwise excellent design feature.
Stackability:
The magnetic design allows for stacking filters. The most common use case is stacking an ND filter with the CPL filter to simultaneously control exposure and manage reflections/enhance colours. While possible, stacking adds slightly more bulk and weight, and care should be taken to ensure the gimbal isn’t stressed. I found stacking an ND with the CPL works well, giving you ultimate control over a scene.
Overall, the features of this NEEWER filter set directly address the limitations of shooting with the DJI OSMO Pocket 3 in bright conditions. They provide the necessary tools to capture professional-looking footage and photos with correct exposure, natural motion blur, and vibrant colours, all while offering the convenience of a magnetic system. While there might be minor quality control hiccups for some users and a slight risk of gimbal interference if left on, the core functionality and benefits are substantial.
Customer Experiences Shared Online
After searching various forums and product pages, it’s clear that many users are quite happy with this action camera filter set. Positive comments frequently mention the great value for the price, especially when compared to official DJI alternatives. People appreciate the secure magnetic attachment, noting how easy they are to snap onto the Pocket 3 lens. Many users find the included ND filters, particularly the ND16 and ND64, to be highly effective for managing bright sunlight and achieving cinematic motion blur in their videos. The slim design that generally allows the gimbal to close with the filter attached is also a commonly praised feature. The protective case is seen as a handy bonus for keeping the filters safe and organized.
However, the feedback isn’t without criticism. Some users have reported issues with quality control right out of the box, mentioning finding dust or debris between the filter glass and frame, which required exchanges. A notable point raised by at least one user is the lack of compatibility when trying to stack these NEEWER ND filters with the official DJI Black Mist filter – apparently, the magnets repel or misalign. The strong magnetic hold, while ensuring security, was also mentioned as making the small filters tricky to remove. Finally, despite the filters allowing the gimbal to close, a few users experienced “gimbal protection” errors upon startup when a filter was left on, suggesting potential occasional interference with the gimbal’s initialization. Despite these points, the overall sentiment appears positive, focusing on the significant functional improvement these filters bring to shooting with the Pocket 3.
Wrapping Up the Discussion
Dealing with harsh sunlight and achieving proper exposure and cinematic motion blur is a common frustration for action camera users. Without effective light control, footage can look amateurish, losing valuable detail in highlights and lacking smooth motion. The NEEWER Magnetic ND CPL UV Filter Set Compatible with DJI OSMO Pocket 3 offers a compelling solution to this problem.
This set is a great fit for addressing those outdoor shooting challenges for a few key reasons. First, the comprehensive range of ND filters gives you the ability to control your exposure and shutter speed across various bright conditions, ensuring you can capture smooth video with motion blur. Second, the included CPL filter helps eliminate distracting glare and boost colour saturation, adding polish to your visuals. Lastly, the magnetic attachment system makes the process of adding or swapping filters incredibly fast and convenient, minimizing missed shots. Considering its features and performance based on extensive use and user feedback, this filter set stands out as a valuable accessory for any DJI OSMO Pocket 3 owner looking to maximize the camera’s potential outdoors. To check out the product and see current pricing, click here.
Last update on 2025-07-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API