Maybe knowing that would also help in knowing what kind of results to expect from the various ND filters. Well, just curious.

Similar behavior occurs when a light beam passes through any type of light diffusion fabric. The more obstructed the view through the diffusion material, the greater impact it has on the light's attempt to pass through it. In such cases, the diffusion material significantly influences the behavior and characteristics of the transmitted light.

With that said, can anyone answer this question? Do the lower .3-1.2 tiffen ND's not have the IR protection that the higher 1.5-2.1 ones do? If you look at the BH site it specifically mentions this feature for the higher ones, but not the lower. But when you buy them altogether in the kit the IR feature is listed as if they all have that feature. Does that make sense? Here are the links. See what I mean?

I ended up going with a Hoya UV IR cut filter and a plain Tiffen variable ND.  I will probably be adding a 10 stop Hoya ProND to the mix to use in bright daylight with a speedbooster.  I am not a pro but even with strong ND I'm not noticing significant IR pollution.  The separate UV IR cut filter is good to have if you start adding different ND filters to the mix.

Diffuse lightexample

I looked into this back in early 2014 and bought the Tiffen T1 and the Indie ND set, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9, 1.2. Last weekend I had a shoot during the day and found a shady tree I used the 1.2ND to bring it down to between f2-f4. This is on my BMCC, YI Optics speedbooster and Zeiss CF.2 28mm. So I forgot to put the T1 on :-/ I didn't notice the IR contamination on my flanders, everything looked great. Back home in Davinci I noticed the IR. We were also running around with a Pocket Camera, Olympus 12mm and a 1.2ND and there's IR on that footage.

Dave Dugdale didn't test the Light Craft Workshop 77mm Fader ND Digi Pro-HD Filter, so you're right.  I may beat out the Tiffen.  It really is odd to me Dave is the only person as far as I can tell that has done an indepth comparison of a lot of these filters.

I read about the IR contamination issue, but wasn't aware of it before. I checked my BMPCC shots and found the contamination in shots with strong ND and low light tungsten shots, where all colors were off and could not completely be restored in post. Bought the Tiffen IR-cut and leave it on always. It looks like a yellow color filter. It has the effect that most shots now have a greenish cast that can be easily fixed in post. I'd say that if you don't ever shoot in bright sunlight or extreme low light, you won't need an IR-filter. Also that a cheap IR is better than none if you do.

Really great thread. Thank you for asking these questions (great original post) and for those offering their knowledge and experience.

Diffuse lightphotography

Diffused light possesses a gentle quality, lacking the brightness and harshness found in direct light. It emerges as a result of scattering, originating from all possible angles. Consequently, it appears to envelop objects, creating a sense of wrapping around them. Unlike direct light, diffused light is milder and avoids casting harsh shadows.

Different diffusion techniques are employed in architectural lighting design to create visually pleasing and comfortable environments. Diffusing light sources can help eliminate glare, provide more uniform illumination, and reduce harsh contrasts.

Diffuse lightbulb

Diffuse lightCeiling

So there are numerous solutions.  One could say the near IR pollution thing is nonsense and just get a "straight" Tiffen variable ND.  Or you could go with a set of individual ND filters and skip the variable.  You could also get an IR cut filter and use either single NDs or variable ND.  Or you could get the Tiffen combined IRND variable filter.  Or you could get the single IR ND filter sets.  B&H has a strong three filter set for $164.50.  Okay, that is a lot of options.  The reason I posted is I want to know which one will give you the best results.  I know the variable NDs have the polarization "issue."  Sometimes I like using a polarizer on video so it isn't always an issue for me.  Also there is a hack where by you turn the whole filter assembly en bloc to reduce or get rid of the polarization effect.  I don't know how effective that is.

The tiffen filters are 77mm and on the pocket the T1 seems to handle the IR up to 1.2/1.5ND so those filters will be dedicated to the Pocket.

Light diffusion finds applications in various fields. Diffusion materials such as softboxes, diffusers, and reflectors are extensively used in photography and filmmaking to create soft and diffused lighting conditions. This helps to reduce harsh shadows, create a more even illumination, and achieve the desired aesthetic effect.

Diffused lighting interior design

Cool.  Good to know.  To be honest I may end up getting a variable ND to begin with and then some individual NDs if image quality is really that much better.  I am thinking with the rotation hack I may be able to avoid the flat waxy skin look.

Makes sense only if you have the IR-filter screwed on permanently and snap on the ND only when needed. I have also Tiffen ND fader. Less reflexes in backlight than one would expect (with Sigma 18-35).

So that is $427 worth of filters for a $495 camera... and that is before I get a $160+ set of individual IRND filters.  Expensive hobby.

