Hey Darren Today I noticed that my M3P wouldn't set focus whether I tapped on the screen or half pressed the camera button. For objects closer to the camera they would momentarily come into very sharp focus and then blur out . Of course, i could manually adjust the focus and set it to what i wanted. I suspected that the camera wasn't functioning well. Then i thought of removing the ND filter (which at that time was only an ND4) and lo and behold, there was nothing wrong with the focus. Tried it again and indeed the ND filter was messing it up. Have you had a similar problem? BTW, I am using Freewell filters so the quaility should be good. Would like to hear from others because a lot has been said about ND filters and how great they are. But if they prevent a sharp picture then It is questionable.
Nice! So that viewers are not confused - the polarizing filter you first mentioned, and the CPL filter are the same thing. CPL designates the polarizing filter as a circular polarizing filter which has 2 layers that can be rotated with respect to each other (hence the H and V settings). I would like to have seen some mention of the fact that polarizing filters don't just cut reflections from surfaces on or near the ground, they cut light reflecting off dust in the atmosphere too, so they can make a blue sky VERY blue (darker too) and thus, create stunning contrast with white clouds in that blue sky. However the cool polarizing ability of the CPL filter works best at 90 degrees to the sun (sun off to one side of the drone). If you hope for stunning polarization while the drone is pointed toward or away from the sun, you may notice very little effect. And yes, since a polarizer blocks some light, it too acts a little like a weak ND filter (though it is not classified as an ND).
Hi @@AndreasHvilhoej ... I'll try to explain. Polarizers cut out all light whose waves are in random directions, and allow only light with its waves in one particular direction. By rotating the PL filter, you change which direction of light waves are allowed through. When light is produced it is random, but when light reflects off of surfaces it becomes mostly polarized in ONE direction. So in order to cut this glare you need to rotate your polarizing filter to find the angle that cuts that glare - hence the rotation of the filter. CPL does exactly the same thing but in a way that is more difficult to explain. For most modern cameras (certainly mirrorless cameras), you can ignore the difference between PL and CPL filters - they do the same thing. However ND filters are simply darkeners. You can use a polarizing filter (PL or CPL) as a weak ND filter because they darken the scene (since they cut out some light). But you cannot use an ND filter (which only darkens) to polarize light (cut reflections and glare). Hope that helps.
Great vid, thanks! I picked up the Freewell filters and I love them. If/when you get the time, a video outlining conditions for a particular filter (e.g. 32) and recommended ISO settings for particular effects would be very helpful.
Ideally you want your shutter speed double that of your framerate. So 4k30 hq with a 1/60 shutter speed. The iso you want as low as possible (ideally 100). The higher you go the more "noise" you will get in your picture. Then once they are set you just work your way through the filters until the shot isn't over or under exposed. There is a built in histogram (shows exposure levels) and an over exposure warning in the settings.
The 4 and the 8 seem like pointless filters for a wide open 1.7 aperature. Maybe Freewell should do a better 6 piece kit that includes 16, 32, 64, 128 and a 256. This might be more appropriate for this drone.
Today I got my set of six Freewell ND filters. Tomorrow Sunday I will test them once I wake up. Thanks a lot for all your videos about DJI Mini 3 Pro, they are very helpful 👍
Though I'm subscribed to your channel, I've only just stumbled across this video. Reeeeeeally informative and helpful and spot on timing. Thx so much for what you're doing for us in the droning community.
I just got my DJI Mini 3 Pro and ND8 delivered. Can't wait to try them out! I've been using freewell ND filters for DJI Mini SE, and it creates absolutely superb depth to the footage.
9:08 I believe most people won't care, but please do not confuse between Grain and Noise, especially when most audiences watching this video might be new into digital photography and/or videography! Grain is something caused by the celluloid on the film. Grain adds textures. Most people like Grain. Noise is caused by the sensor. It is only happening on digital cameras. Noise destroys image quality. Most people tend to avoid noise as much as possible. When you examine an image pixel-to-pixel, you can immediately tell the difference between heavy grain vs noisy image. It is hard to describe the difference in words, but the difference is very noticeable on images.
Beautiful landscape and a very good video. Polarizing filters and ND filters are two completely different types of filters. Depending on the filter type, the ND filter reduces a defined amount of light. The polarizing filter absorbs light reflections on surfaces. Due to the color saturation, the picture sometimes looks like it was painted. Boats photographed on the water with a polarizing filter appear as if they are floating. Maybe you make a content only to the polarizing filter.
@@wcsdiaries I could send you a link, or you could check this video's affiliated links in the video description for the filters mentioned in the video. Cheers!
I did the same thing. My footage wasn't as good as when I started using them. My shutter was overwhelmed. I have the mini 2. If the aperture is higher on the 3 then you're gonna Most likely need a 128 and 256 during the day. Nothing less. Cause my mini 2 needs a 32 and 64 rite off the bat during a sunny day. I could maybe even use a 128 or 256 if I had em.
Great video just got my first two drones in August. The Mini 3 Pro unboxed tonight live. I have the two Newell filter kits I purchased as well and no clue how to put them on. I use a DJI Action with filters and a DJI mobile. Now I know how to put the filters on. Thanks for this great video.
