Combine ND and CPL filters – For brilliant landscape photos with depth
Do you want flowing water AND rich colors without reflections?
Then the combination of an ND filter and a CPL filter (polarizing filter) is just what you need. Used together, they ensure long-exposure images with strong contrast, anti-reflective water, and intense colors – straight out of the camera. Learn how to effectively combine both filter types and why the LC-PRO 100 filter system from Filterfotograf is ideal for this.
Difference between ND and CPL
- ND filter: Reduces light evenly – for long exposures during the day
- CPL filter: Reduces reflections and increases color saturation – especially for water, foliage, and sky
➡️ Used together, you get smooth, razor-sharp, and color-intensive images – with perfect control over exposure and flare.
Typical application scenarios
- Waterscapes: ND for flowing movement, CPL for clear view to the bottom
- Autumn forests: ND for longer exposure, CPL for richer colors and less glare on leaves
- Sky & Clouds: ND for soft structures, CPL for dramatic contrasts and blue gradations
Recommended combinations
| scenario | ND filter | CPL effect |
|---|---|---|
| Stream in the forest | ND64 or ND1000 | Reduces shine on water surface |
| Mountain lake with stones | ND8–ND64 | Anti-reflective water, view to bottom |
| Deciduous forest in autumn | ND8 or ND64 | Richer colors, less shine on leaves |
Filter change made easy – with the LC-PRO 100
The LC-PRO 100 filter system from Filterfotograf was specially developed to make ND and CPL filters easy to combine :
- Magnetic Slim-CPL – attached directly to the adapter ring
- Laterally adjustable – even with mounted holder
- ND filter in the slide-in system – with space for up to 3 filters
- No need to adjust the camera
To the LC-PRO 100 starter set with CPL filter
5 practical tips for the combination ND + CPL
- Insert CPL first and align correctly
- Then select ND filter and insert
- Polarizing filter effect strongest at 90° to the light source
- ND reduces brightness – adjust exposure manually
- Use a tripod and set the focus before inserting
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Conclusion: Two filters – one goal: better pictures
ND and CPL filters complement each other perfectly. You gain control over exposure time and light reflection – and bring depth and color directly into your RAW images. With the LC-PRO 100 filter system, you can easily combine both filter types – for impressive results.