**Freewell Real Locking VND/CPL Mega Kit: In-Depth Review**
Filters are indispensable tools in photography and videography, enabling control over exposure and allowing for creative manipulation of shutter speed and aperture. The Freewell Real Locking VND/CPL Mega Kit is a versatile filter system centered around a variable ND/polarizer and an ND32 filter, accompanied by video haze filters. What sets this kit apart is its clip-based attachment system, which Freewell argues is more secure than magnetic alternatives, though it may lack some convenience.
**Kit Overview and Contents**
The Mega Kit, one of two available Real Locking VND/CPL kits (the other being the All Day kit), includes a base ring (available from 49mm to 82mm), an 82mm lens cap, a variable ND/polarizer filter, an ND32 filter, and two video haze filters (Glow Mist 1/4 and Snow Mist 1/4). The kit is stackable, allowing for the combination of multiple filters as needed.
**Filter Performance**
*Variable ND/Polarizer Filter*
The variable ND filter ranges from three to seven stops, providing ample control over exposure. When paired with the polarizing filter, it effectively reduces reflections and enhances color saturation. Adjusting the polarizing effect requires rotating the entire filter, while the variable ND strength is adjusted by moving a marker. Using both filters together offers up to seven stops of light reduction without introducing a color cast, making it an excellent choice for both photo and video applications.
*ND32 Filter*
The ND32 filter provides a five-stop light-reducing density, which can be combined with the variable ND for up to 12 stops of light blocking – equivalent to a Big Stopper but with better color rendition. When used alone, the ND32 filter may introduce a slight red color cast, but this is minimal and easily removable in post-processing.
*Video Haze Filters*
The Glow Mist 1/4 and Snow Mist 1/4 filters add cinematic haze effects to your images and videos. The Glow Mist filter blooms highlights slightly and spreads haze into midtones, while the Snow Mist filter blooms highlights more and has less spread into midtones. Both filters can be used for various photographic and video applications.
**Image Quality and Build**
The filters in the Mega Kit are coated and deliver excellent image quality with accurate color rendition. The clip-based attachment system is secure, but users should ensure filters are properly attached to prevent accidental adjustment of the variable ND. The kit comes with a well-made, leatherette filters case with a magnetic clasp, though removing the middle and rear filters can be a tight fit when all filters are inserted.
**Pricing and Availability**
The Freewell Real Locking VND/CPL Mega Kit is available now at Amazon and the Freewell website. The All Day kit, which includes the VND3-7/CPL Base, an ND32, an 82mm Base Ring, an NFC Front Lens Cap, a White Balance Back Cap, a Filters Case, and a Cleaning Cloth, is priced at $250 in the US and £227.43 in the UK. The Mega Kit, which adds the Snow Mist 1/4 and Glow Mist 1/4 filters, is priced at $350. Pricing for both kits is in USD on the Freewell website, so international customers should check the exact cost in their own currency at the time of purchase.
**Should You Buy the Freewell Real Locking VND/CPL Mega Kit?**
The Freewell Real Locking VND/CPL Mega Kit is an excellent choice for photographers and videographers seeking a comprehensive, stackable filter solution that can be used with a wide range of lenses. Its clip-based attachment system offers improved security over magnetic alternatives, and the kit’s portability makes it an ideal choice for both photography and video capture. However, if you only need a variable ND filter or require ND graduated filters to control sky exposure, you may want to consider alternative options. Additionally, users should be aware that the kit’s price point may be a barrier for some, as it is similarly priced to magnetic filter kits.
In conclusion, the Freewell Real Locking VND/CPL Mega Kit offers a robust and versatile filter solution for photographers and videographers looking to control exposure and enhance their creative potential. Its secure clip-based attachment system, excellent image quality, and comprehensive range of filters make it a strong contender in the filter market.