Dude.....watched 30+ videos on the DJU mini 3 pro. Lots of good/great info. As a photographer since the late 70's I missed the "Fixed 1.7 aperture"! I just assumed it had variable aperture as almost all cameras do. Damn! This is definitely the most relavant video on the DJI mini 3 pro to creating the best possible images! This will be my first drone.....have wanted one for years and like most things electronic, I wait for years for that magic price/value levels, and then buy. This really is the MOST important accessory one should buy. These filters should be standard issue.....seriously. Having your shutter locked on 1.7 would be great if u always shot at dusk/low light situations......but u don't. I can't image the shutter speed at high noon at 1.7! So if u folks take nothing away from DM's video and my comment.......Buy quality glass filters! And unless you're shooting at dusk/low light levels u should probably always have a ND filter on. Thanx DM!!!
@@DMProductions So after thinking about it I was like.... shooting at F1.7 would suck on a DSLR to have to shoot all the time because obviously many times u want more depth of field, like F11 or F22, but obviously you'll get none with a 1.7. My question is how drones get what appears to be much much greater depth of field with a 1.7? Thanx!
Hi and like everyone thanks for keeping us upto speed with best use with our amazing little drone. Well bloody done you. So observation, when I am using Pro Mode I am noticing that the Manual Metering changes too much sometimes as flying around. So, at times the footage can be too dark in some instances. I have done some playing around and am thinking of using in Auto mode with the filters. Looking at the SRT information auto mode brings down the shutter speed low enough to give some motion blur but is tweaking the ISO enough to keep a standard brightness level throughout the videos. So > For me > ND filters + Auto Mode is the way to go (I think)
Suddenly he sits with sunglasses in his studio👍🏻😆Cool video 😎 Im excited to use the bright day 6pack nd/pl, this will be my choice. I also use this package for my Mavic Mini and Im really happy with it. Freewell great quality👌🏻
Brilliant instructions, thank you. I followed it unfortunately I must do something wrong because the videofootage is terrible. Green is not Green the blue is not blue etc. White Balance? Shutter, Horizontal-Vertical...? I must do some investigations.
I just bought a mini 3. This is my first go at photograph/videography. I went with the regular nd filters and not the polarized ones. I feel like I have enough to learn and dont want to have to deal with adjusting the circle to get the popularization correct. Maybe in the future
Brilliant, I need some, I like the way the filters clip on the front, I found it quite fidgety with my hands putting the other ones on (that you sent me thank you again) but you do get a better picture Darren. Cheers again my bestist friend
I think it should be, you need ND Filters if you shoot in pro mode (manual settings) like I do and like you do Darren. If you're perfectly happy with flying in auto mode, you don't need them!
So, the lingering question that I have that nobody seems to talk much about is what the process is like to manually calibrate which filter you want to use according to the ambient lighting conditions at say 200m altitude in the area you intend to be doing video. Say you are set up at 30fps and 1/60th and the interest is in an EV of right around -0.1. Do you put on an ND filter, fly out to the general area that you will be taking video footage and see what your EV is and if it isn't around -0.1 you fly back and change out the ND filter accordingly and then go back up and repeat as necessary until you are settled in with the right ND filter?
I put the drone on a surface facing the light parts of the scene and then put the nd filter on , if the exposure is around 0 it’s fine. It can be slightly over or under 0 and it’ll be fine. Normally nd32 does the job well unless it’s really bright
You say at 2:34 “the lower the shutter speed the better“. It’s not quite true and might be a little bit confusing for beginners. As a rule of thumb, your shutter speed should be 2x that of your FPS. For example, if shooting at 24fps your shutter speed should be 1/50. If shooting at 30fps it should be 1/60 and so on. This is the most natural looking motion blur and is what every film maker will use! set your camera to the above settings as needed, THEN put on the ND filter to check if it is under / over exposed and change the filter depending on this. Thought I’d add some extra insight!!
He explained exactly this in the video. The general rule of thumb is shutter speed needs to be twice the frame rate you're recording at - 25/50 .. 30/60.
@@Saxon_TAG Just pointing out how at 2:32 he says “the lower the shutter speed the better”. That was my only gripe, as if someone is a complete beginner then this is misleading. Don’t want to rewatch the video but please put time stamp of where he goes into the relationship between SS and FPS?
So, what do you think about the Freewell VND filters? A variable ND means you get 4-in-1 filter. Interesting how they use two polarizing filters to offset each other and then have graduated rotation of one PL creating f-stop... And they have a Mist Edition.... I will give them a try... Thanks for the great information. Cheers.
Love the Freewell Filters. I did buy the DJI ND Filters first but will be getting the Freewell(they will fill in the gaps the DJI Filters will miss) as well. Can't have to many ND Filters in the case when you are out capturing footage.
I do have ND and NDCPL filters for my M3, but I don't understand when you say you use them to reduce shutter speed. Surely, when using the rule of 180, then the shutter speed will be fixed at that figure (eg. 30fps = 1/60th sec shuuet speed is used), and if an ND filter is used, you would have to alter ISO, or, if available, aperture, to keep the 180 rule. So, it's not for lowering shutter speed, as you're suggesting here. Are you saying you don't follow the 180 rule?
