Variable ND/CPL filter kit Freewell FW-L1-ALD 82mm

The Freewell Real Locking Variable ND/CPL All Day Kit is a filter system for photographers and filmmakers combining a variable neutral density (VND) with a circular polarizer (CPL) and an additional fixed ND32 element in a single 82 mm threaded solution. The kit uses a mechanical locking mechanism for quick, stable mounting and includes front and rear caps plus accessories that help set white balance and access product information on the go.

Advantages

The mechanical locking system secures the VND/CPL element so it does not rotate or detach during gimbal work or dynamic shooting. True Color grade optical glass preserves neutral colors and minimizes color cast even at strong light reduction. The included ND32 extends the light reduction range for long exposures, motion blur and cinematic shutter effects. Practical accessories — a front cap with NFC for instant access to manuals and videos, and a rear cap with an integrated grey card — simplify white balance and field workflow.

Suitable for

• Landscape photography in bright conditions
• Long-exposure and motion-blur photography
• Cinematography and gimbal-mounted video work
• Situations requiring polarization to reduce reflections and increase color saturation

Key specifications

• Filter type: Variable ND integrated with CPL plus separate ND32
• VND adjustment range: approximately 3 to 10 stops
• Thread size / compatibility: 82 mm threaded mount (uses included adapter ring)
• Optical material: True Color grade optical glass
• VND/CPL outside diameter: 111 mm; thickness: 14.42 mm; weight: 41.2 g
• ND32 outside diameter: 116.6 mm; thickness: 6.2 mm; weight: 33.9 g
• Front NFC cap outside diameter: 102.9 mm; thickness: 6.1 mm; weight: 25.9 g
• Rear white balance cap outside diameter: 89 mm; thickness: 2.5 mm; weight: 22.1 g
• Included adapter ring outer diameter: 89.3 mm; thickness: 4.8 mm; weight: 5.7 g

How to use

Mount the included 82 mm adapter ring to your lens (or attach directly if your lens has an 82 mm thread), then lock the VND/CPL unit onto the ring using the side latches until it clicks. Rotate the CPL element to adjust polarization and turn the VND control to set the desired light reduction between approximately 3 and 10 stops; add the ND32 element when greater light reduction is required for long exposures or cinematic effects. Use the rear cap’s integrated grey card to take a reference white balance reading on set. Remove the filter by pressing the side latches and lifting the unit off the ring.

Recommendations

When using strong VND settings with wide-angle lenses, watch for vignetting; if present, try the separate ND32 or use the adapter ring position that provides optimal clearance. For consistent color reproduction, perform white balance using the included grey card before critical shoots and avoid rotating the VND/CPL during exposure when capturing long-exposure frames.