Filters as a Creative Tool – Robert Pilari
In my landscape photography, filters aren’t just technical accessories – they’re essential creative tools. When I’m out in the field, I rely heavily on Soft GND filters to manage dynamic range and full ND filters to control time and movement. Over the years, these tools have helped me create the kind of atmospheric and balanced images I strive for.
When I Use Which Filter – My Approach
I reach for Soft GND filters when the sky is significantly brighter than the foreground – typically during sunrise or sunset. Since most horizons in nature are uneven (mountains, rocks coastlines), I prefer soft-edge grads to avoid harsh transitions that cut through subjects unnaturally.
Here’s how I typically use them:
- Soft GND 8 is my go-to for sunrise and sunset.
- Soft GND 16 comes into play when the contrast is higher, like during golden hour.
- Soft GND 32 I use in brighter daylight, when I still want to tame the highlights.
For long exposures and movement, I turn to full ND filters. These allow me to work creatively with time - smoothing out water, showing cloud motion, or creating a sense of calm or drama depending on the scene.
- An ND 8 gives a subtle sense of motion. Perfect for exposure times around 1/5 of a second to keep for example texture in a waterfall or river.
- The ND 1000 is perfect for longer exposures at day time - whether I’m working with waterfalls, seascapes, or want to bring movement in the clouds.
My Workflow on Location
Before I ever touch a filter, I start by scouting the area and visualizing the final image. I ask myself: Where is the light coming from? What kind of look do I want to achieve? How is the dynamic range? Do I want movement, or stillness?
Once I’ve composed the image, I decide whether a filter is necessary. If the sky is much brighter than the foreground, I’ll reach for a GND. If I want to extend the exposure for motion effects, I’ll add a full ND. Often, I combine both - a GND to balance the sky and an ND to create the atmosphere I’m after. This way of working helps me stay intentional. I don’t just react to the scene - I try shape it.
My Gear Setup: Irix IFH-100 Pro System
I use the Irix IFH-100 Pro square filter holder with a circular polarizer built in. My filter lineup includes:
- Soft GND 8, 16, and 32
- Full ND 8 and ND 1000
The IFH-100 Pro is fast to set up, even in cold conditions. I especially appreciate that the adapter rings don’t require threading – no fiddling around, no stress. The filters themselves are robust and come in solid, protective cases that I can throw in my backpack without worry.
Combining Filters for Flexibility
One of the things I really value about this system is the ability to combine filters (Pol-Filter plus two additional filter slots). Using a Soft GND together with a full ND gives me the flexibility to handle any light s ituation and realize my creative vision without compromise.
For example, in a high-contrast seascape at golden hour, I might stack a Soft GND 16 to control the sky and an ND 1000 to turn waves into silky textures. It’s a powerful combination.
Practical Examples from the Field
Golden Hour Seascape (Soft GND16)
In this scenario, I increased my exposure time to 1 second to smooth out the water. The exposure time was too long for the sky, so the sky was overexposed. I used a soft GND 16 filter to balance the exposure and also not to cut off the rock with a hard transition.
Long Exposure at Sunset (FUll ND 1000)
Here I wanted to show the contrast between the static rocks and the moving water. So I chose the Full ND 1000 filter, which gives a long exposure time. 10 min in this case. The result in my option is a surreal, dreamy image showing the movment in the water, the movement of the clouds and the static rocks. An interesting combination - possible with the ND 100 filter.
Combination of Full ND and Soft GND filters
This image was captured using a combination of an Irix Full ND8 filter and a Soft GND16 filter.
The Full ND8 reduces the amount of light entering the lens by 3 stops, allowing for a longer exposure time to create smooth, flowing motion blur in the water. The Soft GND16 is a graduated neutral density filter with a 4-stop reduction at the top, gradually fading to clear. It helps to balance the exposure between the bright sky and the darker foreground, preserving detail in both areas.
Why I Chose Irix Filters
I’ve used many filter brands over the years, but Irix won me over with a mix of build quality, ease of use, and reliability. The filters are color neutral – I never worry about unwanted color casts. The setup is fast and intuitive, and even in tough weather, I can operate everything with confidence.
Plus, the transport cases are rock solid. When you're working in nature, you need gear you can depend on. Irix delivers that.
Tips for Beginners Using Square Filters
If you’re just getting started, here are a few things I’ve learned over time:
- Start with a Soft GND 16 and an ND 1000 – that’s a powerful duo for most light situations.
- Learn to read the light. Don’t just use filters by default. Ask what your scene needs.
- Practice at home - get comfortable with your equipment to not miss the moment in the field.
- Invest in a good tripod. Long exposures are only as good as your stability.
- Don’t fear mistakes. Each image teaches you something - and filters give you more tools to shape your vision.
Final Thoughts
Filters allow me to control light, time, and mood in a way nothing else can. Whether I’m balancing exposure at sunrise or stretching time on a cloudy day, the Irix square filter system gives me the flexibility I need in the field – without slowing me down.
If you want to get more intentional with your landscape photography, filters are a great place to start. And if you’re looking for a system that’s reliable, intuitive, and built for real-world conditions, I can wholeheartedly recommend the Irix IFH Pro.