Some usful info there ahead of me ordering my first drone. Thanks! Not sure if already mentioned in comments somewhere but should be noted the polarization effect when using a cpl (or circular polarizer) of reducing reflections and increasing colour saturation is most profound at right angles to the sun. In fact with the main light source behind or in front of camera there is no such polarization effect worth mentioning. And as you might expect on an overcast day there is very little or no effect either. The polarisor then works simply as a ND filter. As an editorial, events and commercial photographer of some years now I would have a polarizor on all my lenses when shooting outdoors on sunny days - primarily for reducing haze and increasing colour saturation. A loss of rnd 2 stops of light was pretty typical.
Is it not cumbersome to get the correct rotation angle on the polarized filter? On a camera one can simply turn until it seems better - but its right there.
Very useful, but I feel it would have been even better to show the same scene or sequence with and without ND and/or polarizer. Showing the two side by side, perhaps as a split-screen, would have been very helpful. Also, when would you not want to use one or the other (other than in low light)? I only recently discovered your channel. I have been shooting and flying (infrequently) for years but I always learn something useful from your videos. Thanks!
Hi Scott. “Other than in low light..” ? didn’t you mean “bright light”? The ND’s reduce light coming through your fixed-aperture lens meaning your shutter speed has to reduce to get correct exposure eg an ND 64 is a 6 stop filter, so if your correct exposure was 1/4000th sec, adding this filter would require a ss of 1/60, perfectly lowered to give the “natural blur” effect desired. Polarisers reduce about 2 stops of light but they’re mainly used to reduce”glare” which is always present even if not obvious like in super bright water reflections. This has the effect of making colours less washed out and therefore richer.
@@johnty52 Actually, I meant exactly what I wrote. Read it again and I am sure you will understand. You have a fine explanation of ND and CPL filters. I've been a commercial photographer for more decades than I care to admit so I am quite familiar. I am still fairly new to drones, however. So I wonder if there are situations when you would want really fast shutter speeds while filming instead of a more "film-like" look.
Great video thanks but am not clear on something. Are the hybrid nd/pl filters as effective as the cpl filter at getting rid of reflections? I have always used cpl in photography and this is what I use the mini 3 pro for more than video. Also was wondering how the nd16/pl would affect shutter speed. I looked back at a photo I took of a waterfall. The mini 3 selected a shutter speed of 1/320 sec so trying to work out what I would expect regards shutter speed if I had the nd16/pl in place at the time?
Can you please explain the difference between the “all day kit” and the “bright day kit”? Are both of these sets necessary? Which set is best for motion blur and bright sunny days in Phoenix, AZ. Thank you so much for your videos. 🙏🏼
Hi! question: Every time when I use my Mini 3 pro with RC controller with display I touch on the screen for focus.. but automatically the focus changed to the middle .. can I change this somewhere in the settings to hold the focus where I touch without changing it to the middle? Its very frustrating because I can see on the display the focus is not on the point anymore where I want to be the focus is.
Great video, you finally got your ND filters lol, i remember i commented on your first videos when you got this drone and you said you cant wait to get them and now your time has come lol, by the way i got my combo kit just half an hour ago and my drone will be coming tomorrow i cant wait and its my birthday on the 3rd just in time lol
This is very confusing. The manufacturer strives to make cameras with high speed frame rates and you go for the opposite 60fps and put a ND filter on to get blur. Strange. I suppose you like bass extenders on sound systems to obtain a pure sound.
Generally nd 4/8 will be sunsets : sunrise Nd 16/32 day and nd64 brightskies You just put it on and see if the exposure is around 0.0MM once you have the shutter speed correct
Very good explanation - thanks! One question - what is the best filter for eliminating jitteriness from sideways panning motions? Ugh - drives me nuts!
Could you possibly make a tutorial on how to use ND filters and how to change the settings on your drone? I'm completely new to drones and cameras. I don't know what I'm doing lol or how to use shutter speed or iso's
The problem for me with ND and Polarisers on drones is you cant change them once in the air and for someone who does a lot off mixed fly and gun shots with videos, photos and panoramas you will get great video but terrible panos or photos or good videos and great photos so I choose to fly without them. If I would be only doing video then yes put on a ND every time.
CAN ANYONE ANSWER THIS QUESTION PLZ?: Why do the ND filters have to be rotated when switching from horizontal and vertical? Doesn't that mean you have to land the drone when you want to switch orientations? TY
Hi, I have a question. As a total beginner in drones, I just bought mini 3 pro. And my question is which filter would you recommend me for perfect quality plus I want colors to be pretty vivid and live?
I can't understand 1 thing.....we all know that the bigger the aperture the better quality we have because of more light in the lens....so if you have mini 3 pro F1.7 you are way better than mini 2 F2.8..... But when we put nd filter 32 and 16 for mini 2 and we stop the light to insert to the sensor how we are not losing quality....can anyone answer me what happens then?
Based on all the recommendations of ND filters and my fast shutter speeds I got a ND 16, now it is 1/30 sec and blurry, ordered a ND4, still too dark and fuzzy, guess I like sharp videos.
Being a photographer, the very first thing I purchased, once I got a drone, was ND filters, along with Polarising filters, so so important! graduated ND's would be even better
Ok but the drone isn't even out. I won't even se wit till Aug. The states suck at getting this earlier. And the ND filters are nice a si for them on my mini 2. Totally getting these for my mini 3
Hi, I've been watching quite a few of your videos lately, and found them very helpful. I'm considering getting these filters, but I'm unsure of which pack to go for. Most footage I'll be taking will be in the UK (not the brightest of locations!) with the occasionally sunny day and holiday also. Which pack would you recommend?
