NiSi Light Pollution Filter

In the realm of night photography, the battle against light pollution is an ongoing struggle for photographers seeking pristine, natural nightscapes. NiSi Filters has stepped into this arena with their groundbreaking solution – the NiSi Natural Night filter. In this comprehensive review, we'll explore the features, specifications, and real-world performance of this tool designed to combat the adverse effects of light pollution.

Understanding the Light Pollution Challenge

Light pollution poses a significant challenge for night photographers, whether they are within city limits or immersed in the serene beauty of nature. The orange color cast caused by artificial lights can detract from the visual appeal of images. NiSi Filters recognized this issue and introduced the Natural Night filter as a dedicated solution.

NiSi Natural Night Filter Overview

The Natural Night filter from NiSi is a testament to the company's commitment to innovation in the field of night photography. It is their first filter dedicated solely to the challenges posed by nightscapes and light pollution. At the time of writing, the filter is available for NiSi's 100x100mm holder systems, specifically the V5 or V5Pro. Although not yet tested on larger lenses, conversations with NiSi suggest a potential release of a 150mm version in the near future.

Compatibility and Lens Options

For testing purposes, the reviewer utilized the filter with a Nikkor 16-35mm f/4 and a Fujinon 23mm f/1.4. While the Natural Night filter may currently have limitations in terms of lens compatibility, discussions with NiSi indicate a proactive approach to address this concern with the potential release of a 150mm version.

How Does It Work?

The NiSi Natural Night filter is engineered to combat the detrimental impact of mercury vapor, sodium, and Low CRI (Color Rendering Index) streetlight wavelengths. These artificial lights often contribute to the undesirable yellow or orange glow associated with light pollution. The filter's objective is clear: to enhance the visibility of celestial bodies in the night sky while minimizing the impact of urban and artificial lighting.

Filter Construction and Variants

Launched in 2017, the Natural Night filter boasts a distinct design focused on blocking specific wavelengths associated with common sources of light pollution. Available in various sizes, including 180mm, 150mm, and 100mm square varieties, as well as 77mm and 82mm circular versions, NiSi offers versatility to accommodate different filter holders.

Optical Glass Quality and Coating

Crafted from high-quality, lens-grade optical glass, the filter features a double-sided multi-layer coating that is both waterproof and oil-resistant. This coating not only enhances durability by preventing smearing but also minimizes ghosting and flaring.

The Impact on Night Photography

Night photographers face the challenge of capturing captivating images while combatting the adverse effects of light pollution. The Natural Night filter aims to alleviate this challenge by selectively blocking wavelengths associated with common sources of light pollution. The reduction of mercury vapor, sodium, and Low CRI streetlight wavelengths contributes to a more natural and visually pleasing representation of the night sky.

User Experience and Quality Assurance

Drawing from the reviewer's extensive experience with NiSi filters, a consistent theme emerges – a commitment to quality. The reviewer notes the durability and high performance of NiSi filters even after a year of rigorous use. The Natural Night filter aligns with this standard, instilling confidence in its robust construction and resistance to breakage.

Nano Coating Technology

NiSi's Nano Coating technology takes center stage in the Natural Night filter. This multi-layer coating serves multiple purposes, including reducing reflections on the filter's surface, minimizing ghosting and flare, and facilitating easy cleaning. The protective layer ensures that water, dust, and oil can be wiped off without compromising the filter's integrity.

Spectrum Test and Reduction of Light Pollution

A critical aspect of the Natural Night filter is its ability to reduce light pollution effectively. The filter undergoes a spectrum test, revealing a sharp cut of the curve at approximately 580-600nm. This targeted reduction in specific wavelengths contributes to the restoration of the night sky's natural beauty, free from the intrusive hues of artificial lights.

NiSi Light Pollution Filter Series: A Transformative Solution

Expanding beyond the Natural Night filter, NiSi introduces the Light Pollution Filter series, available in various sizes from 40.5mm to 82mm. This series aims to address the challenges posed by urban yellow light pollution caused by mercury, sodium, and low CRI lampposts. Let's delve into the key features that make this series a transformative solution for night photographers.

Key Features of the NiSi Light Pollution Filter Series

Light Pollution Blocker

The Light Pollution Filter effectively blocks the most common wavelengths of light pollution, restoring the natural beauty of the night sky and eliminating unnatural colors caused by artificial lights.

Premium Optical Glass

Crafted from high-quality, lens-grade optical glass, the filter ensures minimal reduction in sharpness, delivering crystal-clear images. The exclusive NiSi nano coating enhances transmittance and reduces flare for impeccable results.

Oleophobic and Hydrophobic Coating

Shoot in any weather condition with confidence. The Light Pollution Filter features an oleophobic and hydrophobic coating, making it easy to clean and providing durability for long-lasting performance.

Versatile Range

Available in various sizes from 40.5mm to 82mm, the Light Pollution Filter adapts to different lenses, catering to the diverse needs of photographers.

