Two-minute video demonstrates how a Graduated ND Filter balances the light

From his vast outdoor studio not far from Alberta, Canadian photographer and author Darwin Wiggett sends this unedited video showing how easy it is to balance the dynamic range between the sky and the foreground of this outdoor scene simply by using a Singh-Ray 2-stop hard-step Graduated ND Filter.

"I shot the video using a Canon Rebel T2i and a Tamron 17-50 f2.8 lens. I shot the scene at 17mm. A Cokin P-Series filter holder was mounted on the lens to hold the ND Grad. I used an Azden ECZ-990 microphone mounted on the Rebel's hot shoe to pick up my sexy voice. The video was just shot off the cuff because the light and opportunity were perfect to show the benefits of using an ND Grad filter.

"As we can see by comparing the final 'with-filter' and 'without-filter' photos, using the Graduated ND Filter really improved the photo without having to do any post-production."

It seems safe to say, we'll soon be seeing more video demonstrations from Darwin in the near future. He shows real talent.

With Graduated ND Filter

Without Filter


Darwin is one of Canada's most published landscape, nature and travel photographers with 11 books published including Dances with Light - The Canadian Rockies and How to Photograph the Canadian Rockies. Darwin is also a contributor to photo magazines including Outdoor Photography Canada, Popular Photography, Outdoor Photographer and more. For more information on Darwin's adventures and workshops, visit his website and blog.