Why would anyone choose the all day pack instead of the bright day pack when the filters of the bright day pack offer the same ND4/8/16/32/64 filtering but with PL? You only don't get the ND1000 filter. For the rest its the same ND levels as stated on each PL filter. Am i missing something?
As a beginner which set would you recommend, the Mrs isn't going to sign of a budget to buy both sets! I live in the South Lakes so plenty of water and sea, although usually dull weather!
Hi Darren, had my mini 3 for about 6 months now. Am completely new to ND filters and am considering purchasing a set. I live in Australia so quite a bright environment and I fly over water a lot. What set would you recommend? Also I do a lot of urban nighttime photography, are any ND filters required for that scenario? Lastly do variable ND filters have any downsides?
For capturing over water you're better off using ND-PL filters (ND polarized), what this does is it reduces reflections depending on your angle from a light source. ND filters will only be useful on bright scenes. I highly recommend not using any filters during golden hours (sunrise, or sunset). In addition, using ND filters to purposefully show motion-blur in your shots is the way to go. If you're mainly doing cinematic slow moving shots it's best not to use ND filters. for variable ND filters I'd rather just set the exposure to auto, and use an ND32 or ND64 on (ND64 is usually my go-to filter on a bright sunny day, and no ND filter on a cloudy scene). Cheers!
How do the optimal settings of 4K/30 and shutter speed 1/60 relate to the 180 degree rule? Isn't that the rule of keeping two characters at 180° from each other in cinema? Regardless, thanks for getting me up to speed with drone photography.
ND Filters are such an important accessory, especially on the DJI Mini 3 Pro - Freewell ND Filters geni.us/K7fbyc 😁
Unavailable 🙄
I'm using the Skyreat once. Also without any issues for now.
Hey Darren
Today I noticed that my M3P wouldn't set focus whether I tapped on the screen or half pressed the camera button. For objects closer to the camera they would momentarily come into very sharp focus and then blur out . Of course, i could manually adjust the focus and set it to what i wanted. I suspected that the camera wasn't functioning well. Then i thought of removing the ND filter (which at that time was only an ND4) and lo and behold, there was nothing wrong with the focus. Tried it again and indeed the ND filter was messing it up.
Have you had a similar problem? BTW, I am using Freewell filters so the quaility should be good. Would like to hear from others because a lot has been said about ND filters and how great they are. But if they prevent a sharp picture then It is questionable.
Should I get Bright Day Kit or All Day Kit? Which one is the best option for beginners?
@@NickHarbornePhotography should be available now mate
Nice!
So that viewers are not confused - the polarizing filter you first mentioned, and the CPL filter are the same thing. CPL designates the polarizing filter as a circular polarizing filter which has 2 layers that can be rotated with respect to each other (hence the H and V settings). I would like to have seen some mention of the fact that polarizing filters don't just cut reflections from surfaces on or near the ground, they cut light reflecting off dust in the atmosphere too, so they can make a blue sky VERY blue (darker too) and thus, create stunning contrast with white clouds in that blue sky. However the cool polarizing ability of the CPL filter works best at 90 degrees to the sun (sun off to one side of the drone). If you hope for stunning polarization while the drone is pointed toward or away from the sun, you may notice very little effect. And yes, since a polarizer blocks some light, it too acts a little like a weak ND filter (though it is not classified as an ND).
I dont get the whole rotation of pl filters? Why? And if sp important why dont all pl filters have the ability?
Hi @@AndreasHvilhoej ... I'll try to explain.
Polarizers cut out all light whose waves are in random directions, and allow only light with its waves in one particular direction. By rotating the PL filter, you change which direction of light waves are allowed through. When light is produced it is random, but when light reflects off of surfaces it becomes mostly polarized in ONE direction. So in order to cut this glare you need to rotate your polarizing filter to find the angle that cuts that glare - hence the rotation of the filter. CPL does exactly the same thing but in a way that is more difficult to explain. For most modern cameras (certainly mirrorless cameras), you can ignore the difference between PL and CPL filters - they do the same thing.
However ND filters are simply darkeners. You can use a polarizing filter (PL or CPL) as a weak ND filter because they darken the scene (since they cut out some light). But you cannot use an ND filter (which only darkens) to polarize light (cut reflections and glare).
Hope that helps.
@@scottgarriott3884 yes thanks so much
Best explanation ive come across
Great vid, thanks! I picked up the Freewell filters and I love them. If/when you get the time, a video outlining conditions for a particular filter (e.g. 32) and recommended ISO settings for particular effects would be very helpful.
Ideally you want your shutter speed double that of your framerate. So 4k30 hq with a 1/60 shutter speed. The iso you want as low as possible (ideally 100). The higher you go the more "noise" you will get in your picture. Then once they are set you just work your way through the filters until the shot isn't over or under exposed. There is a built in histogram (shows exposure levels) and an over exposure warning in the settings.
The 4 and the 8 seem like pointless filters for a wide open 1.7 aperature. Maybe Freewell should do a better 6 piece kit that includes 16, 32, 64, 128 and a 256. This might be more appropriate for this drone.
Today I got my set of six Freewell ND filters. Tomorrow Sunday I will test them once I wake up.
