Transform an average sunrise
or sunset into something spectacular or convert a dull, washed-out sky to
a breathtaking blue. No other filter has done as much to improve
landscape photography as the graduated filter.
Half color, half clear with a
graduated density transition for smooth blending into the scene, Tiffen
Color-Grad filters are one of the most widely used category of filters in the
industry today. They enable the image-maker to create an illusion or
enhance reality. Some of the most popular applications include:
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Adding color
excitement to a drab sky
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Changing the
specific color in a scene to create a desired special effect
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Enhancing the
existing color or creating subtle color drama
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Creating more
balanced exposure in uneven lighting situations
When it comes to
rectangular-shaped filters, such as the 4x5.650 (Panavision size), the
terms vertical and horizontal are important. The horizontal
or vertical designation refers to the position of the filter
in relationship to the camera when the grad line is horizontal.
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Horizontal
Color-Grad
To order this filter, you would ask
for a Horizontal Color-Grad. |
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Vertical
Color-Grad
To order this filter, you would ask
for a Vertical Color-Grad.
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Tiffen
Color-Grads are supplied in a wide range of sizes and colors and are made
in either soft, hard, or as a special order, attenuated
gradients.
In addition to
subject matter and it s surroundings, the type of lens you use will help
to determine whether to use a Tiffen Color-Grad with a "hard"
edge or "soft" edge.
Telephoto lenses
make use of a small potion of the filter Therefore, we recommend a hard
edge for long lenses because a soft edge would get lost in the
image.
Wide angle lenses
make objects smaller. Therefore, we recommend a soft edge
for short focal lengths because a hard edge gradient would look like a hard
straight line. Soft edges and attenuators are for subtle blending
with irregular-shaped subjects or unusual lighting.
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Hard
Edge
This illustration shows a vertical
Color-Grad with a hard edge. Depending on the
size of the filter, the transition area is approximately 1/4"
to 1/2" wide before reaching full density. |
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Soft
Edge
This illustration shows a vertical
Color-Grad with a soft edge. Depending on the
size of the filter, the transition area is between 1/2" to
2" wide before reaching full density.
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Attenuator
This illustration shows an
attenuated vertical Color-Grad. The transition area takes
place throughout the whole filter, starting clear and reaching its
maximum density at the opposite end. |
Sometimes, an
unusual requirement demands a special-order Color-Grad. Tiffen can
provide custom specifications in color, gradient and configuration.
Describe a color, or send us a sample - we can match it. Custom
densities and gradients are routinely produced for unique situations at an
additional cost.
