Why Every Photography Needs a Pro Black Mist Filter
Shot on the Sony A7RIII ~ Sigma 35mm f/1.2 Art (Black Mist Filter 1/4)
A Black Pro-Mist filter is something that has been in use for quite some time in cinematography. However, many photographers probably haven’t heard of it, let alone used it. What is a Black Pro-Mist filter? What effect does it have in your photos? Should you use a Black Pro-Mist filter for your photography work? In today’s discussion we’re going to dive in on why the Pro Black Mist Filter should be in every photographers camera bag.
What is a Black Mist Filter?
A Black Pro-Mist filter is a special-effects filter that reduces highlights and slightly lowers the scene’s overall contrast. In short, it creates a diffusion effect and adds a softer feel to the image. Usually defined by a fraction (1/8, 1/4) or a percentage (20%, 40%). But how do these filters diffuse light and what kind of effect do they provide at different strengths? I’m here to break it down and show you with a collection of sample images. You can see an example chart below from the K&F Concept website.
Black Pro-Mist filters work really well when you’re working in high contrast scenarios. The filter adds a misty effect, which makes the scene appear kind of dreamy. Also, when you’re facing a harsh light source, a Black Pro-Mist filter can help diffuse it and add unique characteristics to your image. In normal daylight conditions, however, the effect is quite subtle.
Shot on Sony A7RIII ~ Sigma 35mm f/1.2 Art (Black Mist Filter 1/4)
Whatever a particular company calls their light diffusion filters, they’re all designed in a similar way: at some point in the filter manufacturing process (which usually consists of laying various coatings atop a piece of optical glass), small black speckles are sprinkled on top of the piece of glass. How many of these ‘specks’ are sprinkled on top determines how strong the diffusion effect will be: more specks means more prominent diffusion, fewer specks means less diffusion.
Effects of a Black Mist Filter
Black mist filters are becoming the most common type of mist filter, and they can be particularly effective when used correctly. As the name suggests, these filters create a darker, more ominous effect when light passes through them, creating a moody and atmospheric look to your images. Black mist filters are created with the addition of small black flecks, so it will still create a halation around points of light and soften skin, however, controls the light differently and leaves shadows unaffected.
This diffusion effect also pays dividends in portraiture, as it can subtly soften subjects’ skin, smoothing out wrinkles and blemishes that you may otherwise have to smooth out in post-production. As you can see in the image above, pores get smoothed out and small imperfections become less noticeable and should be easier to remove in post-production with the softer, more even skin tone to sample from when using cloning tools or Magic Wand-like tools.
It’s not a look everyone is going to appreciate or want in their images, but its popularity speaks for itself with how many different companies are making their own versions for photographers and videographers alike.
Conclusion
Mist filters can be a powerful tool for photographers, creating a unique and atmospheric effect that can enhance the mood and atmosphere of your images. White mist filters are a popular choice for creating a soft, dreamy effect, while black mist filters are often used for more darker effect when light passes through them, creating a moody and atmospheric look to your images. When choosing a mist filter, it’s important to consider your specific needs and the context in which you will be using the filter. With the right filter and a bit of experimentation, you can create truly stunning images that capture the timeless beauty and mystery of mist.