Nano Coating Treatment

As part of the NiSi Nano Coating® range, this filter incorporates Nano Coating treatment to reduce reflections, eliminate flare, and facilitate easy cleaning with hydro-repellent and oil-repellent characteristics.

Star Soft GND Compatibility

Pair the Light Pollution Filter with the NiSi Star Soft GND to soften stars and constellations while maintaining high levels of definition across the field of view. Enjoy high-performing glass at a competitive price.

Real-World Application and Impact on Nightscapes

Light Pollution: A Photographer's Nemesis

Night photographers, whether seasoned astrophotographers or enthusiasts capturing urban nightscapes, are no strangers to the challenges posed by light pollution. The intrusion of artificial light sources can lead to an unsightly orange or yellow color cast, obscuring the true beauty of the night sky. NiSi Filters steps into this arena with the Natural Night filter, aiming to address this pervasive issue and enhance the quality of night photography.

Lens Compatibility and Testing Environment

The initial limitation of the Natural Night filter being available only for NiSi's 100x100mm holder systems prompts consideration of lens compatibility. Testing conducted on lenses such as the Nikkor 16-35mm f/4 and Fujinon 23mm f/1.4 provides valuable insights into the real-world application of the filter. Conversations with NiSi indicating a potential release of a 150mm version signify a proactive approach to expanding compatibility options.

Impact on Urban Nightscapes

The appeal of capturing urban nightscapes often diminishes due to the overpowering glow of streetlights and the resultant light pollution. NiSi's Natural Night filter, with its targeted reduction of mercury vapor, sodium, and Low CRI streetlight wavelengths, proves to be a game-changer. The filter effectively restores the natural colors of the night sky, allowing photographers to showcase the urban landscape in its true nocturnal beauty.

Quality Assurance: NiSi's Commitment to Excellence

Durability and Robust Construction

NiSi Filters has built a reputation for producing high-quality, durable filters, and the Natural Night filter upholds this standard. The reviewer's year-long experience with NiSi filters, characterized by toughness and minimal scratches, underscores the brand's commitment to providing reliable and robust equipment. The Natural Night filter stands as a testament to NiSi's dedication to quality assurance.

Nano Coating Technology: Enhancing Performance

NiSi's proprietary Nano Coating technology plays a pivotal role in the Natural Night filter's performance. The multi-layer coating addresses concerns such as reflections, ghosting, and flare. Additionally, the protective layer ensures ease of cleaning, allowing photographers to maintain the filter's optical integrity even in challenging environmental conditions.

Spectrum Test: A Scientific Approach

The spectrum test conducted on the Natural Night filter provides a scientific validation of its effectiveness in reducing light pollution. The sharp cut of the curve at approximately 580-600nm aligns with the filter's objective of selectively blocking specific wavelengths associated with common sources of light pollution. This reduction contributes to a more visually pleasing representation of the night sky.

The Light Pollution Filter Series: Expanding Solutions

Addressing Urban Yellow Light Pollution

NiSi's Light Pollution Filter series expands the range of solutions for night photographers, specifically addressing the challenges posed by urban yellow light pollution. The series, available in various sizes from 40.5mm to 82mm, signifies NiSi's commitment to providing versatile tools catering to the diverse needs of photographers.

Key Features and Versatility

The Light Pollution Filter series shares key features with the Natural Night filter, including effective light pollution blocking, premium optical glass construction, oleophobic and hydrophobic coating, and Nano Coating treatment. The versatility of the series, adaptable to different lenses, underscores its potential as an essential tool for photographers navigating varying shooting conditions.

Star Soft GND Compatibility: Creative Expression

The compatibility of the Light Pollution Filter series with the NiSi Star Soft GND introduces an element of creative expression for photographers. The ability to soften stars and constellations while maintaining high definition across the field of view enhances the artistic possibilities for nightscapes.

Conclusion

In the pursuit of capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of the night sky, NiSi Filters emerges as a valuable ally for photographers facing the challenges of light pollution. The NiSi Natural Night filter, with its targeted reduction of specific wavelengths, proves to be an effective solution for restoring the natural colors of celestial bodies. The introduction of the Light Pollution Filter series further expands NiSi's commitment to providing transformative tools for night photographers.

The exceptional quality of NiSi filters, as evidenced by their optical glass construction, Nano Coating technology, and durability, instills confidence in photographers relying on their equipment in various conditions. As technology evolves and the demands of night photography continue to grow, NiSi Filters stands as a beacon of innovation, offering solutions that elevate the night photography experience.

In conclusion, for photographers seeking to capture the true essence of the night sky with natural colors, reduced light pollution, and unparalleled clarity, NiSi Filters, and specifically the Natural Night filter and Light Pollution Filter series, are worthy additions to the arsenal of tools for capturing the wonders of the cosmos.

NiSi Natural Night - Light Pollution Filter