Thanks a lot for all your videos about DJI Mini 3 Pro, they are very helpful 👍
Thank you 🙏
Though I'm subscribed to your channel, I've only just stumbled across this video. Reeeeeeally informative and helpful and spot on timing. Thx so much for what you're doing for us in the droning community.
Awesome, thank you!
I just got my DJI Mini 3 Pro and ND8 delivered. Can't wait to try them out! I've been using freewell ND filters for DJI Mini SE, and it creates absolutely superb depth to the footage.
9:08
I believe most people won't care, but please do not confuse between Grain and Noise, especially when most audiences watching this video might be new into digital photography and/or videography!
Grain is something caused by the celluloid on the film. Grain adds textures. Most people like Grain.
Noise is caused by the sensor. It is only happening on digital cameras. Noise destroys image quality. Most people tend to avoid noise as much as possible.
When you examine an image pixel-to-pixel, you can immediately tell the difference between heavy grain vs noisy image. It is hard to describe the difference in words, but the difference is very noticeable on images.
This is all new to me … this video helped me a lot … you kept it simple , no waffle easy to understand , thank you 🙏
Thank you means a lot
Excellent video love the intro and the shots! Masterclass, Freewell make the best filters
Much appreciated!
That footage is ace at the beginning around a stunning part of the world that I know very well . These filters defo make a difference.
Excellent presentation Darren, top drawer! I’m a beginner & your vids are easy to understand yet comprehensive! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Very helpful video, thanks. But do note that Pola filters reduce reflections from non-metallic surface, not all surfaces.
Beautiful landscape and a very good video. Polarizing filters and ND filters are two completely different types of filters. Depending on the filter type, the ND filter reduces a defined amount of light. The polarizing filter absorbs light reflections on surfaces. Due to the color saturation, the picture sometimes looks like it was painted. Boats photographed on the water with a polarizing filter appear as if they are floating. Maybe you make a content only to the polarizing filter.
are there any polarizing lenses that also have an ND aspect to them for mini 3? I need both lol
Pola filters reduce reflections from *non-metallic* surface, not all surfaces.
@@wcsdiaries There are NDPL filters available.
@@patrickjeromeobaldo2450 do oyu haev a link?
@@wcsdiaries I could send you a link, or you could check this video's affiliated links in the video description for the filters mentioned in the video. Cheers!
I did the same thing. My footage wasn't as good as when I started using them. My shutter was overwhelmed. I have the mini 2. If the aperture is higher on the 3 then you're gonna Most likely need a 128 and 256 during the day. Nothing less. Cause my mini 2 needs a 32 and 64 rite off the bat during a sunny day. I could maybe even use a 128 or 256 if I had em.
Great video just got my first two drones in August. The Mini 3 Pro unboxed tonight live. I have the two Newell filter kits I purchased as well and no clue how to put them on. I use a DJI Action with filters and a DJI mobile. Now I know how to put the filters on. Thanks for this great video.
Thank you 🙏 glad it helped
Dude.....watched 30+ videos on the DJU mini 3 pro. Lots of good/great info. As a photographer since the late 70's I missed the "Fixed 1.7 aperture"! I just assumed it had variable aperture as almost all cameras do. Damn! This is definitely the most relavant video on the DJI mini 3 pro to creating the best possible images! This will be my first drone.....have wanted one for years and like most things electronic, I wait for years for that magic price/value levels, and then buy. This really is the MOST important accessory one should buy. These filters should be standard issue.....seriously. Having your shutter locked on 1.7 would be great if u always shot at dusk/low light situations......but u don't. I can't image the shutter speed at high noon at 1.7! So if u folks take nothing away from DM's video and my comment.......Buy quality glass filters! And unless you're shooting at dusk/low light levels u should probably always have a ND filter on. Thanx DM!!!
Absolutely! Thank you for the comment and yes the fixed f1.7 can be a downfall in day light conditions so a nd and a strong nd filter is essential !
@@DMProductions So after thinking about it I was like.... shooting at F1.7 would suck on a DSLR to have to shoot all the time because obviously many times u want more depth of field, like F11 or F22, but obviously you'll get none with a 1.7. My question is how drones get what appears to be much much greater depth of field with a 1.7? Thanx!
@@toddhildebrand It is all about the image sensor size. In a DSLR/Mirrorless it is much larger so you can blur background easily.
Hi and like everyone thanks for keeping us upto speed with best use with our amazing little drone. Well bloody done you. So observation, when I am using Pro Mode I am noticing that the Manual Metering changes too much sometimes as flying around. So, at times the footage can be too dark in some instances. I have done some playing around and am thinking of using in Auto mode with the filters. Looking at the SRT information auto mode brings down the shutter speed low enough to give some motion blur but is tweaking the ISO enough to keep a standard brightness level throughout the videos. So > For me > ND filters + Auto Mode is the way to go (I think)
Suddenly he sits with sunglasses in his studio👍🏻😆Cool video 😎 Im excited to use the bright day 6pack nd/pl, this will be my choice. I also use this package for my Mavic Mini and Im really happy with it. Freewell great quality👌🏻
Hey buddy yes that’s a great choice !
Great video. Gonna pick up a set, but ND filters do not reduce reflection and glare. They simply allow for longer shutter speeds. Only CPOL's do that.
