Graduated filters for landscape photography – using GND filters correctly
Sky too bright, foreground too dark?
Then you need a graduated filter – also called a GND filter. These special filters balance out strong brightness differences in the image and help you get perfectly exposed landscape photos straight out of the camera – without any post-processing.
What is a GND filter?
A GND (Graduated Neutral Density) filter is a graduated neutral density filter that darkens the upper part of the image—usually the sky—while leaving the lower part transparent. This creates a smooth transition between light and dark parts of the image. GND filters help balance harsh contrasts between sky and landscape , revealing details in both areas. Ideal for shots with strong backlight, sunsets, or bright cloud formations.
Why GND filters are indispensable in landscape photography
- Balanced exposure without HDR or post-processing
- More dynamics and depth in the image
- Particularly effective at sunrise and sunset
- Natural-looking results as soon as you take the photo
What GND filters are there – and when do you use which one?
| type | Designation | Typical application |
|---|---|---|
| Hard GND | e.g. 0.9 / 1.2 | For flat horizons (e.g. sea, desert) |
| Soft GND | e.g. 0.9 / 1.2 | For rough transitions such as mountains or forests |
| Reverse GND | e.g. 0.9 / 1.2 | For sunrises and sunsets with light on the horizon |
| Center GND | e.g. 1.2 | For symmetrical light sources in the center |
Discover now:
Hard GND 0.9 Filter | Soft GND 1.2 Filter | Reverse GND 0.9 Filter | Center GND filter
The perfect setup: LC-PRO 100 filter system + GND filter
The GND filter only achieves its full effect in the appropriate holder system. That's why I developed the LC-PRO 100 filter system —especially for landscape photographers like you:
LC-PRO 100 advantages for GND users:
- Precise vertical adjustment of the filter
- Space for up to 3 insert filters – e.g. ND + GND simultaneously
- Side access – no need to adjust the camera
- Magnetic CPL can be used decoupled optionally
Riko Best , photographer and developer of the LC-PRO 100, knows the demands of the outdoors – from dunes to mountains.
Discover the LC-PRO 100 starter set now
5 tips for perfect pictures with graduated filters
- Use a stable tripod and position the camera precisely.
- Select the appropriate filter type for the subject (hard, soft, etc.).
- Align the transition exactly to the horizon or light area.
- Combine GND with ND filters for long exposures.
- Switch the exposure metering to manual.
FAQ – GND filter
What does 0.9 or 1.2 mean at GND?
These values indicate the strength of the filter in f-stops: 0.9 corresponds to 3 f-stops, 1.2 corresponds to 4 f-stops darkening in the upper area.
Can I combine multiple GNDs?
Technically yes, but usually a single filter in combination with an ND or CPL is sufficient.
What is the difference to a classic ND filter?
ND filters are uniformly dark – GND filters have a gradient, ideal for sky-landscape combinations.
Discover your GND filters now
A filter system by photographers – for photographers
More than 20 years of photography experience. A growing community. And a filter system that works exactly where others fail.