So the choice was simply, right?  Wrong!  I then came across another video showing IR (near infrared) issues with the BMCC... and other cameras including Alexa products.

Yeah I've seen a bunch of solid endorsements of the Hoya IR/UV cut filter on the web.  I will probably get it at some stage.  I think I am going to give the Tiffen IRND variable filter a try and then build out a single ND filter set later.  I will use the single ND filters in combination with the Hoya IR/UV cut filter.  Apparently the Hoya ProND single filters have some IR reduction built in.  It's not advertised as such but people on the internet say it's there.  And they say in combination with the Hoya IR/UV cut filter they get good results.

I got in on this too.  I can't tell you in terms of the Pocket yet because I haven't received it, but on the 2.5k, I used a Fader Digi-Pro HD variable ND filter and a Hoya IR/UV cut in front of it with fantastic results and zero color cast.  All other Variable Fader ND's sucked to me.  The Heliopan was fine, but the Fader I had was better.  Sad thing is, they discontinued it.

Diffuse lightin computer graphics

another nice one is SLRMagic Vari ND tested by Brawley: https://vimeo.com/johnbrawley/review/106381581/6ae5f7095b also SLRMagic rumored to release soon a new version of their filter with better specs, additional ring and few different sizes.

A light diffuser is a partially transparent material placed between a light source and an object to disperse and scatter the light as it passes through the material. Rather than completely obstructing or reducing the light, the diffuser alters the path of the light, resulting in a spread of diffused light across the subject.

Whoa!  Didn't notice that.  That seems fishy.  I think I am going to start off with the Tiffen variable IRND filter.  But I am leaning towards getting some Hoya ProND single filters as time goes on and money becomes available.  Like I said this thread was interesting.

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account. Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Light diffusion is the scattering and spreading of light in various directions when it encounters an uneven or rough surface or passes through a translucent medium. Light scattering occurs through reflection or transmission processes. When light encounters an uneven surface, like a frosted window or the coating on a light bulb, it undergoes diffuse reflection. This type of reflection leads to the scattering of light in various directions.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/77mm-TIFFEN-Filter-Kit-ND-NEUTRAL-DENSITY-0-6-0-9-1-2-ND4-ND8-ND16-Made-in-USA-/131041287739?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e82ab5e3b

BMCC: T1+ each ND individually; 0.3, 0.6, 0.9 all great, T1 + 1.2ND still ok, T1 + 1.5ND still ok, T1 + 2.1ND IR is back a little, T1+2.7ND IR is there.

In the end I think I will have everything.  I will get the variable IRND filter first.  Then the Hot Mirror IR filter when I have the cash and finally some single Water White IRND filters for when I have more time or need stronger filtration.

Light diffusers are installed in windows, skylights, and light fixtures in buildings to distribute natural or artificial light evenly, minimize glare, and enhance the overall quality of lighting indoors.

I really wish someone would have tested all this out the way Dave Dugdale did.  With the flood of bmpccs entering the ecosystem it really would be invaluable.

After much research I'm going to try the Skier 4 x 565 Hot Mirror 1.2 ND on BMCC and add extra ND if needed on the lens until I can afford more 4x565's.

Looks like currently the best fixed NDs are Hoya PROND tested by CaptainHook http://www.bmcuser.com/showthread.php?6403-New-Hoya-ProNDs-Rolling-Report-Thread&p=97497&viewfull=1#post97497

I've heard that the Genus Eclipse is fantastic on the pocket though.  This is just in terms of "variable" ND..  If you are patient enough for single ND's, the Tiffens with Water White Schott glass are stellar.

I got in on the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera (bmpcc) fire sale and in preperation for receiving my new camera I have been researching neutral density filters.  What I would like to know is what are people's preferences between single ND filters and variable ND filters.  And also your thoughts on IR filtration for the bmpcc.

The BMCC has a Mat Box so I'll be buying an IRND solution for that, can't keep swapping those 77mm all day and ignoring the mat box.

I read about the IR contamination issue, but wasn't aware of it before. I checked my BMPCC shots and found the contamination in shots with strong ND and low light tungsten shots, where all colors were off and could not completely be restored in post. Bought the Tiffen IR-cut and leave it on always. It looks like a yellow color filter. It has the effect that most shots now have a greenish cast that can be easily fixed in post. I'd say that if you don't ever shoot in bright sunlight or extreme low light, you won't need an IR-filter. Also that a cheap IR is better than none if you do.

Light diffusion is used in the design of displays, such as LCD screens and LED panels, to enhance viewing angles, improve color uniformity, and minimize the visibility of individual pixels.

I then came across another video showing IR (near infrared) issues with the BMCC... and other cameras including Alexa products.