Freewell is making a 2-5 stop and 6-9stop adjustable variable Nd filters for the drone
Thanks for this advice. Well presented and thorough.
Bizarrely I know the road that you filmed. I have parked overnight there in my motorhome!
Brilliant instructions, thank you. I followed it unfortunately I must do something wrong because the videofootage is terrible. Green is not Green the blue is not blue etc. White Balance? Shutter, Horizontal-Vertical...? I must do some investigations.
I just bought a mini 3. This is my first go at photograph/videography. I went with the regular nd filters and not the polarized ones. I feel like I have enough to learn and dont want to have to deal with adjusting the circle to get the popularization correct. Maybe in the future
Absolutely good choice
Good work again dude, thanks!
Brilliant, I need some, I like the way the filters clip on the front, I found it quite fidgety with my hands putting the other ones on (that you sent me thank you again) but you do get a better picture Darren. Cheers again my bestist friend
Yes these are much easier Wally ! Thanks for watching mate
Love the intro
thank you !
I think it should be, you need ND Filters if you shoot in pro mode (manual settings) like I do and like you do Darren. If you're perfectly happy with flying in auto mode, you don't need them!
Thanks Darren ordered the All Day 6 pack. Excellent Video as ever.
Awesome good choice!
So, the lingering question that I have that nobody seems to talk much about is what the process is like to manually calibrate which filter you want to use according to the ambient lighting conditions at say 200m altitude in the area you intend to be doing video. Say you are set up at 30fps and 1/60th and the interest is in an EV of right around -0.1. Do you put on an ND filter, fly out to the general area that you will be taking video footage and see what your EV is and if it isn't around -0.1 you fly back and change out the ND filter accordingly and then go back up and repeat as necessary until you are settled in with the right ND filter?
I put the drone on a surface facing the light parts of the scene and then put the nd filter on , if the exposure is around 0 it’s fine. It can be slightly over or under 0 and it’ll be fine. Normally nd32 does the job well unless it’s really bright
i noticed those oyster catchers were having a go at your drone mate
You say at 2:34 “the lower the shutter speed the better“. It’s not quite true and might be a little bit confusing for beginners.
As a rule of thumb, your shutter speed should be 2x that of your FPS. For example, if shooting at 24fps your shutter speed should be 1/50. If shooting at 30fps it should be 1/60 and so on. This is the most natural looking motion blur and is what every film maker will use!
set your camera to the above settings as needed, THEN put on the ND filter to check if it is under / over exposed and change the filter depending on this.
Thought I’d add some extra insight!!
He explained exactly this in the video. The general rule of thumb is shutter speed needs to be twice the frame rate you're recording at - 25/50 .. 30/60.
@@Saxon_TAG Just pointing out how at 2:32 he says “the lower the shutter speed the better”. That was my only gripe, as if someone is a complete beginner then this is misleading. Don’t want to rewatch the video but please put time stamp of where he goes into the relationship between SS and FPS?
Thanks. I have a mini 2 and was thinking about ND filters. This video has helped a lot! 🙂
Perfect thank you
Once again great tips n video. Also Im not sure you already know about this, but the rc screen is now compatible to the mavic 3.
Yes big review coming tomorrow 😊
Fantastic I’m getting these
thank you Charles!!
Check out the latest update for the DJI RC Controller as you will be amazed.
So, what do you think about the Freewell VND filters? A variable ND means you get 4-in-1 filter. Interesting how they use two polarizing filters to offset each other and then have graduated rotation of one PL creating f-stop... And they have a Mist Edition.... I will give them a try... Thanks for the great information. Cheers.
Love the Freewell Filters. I did buy the DJI ND Filters first but will be getting the Freewell(they will fill in the gaps the DJI Filters will miss) as well. Can't have to many ND Filters in the case when you are out capturing footage.
Exactly it’s better to have a wide range and these cover you for everything
I do have ND and NDCPL filters for my M3, but I don't understand when you say you use them to reduce shutter speed. Surely, when using the rule of 180, then the shutter speed will be fixed at that figure (eg. 30fps = 1/60th sec shuuet speed is used), and if an ND filter is used, you would have to alter ISO, or, if available, aperture, to keep the 180 rule. So, it's not for lowering shutter speed, as you're suggesting here. Are you saying you don't follow the 180 rule?
All Day 6pack ordered, Great video!
it is always good to hear a wise one :)
Some usful info there ahead of me ordering my first drone. Thanks! Not sure if already mentioned in comments somewhere but should be noted the polarization effect when using a cpl (or circular polarizer) of reducing reflections and increasing colour saturation is most profound at right angles to the sun. In fact with the main light source behind or in front of camera there is no such polarization effect worth mentioning.
And as you might expect on an overcast day there is very little or no effect either. The polarisor then works simply as a ND filter. As an editorial, events and commercial photographer of some years now I would have a polarizor on all my lenses when shooting outdoors on sunny days - primarily for reducing haze and increasing colour saturation. A loss of rnd 2 stops of light was pretty typical.
Hello there
Have you used freewell product? If you used it, were you satisfied?
@@volkanocak9974 Sorry, don't have a drone yet but if not DJI's own filters I would probably go for the Freewell too based on the reviews I've seen.
Good review and tutorial video Darren.
Thank you 😊
Cool little video I have the DJI and Skyreat ones made a few videos on them too cheers Hieth
Is it not cumbersome to get the correct rotation angle on the polarized filter? On a camera one can simply turn until it seems better - but its right there.
