Haida Pro II 2-in-1 Filter Review: A Video Shooter’s Perspective

Haida PRO II 2 in 1 CPL and VND Lens Filter Review

This is my full review of the Haida PRO II MC CPL-VND 82mm filter for filmmaking and photography.  This review will cover everything you need to know regarding using the Haida Pro II filter for filmmaking and video production.

 

About this Review:

As a video shooter, I’ve had the opportunity to test and evaluate the Haida Pro II filter series.  In this review, I’ll share my experience with these filters, highlighting their benefits and tradeoffs specifically for video shooting.

Throughout my testing, I have used the Haida 2-in-1 87mm filter on my Panasonic S5II, LUMX GH6, Sony FX30, and Sony FX3.  This filter has performed wonderfully through my testing and only has a few minor negatives.

Haida Pro II 2-in-1 Circular Polarizer and Neutral Density Filter Video Review

Below is my full review of this 2-in-1 filter on my Panasonic S5II and GH6 cameras.

Best Price online – B&H Photo | | Amazon AU | Amazon UK

Benefits:

1.  Optical Quality: This filter excels in optical quality.  Made with high-quality glass or optical resin, they effectively minimize color casts and maintain excellent image clarity.  This is crucial for video shooters seeking accurate and nice colors without compromising image sharpness.

2.  Easy Installation: The screw-on design of the Haida Pro II filters ensures quick and hassle-free installation.  This particularly benefits video shooters who must adjust quickly in dynamic shooting situations.  I suggest buying Haida’s largest-size filter, then using step-up rings for smaller lenses.  The result is you’ll save money in the long run.

3.  Versatility: The range of filter options available in this filter series provides versatility for video shooters.  Whether you require neutral density (ND) filters for smooth motion blur, graduated neutral density (GND) filters for balancing exposure in landscapes, or polarizing (CPL) filters for reducing glare, these filters have you covered.

4.  Durable Build: The Haida Pro II filters are constructed with durability in mind.  The robust materials and build quality make them suitable for demanding shooting conditions, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of on-location video production.

 

Best Panasonic LUMIX GH6 Dynamic Range Boost ND Filter

For LUMIX GH6 shooters using Dynamic Range Boost, a good filter is worth investing in.  When the GH6 shoots V-LOG with Dynamic range boost on, the ISO is ramped up to 2000.  You need an ND Filter for shooting with Dynamic Range boost in VLOG. 

I would also suggest it when shooting in the normal picture profiles with DRB on, as the ISO will be up at 800.  This is the best filter I have used for shooting with Dynamic Range Boost on the GH6. 

 

Sony FX30 or FX30 Best ND Filter

Sony FX30 or FX3 CINE-EI, or CINE-EI quick shooters will appreciate this filter.  This will allow you to shoot using the optimum exposure index for the camera (base ISO) and get the best results when shooting LOG. 

Additionally, suppose you prefer to shoot in one of the picture profiles.  In that case, you can drastically improve your scene’s exposure and motion blur, allowing you to get more professional or cinematic results.  The CINE-EI modes are designed to be used with ND filters. 

Tradeoffs:

1.  Filter Stack Height:  A tradeoff to consider when using Haida Pro II filters is their stack height.  These filters have a noticeable thickness, and the ND filter lever sticks out quite a lot.  I have heard stories of this lever being accidentally broken off in a DPReview video.  I have not had an issue with this so far.

2.  Limited Filter Size Range: While the Haida Pro II filters are available in various sizes, the range may not cover every lens diameter.  If you have l  ses with uncommon filter thread sizes, you might encounter difficulty finding the right filter to fit your specific lenses.  Again, use step-up rings for the best results.

3.  Increased Flaring:  Putting a piece of glass before your lens creates more flaring; this filter is no exception.  Expect to see an increase in flaring when shooting toward a direct light source.

 

Conclusion:

The Haida Pro II filter series offers n excellent choice for video shooters with its outstanding optical quality, ease of installation, versatility, and durable build.  While some tradeoffs exist, such as filter stack height and limited filter size range, these filters still deliver impressive results for video production needs.  Whether you’re shooting landscapes, documentaries, or cinematic footage, these filters can elevate the quality of your videos and provide a reliable toolset for your creative vision.

Best Price online – B&H Photo | | Amazon AU | Amazon UK

Ethics Disclaimer:

Haida did send me the Pro II 2 in 1 filter for review.  No money changed hands, and all thoughts about it are mine.  They are letting me hold onto this sample unit.