Lee Filters LEE85 Big Stopper
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Product Information
Full details
The Lee Filters LEE85 Big Stopper is designed for photographers seeking to create unique, artistic long-exposure images. Its primary benefit is the ability to dramatically reduce light entering the lens by up to 10 stops, enabling blurred motion effects on water, traffic, and people. A key consideration is the potential for color cast, which may require post-processing adjustments.
All features
| Brand | Lee |
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Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the LEE85 Big Stopper used for?
It's used to significantly reduce the amount of light entering your lens, allowing for much longer exposure times to create effects like blurred water or traffic trails, even in bright daylight.
How many stops of light does the LEE85 Big Stopper block?
It blocks up to 10 stops of light.
Does this filter work with any lens?
The filter itself requires the LEE85 filter holder system, which then attaches to lenses via specific adapter rings. Compatibility depends on having the correct adapter ring for your lens diameter and the LEE85 holder.
Will I need to adjust my camera settings?
Yes, you will need to set your camera to manual mode and use a much slower shutter speed. You'll likely need to adjust your ISO and aperture as well. For very long exposures, manual calculation or a dedicated app might be necessary.
How do I clean the filter?
Use a clean microfiber lens cloth. For tougher smudges, use a lens cleaning solution applied to the cloth, not directly onto the glass. Avoid touching the glass surface.
Can I stack this filter with other filters?
While technically possible with some systems, stacking filters, especially an extreme ND filter like the Big Stopper, can lead to vignetting, color casts, and reduced image quality. It's generally recommended to use it as a single filter unless absolutely necessary and you understand the potential compromises.
What is the main creative benefit of using this filter?
The primary creative benefit is the ability to manipulate the perception of time and motion in your photographs by blurring movement, which is otherwise impossible with standard exposure times during daylight.
Troubleshooting
Image has a strong color cast (e.g., green or magenta)
This is common with extreme ND filters. Adjust the white balance or color channels in post-processing software to correct the cast. Many raw converters have profiles for specific filters.
Filter is difficult to insert or remove
Ensure the filter holder is clean and free of debris. Make sure the filter is aligned correctly with the slots in the holder. Avoid forcing the filter.
Difficulty achieving correct exposure
Use your camera's meter in manual mode, or use an external light meter. For very long exposures (over 30 seconds), you may need to account for reciprocity failure, which requires adding exposure time beyond what the meter suggests. Consult your camera or filter manufacturer's guidelines for reciprocity charts.
Noticeable vignetting or light leaks
Ensure the filter and holder are fully seated and light-tight. Check for any gaps around the filter or holder assembly. Sometimes, small amounts of light can creep in, especially with very long exposures.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Enables creative long exposure photography in daylight.
- High-quality optical glass ensures excellent image clarity.
- Transforms moving elements into artistic blurs.
- Durable construction with practical handling features.
- Comes with a protective storage tin.
Cons
- May introduce a color cast requiring post-processing.
- Requires a compatible filter holder system (LEE85).
- Can be challenging to compose accurately in very bright light.
- Best results often need manual exposure calculation.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup: The LEE85 Big Stopper is designed to be used with the LEE85 filter holder system. Ensure the holder is securely attached to your lens before inserting the Big Stopper. The filter slides into the holder slots; use the thumb guides for precise alignment.
Compatibility: This filter is specifically for the LEE85 filter holder. It is not directly compatible with other filter sizes or systems without the appropriate holder.
Care: Clean the optical glass surface gently using a microfiber lens cloth. For stubborn smudges, a lens cleaning solution can be applied sparingly to the cloth, not directly to the glass. Avoid touching the glass with your fingers. Store the filter in its included tin when not in use to protect it from scratches and dust.