Could definitely use these, just starting out with a Dji mini 3 pro drone. It’s my first one. Pick me thanks
Very useful, but I feel it would have been even better to show the same scene or sequence with and without ND and/or
polarizer. Showing the two side by side, perhaps as a split-screen, would have been very helpful. Also, when would you not want to use one or the other (other than in low light)?
I only recently discovered your channel. I have been shooting and flying (infrequently) for years but I always learn something useful from your videos. Thanks!
thank you appreciate Scott
Hi Scott. “Other than in low light..” ? didn’t you mean “bright light”?
The ND’s reduce light coming through your fixed-aperture lens meaning your shutter speed has to reduce to get correct exposure eg an ND 64 is a 6 stop filter, so if your correct exposure was 1/4000th sec, adding this filter would require a ss of 1/60, perfectly lowered to give the “natural blur” effect desired. Polarisers reduce about 2 stops of light but they’re mainly used to reduce”glare” which is always present even if not obvious like in super bright water reflections. This has the effect of making colours less washed out and therefore richer.
@@johnty52 Actually, I meant exactly what I wrote. Read it again and I am sure you will understand.
You have a fine explanation of ND and CPL filters. I've been a commercial photographer for more decades than I care to admit so I am quite familiar. I am still fairly new to drones, however. So I wonder if there are situations when you would want really fast shutter speeds while filming instead of a more "film-like" look.
@@ScottWitte yep, got it now, my mis-read Scott. :(
I’m also new to drones and video in general, Darren’s video was useful in both respects.
Just got them. Looking forward to trying them
Great video thanks but am not clear on something. Are the hybrid nd/pl filters as effective as the cpl filter at getting rid of reflections? I have always used cpl in photography and this is what I use the mini 3 pro for more than video.
Also was wondering how the nd16/pl would affect shutter speed. I looked back at a photo I took of a waterfall. The mini 3 selected a shutter speed of 1/320 sec so trying to work out what I would expect regards shutter speed if I had the nd16/pl in place at the time?
What's the strongest ND filter you can use before you run this risk of blurring everything by having too slow of a shutter speed?
These filters look awesome Darren… just waiting for Amazon to restock…. Hopefully !
Yes I’ve been told will be very soon
Can you please explain the difference between the “all day kit” and the “bright day kit”? Are both of these sets necessary? Which set is best for motion blur and bright sunny days in Phoenix, AZ. Thank you so much for your videos. 🙏🏼
You figure this out?
Hi! question: Every time when I use my Mini 3 pro with RC controller with display I touch on the screen for focus.. but automatically the focus changed to the middle .. can I change this somewhere in the settings to hold the focus where I touch without changing it to the middle? Its very frustrating because I can see on the display the focus is not on the point anymore where I want to be the focus is.
Another great video Darren. Regards🇦🇺
Great video, you finally got your ND filters lol, i remember i commented on your first videos when you got this drone and you said you cant wait to get them and now your time has come lol, by the way i got my combo kit just half an hour ago and my drone will be coming tomorrow i cant wait and its my birthday on the 3rd just in time lol
Boy, what timing. I just received the Freewell ND pack but not the polarizer yet. Thank you for the video.
Perfect timing hey !
Why not get VND filters?? Instead of set ND filters
This is very confusing. The manufacturer strives to make cameras with high speed frame rates and you go for the opposite 60fps and put a ND filter on to get blur. Strange. I suppose you like bass extenders on sound systems to obtain a pure sound.
My Sony a7s3 films in 4k120 and every filmmaker will also put a ND filter on that too to get the very best results in bright conditions
Great video thank you. Which ND filters should I buy for my mini 3 pro? also which one should I use for snowy mountains? Thank you
I just looked both links for the filters are for the All day ND filters. I guess those are good enough :)
Just got the freewell all day pack. I always keep an ND 4 on my drone. Instantly replaced the oem.
Great vid, being new to this how do you determine which filter to use for what condition? Time of day? I have the 16, 64 and 256 pack
Generally nd 4/8 will be sunsets : sunrise
Nd 16/32 day and nd64 brightskies
You just put it on and see if the exposure is around 0.0MM once you have the shutter speed correct
@@DMProductions The ND 256, in what conditions that number?
When you you know what level of filter to use Darren, do you have to keep popping the drone up and down.
Very good explanation - thanks! One question - what is the best filter for eliminating jitteriness from sideways panning motions? Ugh - drives me nuts!
Could you possibly make a tutorial on how to use ND filters and how to change the settings on your drone? I'm completely new to drones and cameras. I don't know what I'm doing lol or how to use shutter speed or iso's
This bit really get me confused 😐 I need to master these ND filters
Couldn't you do without NDs if you used 60fps? At least in theory 60fps should be far more forgiving not following the 180-shutter-rule?! ❓
The problem for me with ND and Polarisers on drones is you cant change them once in the air and for someone who does a lot off mixed fly and gun shots with videos, photos and panoramas you will get great video but terrible panos or photos or good videos and great photos so I choose to fly without them. If I would be only doing video then yes put on a ND every time.
Where a ND32 filter on a Mini 2 was good enough for a sunny day, I have now to use a ND64+ on my Mini 3 Pro.
