When I first got into drone photography with my DJI Avata 2, I quickly realized a major hurdle: controlling exposure and glare in bright conditions. Shooting video or taking photos mid-day often resulted in blown-out highlights and reflections, making my footage look amateurish. It was clear I needed a solution to tame the sun’s intensity; without it, I was missing out on capturing stunning, professional-looking aerial shots.
Before investing in any drone filter setup, it’s essential to understand why you need them and what kind of results you’re hoping to achieve. Drone filters, particularly Neutral Density (ND) and Polarizer (PL) filters, are crucial for anyone serious about aerial videography and photography. They help solve problems like overexposure in bright light by reducing the amount of light hitting the sensor (ND function), and they cut down on glare and enhance colours by filtering polarized light (PL function).
The ideal customer for drone filters is someone who flies outdoors frequently, especially in varying light conditions – from bright sunny days to partially cloudy ones, and particularly when shooting over water, reflective surfaces, or lush green landscapes where glare is a major issue. These tools are invaluable for creators who want precise control over their shutter speed for cinematic motion blur in video or longer exposures in photography, and for those who demand vibrant colours and sharp details without distracting reflections.
However, if you only fly indoors or strictly during twilight or heavily overcast conditions where light isn’t an issue, you might not need a comprehensive set of filters. For casual fliers simply capturing footage for fun without specific technical goals, filters might be an unnecessary expense. In those cases, focusing on flight skills and basic editing might be a better starting point.
Key things to consider before buying include compatibility with your specific drone model (like the DJI Avata 2), the types of filters included (ND, PL, ND/PL combinations), the range of stops offered (e.g., ND8, ND16, ND32, ND64), the quality of the optical glass, ease of attachment and removal, and how they might affect the drone’s gimbal balance or initialization. You also want filters that are durable and have protective coatings against water, oil, and scratches.
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Introducing the NEEWER ND/PL Filter Kit
The NEEWER ND/PL Filter Set for DJI Avata 2 is a purpose-built accessory kit designed to combat the challenges of bright outdoor lighting and reflections when flying the Avata 2 drone. This specific set combines the functions of Neutral Density and Polarizer filters into single units, simplifying the filtering process. The kit comes with four filters: ND8/PL, ND16/PL, ND32/PL, and ND64/PL, covering a range of light reduction needs. It also includes a small storage case and a cleaning cloth, which is a thoughtful addition.
This set is explicitly for owners of the DJI Avata 2 or the Avata 2 Fly More Combo. It’s designed to fit the gimbal precisely without interfering with its movement or balance, unlike some bulkier filter systems. While NEEWER offers filters for many drone models, this particular set is tailored to the unique specifications of the Avata 2. It’s not for older Avata models or other drone brands, as the attachment mechanism and size are specific.
Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons based on my experience:
Pros:
* Combines ND and PL functions in one filter.
* Lightweight design doesn’t impact gimbal performance.
* Snap-on attachment is quick and easy.
* Optical glass provides good clarity and colour accuracy.
* Includes a useful range of filter strengths.
* Protective coatings are effective.
Cons:
* Filters can feel a bit delicate; care is needed during handling and cleaning.
* While convenient, combined ND/PL filters offer less granular control than separate filters.
* The plastic frame around the glass seems somewhat fragile, as evidenced by some user feedback about cracks.
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Unpacking the Features and Benefits
Having used the NEEWER ND/PL Filter Set for a while now, I can speak to how each feature translates into practical benefits during actual flight and shooting sessions. The core principle here is the combination of Neutral Density and Polarizer functions in a single filter, which is a significant advantage for drone pilots looking to streamline their gear and workflow.
Combined ND and PL Functionality
This is the headline feature of the NEEWER ND/PL filters. Rather than needing to stack an ND filter and a PL filter (which isn’t feasible or recommended for drone gimbals due to weight and balance issues), these filters do both jobs simultaneously. The ND component reduces the amount of light entering the camera sensor, measured in ‘stops’. This allows you to use slower shutter speeds, crucial for achieving that smooth, cinematic motion blur effect in videos, especially when flying at standard frame rates like 24fps or 30fps in bright sunlight. Without ND filters, your shutter speed would have to be very fast to prevent overexposure, resulting in jerky, unnatural-looking footage.
The PL component is a polarizer, which works by filtering out polarized light. This dramatically reduces glare from surfaces like water, glass, and wet pavement. It also helps to saturate colours, making blues in the sky deeper and greens in foliage more vibrant. Using the ND/PL filters means you not only control light and shutter speed but also improve the overall contrast, colour, and detail in your images and video by cutting reflections. This dual function is incredibly convenient and effective for enhancing outdoor aerial shots. While separate ND and CPL (Circular Polarizer) filters might offer slightly more precise control for advanced users, for drone work where weight and quick changes are paramount, the combined approach is a smart design choice.
A Range of Light Reduction Options
The NEEWER Avata 2 filter set includes four different strengths: ND8/PL, ND16/PL, ND32/PL, and ND64/PL. This provides a good range of light reduction options suitable for various lighting conditions.
* The ND8/PL filter reduces light by 3 stops. This is great for mildly bright days or when you want to achieve a slightly slower shutter speed than possible without a filter.
* The ND16/PL filter cuts light by 4 stops. This is often the go-to filter for moderately bright sunny conditions, allowing for the standard 1/60th or 1/120th shutter speed rule for 30fps or 60fps footage, respectively.
