ND Filters Are Now the Most Important Exposure Setting in Cinematography (Yes, Really)

Variable ND filters are the most essential exposure tool in today’s filmmaking workflow.

Why Variable ND Filters Are the Most Important Exposure Tool

Why Variable ND Filters Are the Most Important Exposure Tool

When most people think about camera settings, the first things that come to mind are shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. But after years in the field, I can tell you from experience: today, ND filters—specifically variable ND filters—are the most essential tool when it comes to exposure.

How I Got Here

I’ve been shooting professionally since 2004 and have watched the evolution of camera technology shape how we shoot. From broadcast cameras to DSLRs and mirrorless systems, and now into the era of dual native ISO sensors, it’s clear that sensor technology has changed everything.

Sony Dynamic Range Chart

DaVinci Resolve now uses Sony Raw

With cameras like the Sony FX6, which I use daily, I’ve found that once I lock into my native ISO, I rarely touch it again. Why? Because with dual native ISO and the power of Sony RAW in DaVinci Resolve, I can manipulate ISO in post.  To be clear—I'm not talking about shooting in RAW. The software reads and applies the Sony RAW metadata for any compatible Sony footage, giving you a remarkable level of control in post-production. This means you can adjust exposure settings like ISO non-destructively, similar to the flexibility RED shooters have enjoyed for years. So even if you’re not recording in RAW, DaVinci still unlocks advanced post tools that let you fine-tune your image without compromising quality.

So, ISO is no longer a tool for exposure—it’s a tool for managing dynamic range.

The Real Role of ISO Today

ISO’s role has shifted. Instead of using it to brighten or darken a shot, I now use it to shift dynamic range—choosing whether I want more highlight or shadow detail depending on the scene. DaVinci Resolve now treats the EI (Exposure Index) metadata from Sony RAW files as the recorded ISO setting, just like RED cameras. This gives me the flexibility to adjust exposure in post-production without touching the actual sensor readout. That’s a game changer.

Why ISO, Aperture, and Shutter Speed Aren’t Exposure Tools Anymore

ISO helps manage dynamic range. Aperture gives you depth of field. Shutter speed affects motion blur. But none of them should be your first tool for exposure control anymore. ND filters—especially variable ND filters—are now how I manage exposure. Period.

Slow Shutter

Aperture

Why Variable ND Filters Changed Everything

Variable ND filters allow me to maintain my chosen aperture and shutter speed—creative decisions—while controlling light with precision. This is especially true for internal electronic ND filters like the one built into the FX6, which goes from ND4 to ND128 in a seamless, stopless way. I can dial in the exact amount of light without touching my camera’s creative settings.

Practical Applications on Set

Whether I’m shooting a timelapse, adjusting exposure for a client on set, or fine-tuning my lighting ratios, variable ND filters give me full control. For example, if I carefully dial in lighting ratios with my gaffer and then realize the overall level is too bright, I don’t need to reset every light. I just add more ND. Ratios stay intact—workflow stays fast.

Shooting in Corporate Environments

In uncontrolled office settings, I often face scanning issues on monitors. I can set my shutter speed to eliminate that issue, lock in my aperture for consistent depth of field, and simply use the ND filter to adjust exposure room to room. It's efficient and ensures consistency.

Biggest Takeaways

• ISO is now for dynamic range control—not brightness.
• Aperture and shutter speed are creative tools, not exposure tools.
• ND filters are your real exposure control. Use them to maintain consistency and creative intent without compromise.

by Chris Tinard ©️ cNOMADIC 2025

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