Yes this is due to the f1.7 a stronger strength will be needed
CAN ANYONE ANSWER THIS QUESTION PLZ?: Why do the ND filters have to be rotated when switching from horizontal and vertical? Doesn't that mean you have to land the drone when you want to switch orientations? TY
Hi, I have a question. As a total beginner in drones, I just bought mini 3 pro. And my question is which filter would you recommend me for perfect quality plus I want colors to be pretty vivid and live?
I can't understand 1 thing.....we all know that the bigger the aperture the better quality we have because of more light in the lens....so if you have mini 3 pro F1.7 you are way better than mini 2 F2.8.....
But when we put nd filter 32 and 16 for mini 2 and we stop the light to insert to the sensor how we are not losing quality....can anyone answer me what happens then?
Great video thank you mate
I have the SKYREAT ones and they are the ones for sure I posted a video using nd 16 10/10 purchase ⚠️📈 great video as always
Nice 👍
If you was to buy just one to begin with, which ND would it be?
Thanks definetlly need to have them.
You sure do !
Based on all the recommendations of ND filters and my fast shutter speeds I got a ND 16, now it is 1/30 sec and blurry, ordered a ND4, still too dark and fuzzy, guess I like sharp videos.
1/30 is too low, you need to double the frame rate ie 1/60 1/50 and low iso
Is there a ND filter good for overall use?
Can you help me understand better whats the difference between all day filter and bright day filters.
Which one we should bug i am very confused
Being a photographer, the very first thing I purchased, once I got a drone, was ND filters, along with Polarising filters, so so important! graduated ND's would be even better
Exactly !!
What polarizing filter did you pick up????
@@cschumacher1130 I have the mini two, so mine wouldn't work on the newer drone
Ok but the drone isn't even out. I won't even se wit till Aug. The states suck at getting this earlier. And the ND filters are nice a si for them on my mini 2. Totally getting these for my mini 3
try setting up that CPL filter :P
Am I missing it or there is no gyroflow preset for dji action 2 ?
Hi, I've been watching quite a few of your videos lately, and found them very helpful. I'm considering getting these filters, but I'm unsure of which pack to go for. Most footage I'll be taking will be in the UK (not the brightest of locations!) with the occasionally sunny day and holiday also. Which pack would you recommend?
Hey if you get the Pl filters they will cover you for over water and holidays too 😊 I’ve linked both packs if you want to check them out
Nice video. But if i can choose...anamorphic lens make a big difference.
Hopefully they will be here tomorrow with the rest of my perks. The CPL /hybrid variants are not available for me yet.
Nice one ! Sound’s like you will have a good set up!
@@DMProductions I’m so in love with the plus batteries they are amazing
thank you for the information, appreciate it!
Thank you 😊
Why would anyone choose the all day pack instead of the bright day pack when the filters of the bright day pack offer the same ND4/8/16/32/64 filtering but with PL? You only don't get the ND1000 filter. For the rest its the same ND levels as stated on each PL filter. Am i missing something?
Do you have a link for the NDPL filters? The links are the same, both for the All Day Filters. Thanks for the great video and content!
My Freewell filters are not marked on the side, they have tiny markings on the front that is skims impossible to read.
What would be your first choice between the 2 would it be the ND4-1000 or the NDPL4-64 pack
Thank you for a great video. The only bad side of this ND filter pack is that the pack don't have the UV filter. You have to buy it separate.
Yes I get you, do you use that filter ?
Not if you buy the vivid and shutter filters in the one pack , you get a UV filter with it
@@DMProductions Yes I have used it a few times with my Mini 2. Not often but good to have.
@@DMProductions are there any nd filters that also have a polarized function? Would come in handy for the ocean
I have to pick one of the sets, either nd/pl or just nd filters, which would anyone recommend?
what about the variable ND for the mini 3 produced by freewell? are they the same in terms of the quality ?
As a beginner which set would you recommend, the Mrs isn't going to sign of a budget to buy both sets! I live in the South Lakes so plenty of water and sea, although usually dull weather!
I would go for the nd/pl and cpl it’s my fav 😊
Hi Darren, had my mini 3 for about 6 months now. Am completely new to ND filters and am considering purchasing a set. I live in Australia so quite a bright environment and I fly over water a lot. What set would you recommend? Also I do a lot of urban nighttime photography, are any ND filters required for that scenario? Lastly do variable ND filters have any downsides?
For capturing over water you're better off using ND-PL filters (ND polarized), what this does is it reduces reflections depending on your angle from a light source. ND filters will only be useful on bright scenes. I highly recommend not using any filters during golden hours (sunrise, or sunset). In addition, using ND filters to purposefully show motion-blur in your shots is the way to go. If you're mainly doing cinematic slow moving shots it's best not to use ND filters.
for variable ND filters I'd rather just set the exposure to auto, and use an ND32 or ND64 on (ND64 is usually my go-to filter on a bright sunny day, and no ND filter on a cloudy scene).
Cheers!
What’s the difference between the All Day Filters and the Bright Day Filters I see one is round and the other rectangular ??
love freewell
great vid! you have another subscriber here
Thank you so much 😊
How do the optimal settings of 4K/30 and shutter speed 1/60 relate to the 180 degree rule? Isn't that the rule of keeping two characters at 180° from each other in cinema? Regardless, thanks for getting me up to speed with drone photography.