Harkening back to when I first got into shooting videos with my action camera, dealing with incredibly bright outdoor light was a constant headache. Blown-out skies, washed-out colours, and jerky motion blur were just facts of life. It was clear that without some way to control the light hitting the sensor, achieving that smooth, cinematic look for my action footage would be nearly impossible, leaving me with disappointing results after exciting adventures.
If you’re using an action camera outdoors, especially for activities like skiing, surfing, biking, or hiking, you’ve likely encountered the challenges of bright sunlight. Action cameras have small sensors and fixed apertures, meaning they struggle to manage exposure when the sun is blazing. This is where neutral density (ND) and circular polarizer (CPL) filters come in. An action camera filter set helps control the amount of light entering the lens and manages reflections, allowing you to shoot at desired shutter speeds for smooth motion blur and capture more vibrant colours. The ideal customer for filters like these is someone actively using their camera in varied outdoor lighting and seeking to elevate their footage beyond basic point-and-shoot results. If you only use your action camera indoors or in consistently low-light conditions, or if you’re perfectly happy with the standard exposure and motion characteristics, you might not need a filter set. For purely low-light shooting, filters that *block* light aren’t necessary; you might need lights or faster lenses instead (though action cameras don’t typically allow lens swaps). But for anyone serious about getting the best image quality in daylight, especially for action sequences, these are a game-changer. When considering a purchase, think about the types of lighting conditions you frequently shoot in, the kind of motion blur you want to achieve, and the importance of reducing glare and enhancing colours in your scenes. Compatibility with your specific camera model is also paramount.
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- 【Precise Exposure Control】 ND8, ND16, and ND32 filters reduce light by 3, 4, and 5 stops respectively. They offer precise exposure control in different light conditions, prevent overexposure in...
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An Overview of the NEEWER Snap On ND Filter Set
Enter the NEEWER Snap On ND Filter Set Compatible with DJI Osmo Action 3/4/5 Pro. This set promises to give users better control over their action camera’s exposure and image quality in bright conditions. It comes with a selection of filters designed specifically for the DJI Osmo Action 3, Action 4, and Action 5 Pro models, featuring a convenient snap-on attachment system. The package includes four filters: ND8, ND16, ND32, and a CPL, along with a small storage case and a cleaning cloth. This particular NEEWER filter kit is tailored for the Osmo Action series, unlike traditional camera filters that might screw into threads (which the Osmo Action doesn’t have on its protective lens cover) or magnetic systems found on some other cameras or filter brands. It’s designed for action camera enthusiasts who want a straightforward way to improve their image quality in bright light without complicated setups. It might not be for someone looking for more advanced variable ND filters or someone who prefers a different mounting system, but for quick changes and reliable performance on the supported Osmo Action cameras, it fits the bill nicely.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:
Pros:
* Specific compatibility with DJI Osmo Action 3/4/5 Pro
* Easy and secure snap-on attachment
* Includes essential ND (8, 16, 32) and CPL filters
* Made with multicoated HD optical glass
* Comes with a storage case and cleaning cloth
Cons:
* Snap-on might feel less secure than a screw-in or magnetic system for some users (though designed to be tight)
* Need to carry the small case to swap filters
* Not compatible with older Osmo Action models or other camera brands
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Detailed Features and Their Benefits
Having used this NEEWER action camera filter set for a while now, I can attest to how each component contributes to better footage. The beauty of this set lies in its simplicity and effectiveness, directly addressing the limitations of shooting with an action camera in varying light.
Precise Exposure Control with ND Filters (ND8, ND16, ND32)
The core problem this filter kit solves is overexposure in bright conditions. Action cameras typically have a wide-open aperture (usually around f/2.8). In bright sunlight, even at the lowest native ISO, the camera’s shutter speed has to be very fast to prevent the image from being completely white. This fast shutter speed freezes all motion, resulting in that jarring, unnatural look in action footage. The rule of thumb for smooth video is often a shutter speed around double your frame rate (e.g., 1/60 sec for 30fps video). ND filters reduce the amount of light entering the camera, allowing you to use a slower shutter speed while maintaining correct exposure.
The set provides three different levels of neutral density:
* ND8: This filter reduces light by 3 stops. I find this useful for moderately bright, cloudy days or when the sun is lower in the sky. It takes the edge off the brightness just enough to start getting those desirable shutter speeds for 30fps or 60fps video in slightly less intense light than full sun.
* ND16: Reducing light by 4 stops, the ND16 is my go-to for sunny days that aren’t completely harsh. It allows for appropriately slow shutter speeds to introduce noticeable motion blur in water, wheels, or scenery passing by, making the footage feel more dynamic and professional.
