Unlike many photographic films, the CCD or CMOS of a digital camera is inherently susceptible to infrared contamination, even when the manufacturer attempts to reduce this problem by adding an infrared absorbing filter on top of  the image sensor. Because these filters do not have a sharp cut off at the infrared wavelengths there has to be a compromise in order not to exclude visible red wavelengths. This results in some infrared wavelengths being allowed to pass. While minor infrared contamination does not normally cause much of a problem for visible images, when using conventional neutral density filters especially denser grades, this issue is multiplied by the filter factor.

Tiffen has now addressed this problem with the introduction of its exclusive line of IR ND and IR 85ND series filters. Using Tiffen’s exclusive ColorCore™ filter technology, Tiffen engineers have been able to eliminate Infrared bleed above 700nm. This is particularly important as it now allows for the use of the denser grades of Neutral Density filters needed for these light sensitive cameras while, at the same time, maintaining complete color balance.

Tiffens new IR ND filters are available in ND.3, ND.6, ND.9, ND1.2, ND1.5, ND1.8, and new ND2.1. The IR 85ND filters are available in 85ND.3, 85ND.6, 85ND.9 and 85ND1.2, rendering true color throughout the spectrum. 

The Tiffen IR ND series is produced using Water White glass. As with all Tiffen filters, IR ND filters are ground and polished to provide the greatest level of flatness and parallelism. This, together with their exclusive ColorCore™ technology, ensures the highest level of optical quality.