Diffuse lightvs directlight

Diffusion films or coatings are used in product design and packaging to create a softer appearance and reduce glare on surfaces such as electronic displays, indicator lights, and packaging materials.

I have to revise my previous statement.  While I am still interested in the Tiffen variable IR ND filter I think I will pick up some Hoya PROND Cine-ND Filters when I opt for some single filters.  There is a thread on bmcuser regarding ND filters and the people on there are raving about the Hoya PROND filters.  They are using them in conjuction with a Hoya IR cut filter.  Unfortunately the Tiffen variable IR ND filter is too new and they are too obsessed with the Hoya product to have actually done some head to head tests.

Unfortunately I am a hobbyist so I am guilty of shooting a lot with uncontrolled lighting so I am regularly dealing with bright sunlight and also poorly lit scenarios.  I am definitely committed to spending a few hundred dollars for proper filtration.  I don't want to go through the trouble of learning how to use the bmpcc and resolve and still end up with an uncorrectable color cast.

Cool.  Thanks for updating with your experience.  I really can't believe in all the bmpcc reviews I've watched no one picked up on the IR issue. Really, from now on this should be something that is tested for with all similar cameras.

Tiffen recomend for the BMPCC -  The TIFFEN Hot Mirror Infra-Red Neutral Density Combination Filter (or stacking a TIFFEN Hot Mirror and a TIFFEN IRND Filter).

Diffuse lightlamp

As light travels through the air, it encounters numerous particles dispersed along its path. Each individual particle present in the air interacts with the light, causing it to change direction and behavior. Consequently, the photons comprising the light scatter and lose some of their energy compared to their undisturbed path. This scattering effect leads to a decrease in the intensity of the light source, as each photon becomes less efficient in conveying information about the subject to the camera. If the air contains fog or haze, this phenomenon becomes even more impactful.

I'm surprised more people on this forum didn't come out with more experiences and opinions regarding this IR issue.  Are people not experiencing it or just correcing it in post?

These techniques are employed in outdoor lighting fixtures, such as streetlights and landscape lighting, to minimize harsh shadows, improve visibility, and create a more pleasing aesthetic.

In medical and therapeutic applications, diffused light is utilized for treatments like phototherapy and light box therapy. This helps to evenly distribute the therapeutic light, ensuring a more effective and comfortable experience for patients.

I already know if you go the "straight" variable ND route Tiffen seems to be a good trade off as far as quality and price.  Dave Dugdale did an incredible review of "straight" variable ND filters.  Honestly it is amazing it took an amateur like Dave to do such a test.  I see so many posts on the internet from people who could have either saved themselves money or used a higher quality product had someone simply done what Dave did and test them out.  These people are pros mind you!

I use this MARUMI UV-IR CUT Filter $50 on my BMPCC and this set of 3 Tiffen ND Filters $100. Works 100% no casts and no distortions!

Thanks for that info.  It looks like I am going to get some kind of Tiffen IRND filter to start and then stack the hot mirror later.

Maybe slightly off-topic, but for starters, I think it would be interesting to know (meaning I don't know it yet) what is the internal sensor stack inside the BMPCC to begin with. As we know, standard mFT sensors have a thick stack of glass in the front of the sensor, including an IR filter (glass does that, too), but the BMPCC is not exactly a standard mFT camera, it only happen to have a mFT mount. Given the fact that it has no AA filter, I wonder how thick an IR filter does it have internally, if at all? Does anyone happen to know?

Tiffen recomend for the BMPCC -  The TIFFEN Hot Mirror Infra-Red Neutral Density Combination Filter (or stacking a TIFFEN Hot Mirror and a TIFFEN IRND Filter).

On the other hand, diffused light photography involves using a diffuser to achieve a broader distribution of light. Images captured with a diffuser exhibit softer shadows and more evenly dispersed illumination across the scene. The diffuser helps create a wider beam angle, resulting in a more gentle and diffused lighting effect.

Conversely, rough surfaces exhibit minute irregularities that contribute to their overall roughness. However, these irregularities do not violate the law of reflection. Each light ray still reflects at the same angle as it strikes the object but in a different direction. This process gives rise to scattered light, commonly referred to as diffuse light. The scattering of light is responsible for the diffusion and gentle nature of the light beam.

When a beam of light hits on a smooth surface, the majority of it bounces back in a concentrated manner. This phenomenon is known as specular reflection, resulting in direct and luminous light. A mirror is an example of a smooth surface that exhibits specular reflection.

Direct light is achieved when there are no materials or obstacles between the light source and the subject. Photons emitted from the source directly reach the subject without being redirected or obstructed. This type of lighting produces harsh illumination, sharper shadows, and higher contrast in the resulting image.