* ND32: This filter cuts light by a substantial 5 stops. This is essential for bright, sunny days, especially on snow or sand where reflections add extra intensity. It enables very slow shutter speeds, perfect for capturing significant motion blur for high-speed activities or creating long-exposure time-lapses without overexposing. I’ve used the NEEWER ND32 filter specifically for time-lapses on bright days, and the results have been fantastic, turning choppy sequences into smooth, flowing visuals.
The benefit here is significant: being able to achieve a cinematic look with motion blur that wasn’t possible before. It gives your footage a sense of speed and dynamism that a frozen, fast-shutter image just can’t replicate. Beyond video, ND filters also allow for longer exposures in photography, useful for blurring water or clouds.
Enhanced Contrast and Saturation with the CPL Filter
The circular polarizer (CPL filter) is a different beast. While ND filters reduce overall light uniformly, a CPL filter selectively blocks polarized light. In practical terms, this means it reduces reflections from non-metallic surfaces like water, glass, wet rocks, and foliage. Have you ever tried filming a lake or ocean and just seen reflections on the surface? A CPL helps see *through* the water instead.
Beyond reflection reduction, a CPL filter also significantly boosts colour saturation and contrast, particularly in the sky and greenery. Blue skies become deeper, clouds pop more, and landscapes look more vibrant. For action sports involving water, snow, or lush environments, this filter can dramatically improve the visual impact of your footage without needing much post-processing. It’s also rotatable within its snap-on frame, allowing you to adjust the polarization effect for maximum impact depending on the angle of the sun and the reflective surface. This is particularly useful when filming from different angles or as the light changes.
Multicoated HD Optical Glass Construction
The quality of the glass is crucial for filters, as a poor filter can degrade the image quality your camera is capable of. NEEWER uses HD optical glass for these filters, which is important for maintaining sharpness and clarity. Shooting with action cameras, especially in demanding environments, means your gear gets exposed to the elements. The multiple nanometer coatings on both sides of these filters are designed to be water repellent, scratch resistant, and anti-fingerprint. In my experience, this holds up well. Water beads off nicely, making them easy to clean, and they seem durable enough to withstand minor bumps and handling during outdoor shoots. The coatings also help minimize internal reflections and flare, which is essential when shooting towards bright light sources.
Convenient Snap On Attachment
One of the standout features of this filter set is the snap-on attachment system. Unlike traditional screw-in filters or adhesive mounts, these filters are designed to securely fit over the Osmo Action’s original lens protector. It’s incredibly simple – just align and push until you feel it click or firmly seat into place. To remove, just pull it off. This is fantastic for quick swaps in the field. If the light changes rapidly (like clouds moving in or out), you can switch filters in seconds, minimizing downtime and missed shots. The nonslip interiors mentioned in the product description contribute to a surprisingly firm grip. Despite initial reservations about a snap-on system on an action camera used for dynamic activities, these filters have stayed firmly in place even during bumpy rides and fast movements. This convenience factor cannot be overstated when you’re in the middle of an activity and need to adapt quickly. While a screw-in system might feel more permanently attached, the snap-on design is far more practical for the rapid demands of action camera shooting.
Experiences Shared by Other Users
I’ve checked out what other folks are saying online about this NEEWER Snap On ND Filter Set, and the feedback is generally quite positive, mirroring much of my own experience. Many users appreciate how effectively these filters handle bright conditions, particularly mentioning improvements when filming in snow or intense sun where footage would otherwise be completely overexposed. The secure snap-on fit is frequently highlighted as a major plus, with people noting that the filters stay firmly attached even during high-speed activities like motorcycling, which addresses potential concerns about this type of mounting system. The quality of the glass and the resulting image are also points of satisfaction, with users finding that the filters don’t negatively impact sharpness and help achieve better colour and contrast, especially with the CPL. The value for the price is another recurring theme among positive reviews, positioning this set as an accessible way to significantly improve action camera footage quality.
Putting it All Together
The fundamental problem with action cameras in bright sunlight – overexposure, lack of motion blur, and muted colours – is a real barrier to capturing great-looking footage. This NEEWER filter set compatible with DJI Osmo Action 3/4/5 Pro offers a straightforward and effective solution. With a range of ND filters for precise exposure control and a CPL to boost colours and cut glare, you gain the tools needed to shoot in diverse lighting conditions and achieve that desired cinematic motion blur. The convenient snap-on design makes them practical for use in the field, and the optical glass quality ensures your image remains sharp. If you’re tired of blown-out footage and want to give your action shots a professional edge, this set is definitely worth considering. To learn more or to purchase the set, Click here.
Last update on 2025-07-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API