* The ND32/PL filter reduces light by 5 stops. Essential for very bright, sunny days when even the ND16 isn’t enough to get your shutter speed down for motion blur.
* The ND64/PL filter provides the most light reduction, 6 stops. This is for extremely bright conditions, such as flying over snow or white sand on a sunny day, or when you want to experiment with even slower shutter speeds for more exaggerated motion blur or long exposure photography effects from the air.
Having this variety means I can adapt to different times of day and varying cloud cover, ensuring I can maintain consistent exposure and desired shutter speed no matter the lighting. It avoids the frustration of footage that is either too bright or forces an unnaturally fast shutter speed.
Multicoated HD Optical Glass
The quality of the glass in any filter is paramount. NEEWER uses HD optical glass for these filters, which they claim ensures high clarity and accurate colour reproduction. In my experience, the glass does seem to be of good quality. I haven’t noticed any significant colour cast or loss of sharpness when using these filters, which can be a common issue with cheaper alternatives. Maintaining colour accuracy is crucial for post-processing, as it saves time and effort in colour grading.
Furthermore, the multiple coatings on both sides of the glass are genuinely effective. They make the filters resistant to water, fingerprints, smudges, and scratches. This is incredibly important for drone filters, which are exposed to the elements and can easily get dirty during handling or even from environmental factors during flight. Cleaning them is straightforward with the included cloth, and the coatings really do help repel debris and liquids. This durability feature gives me confidence that the filters will last and perform well over time, despite their delicate nature.
Slim, Lightweight, and Gimbal Safe Design
One of the biggest concerns when adding anything to a drone’s camera is its effect on the gimbal. The gimbal is a sensitive piece of equipment responsible for keeping your camera stable and level. Any added weight or bulk can potentially disrupt its balance, leading to errors or even damage. The NEEWER ND/PL filters for the Avata 2 are designed to be slim and lightweight, ensuring they do not interfere with the gimbal’s accuracy or initialization process.
I’ve found that attaching these filters doesn’t trigger any gimbal overload warnings or affect the smooth motion of the camera. They are light enough that the Avata 2’s gimbal can handle them without strain. This also means you can continue to use the original gimbal protector while the filters are installed, offering an extra layer of security when the drone isn’t in flight, although I still remove the filter before putting the protector back on for storage, just to be safe. The fact that they don’t add noticeable weight is a testament to their thoughtful design for this specific drone.
Efficient Snap-On Attachment
Ease of use is key when you’re out flying. You might need to change filters quickly as lighting conditions shift. The NEEWER filters feature a snap-on design that makes swapping them out incredibly fast and tool-free. They simply clip onto the front of the Avata 2’s camera lens. The fit is snug and secure – they don’t feel like they will fall off during flight, even during dynamic maneuvers with the Avata 2.
Removing them is just as easy; you gently pull them off. This quick attachment and removal system means less downtime between shots and less fumbling with small parts in the field. It’s a practical design element that significantly improves the user experience compared to screw-on filters or those with more complex mounting mechanisms.
Included Portable Storage Case
While seemingly minor, the included portable storage case is a valuable accessory. It’s a compact, sturdy case that holds all four filters securely. This protects the delicate glass and frames from dust, scratches, and potential impact when not in use or while transporting your drone gear. The case itself is slim enough to fit easily into most drone bags or cases alongside the Avata 2. It helps keep the filters organized and readily accessible, preventing them from getting lost amongst other accessories. The case’s magnetic closure is a nice touch, keeping it firmly shut.
Feedback from Other Users
Having checked out what other people are saying online about this set, it seems my positive experience is shared by many. I found reviews highlighting how well the filters fit the Avata 2 lens and how they significantly improve image and video quality by controlling exposure and reducing glare. Many users appreciate the convenience of the combined ND/PL function and the ease of the snap-on design, mentioning how quickly they can switch filters out in the field. The protective storage case is also frequently mentioned as a useful bonus. While most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a few users did report concerns about the filters’ durability, specifically mentioning instances where a filter cracked after a minor impact. This echoes my feeling that while the glass is good, the frames feel a bit delicate, requiring careful handling. However, some reviewers who experienced issues noted excellent customer service from NEEWER, with prompt replacements being sent out, which speaks well for the brand’s support.
Concluding Thoughts on the NEEWER Filter Set
Dealing with harsh sunlight and reflections is a common pain point for anyone flying a drone outdoors. Without the right tools, your footage can end up washed out, overly bright, and lacking in detail and vibrant colour. The complications of not addressing this include frustrating editing sessions trying to salvage unusable footage and missing out on capturing the true beauty of your surroundings.
The NEEWER ND/PL Filter Set for DJI Avata 2 offers an excellent solution to these problems. It’s a great fit because it provides the essential light control and glare reduction needed for professional-looking results, thanks to the combined ND/PL functions. The range of filters covers various lighting conditions, giving you creative control over your exposure and motion blur. Finally, the filters are specifically designed for the Avata 2, ensuring they are lightweight, gimbal-safe, and incredibly easy to attach and remove.
If you’re serious about getting the best possible photos and videos from your Avata 2 and are tired of battling bright light, this filter set is a worthwhile investment. To check out the NEEWER ND/PL filters for DJI Avata 2 and see current pricing, click here.
Last update on 2025-07-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API