why not more built in nd filters?

[back alley]

with the tech avalable today i wonder why more high end cameras don't have built in nd filters...

 

[Roger Hicks]

Because, surely, a true ND filter is still a bulky lump of expensive glass that few people will want. Yes, you can do electronic "pulls" but my understanding is that these reduce dynamic range. Of course it may well be that I have misunderstood either your question, or what can be done.

Cheers,

R.

 

[YYV_146]

For an interchangeable lens camera a built in ND filter is a bulky thing that must cover the entire sensor area. For a leaf shutter camera such as the X100, the filter can be made as small as the smallest part of the optical path, making a design much more likely.

Considering how packed digital cameras are, there really is no room for an extra, sensor-sized piece of glass 😀 Better to stick with the screw-ons and adapter rings.

 

[thegman]

I suppose most people will just use a high shutter speed. Those who simply must shoot wide open, requiring a higher shutter speed than their camera will provide are probably thinner on the ground than sites like RFF would have us believe.

But I imagine the main issue is cost, adding a feature via software is likely preferable to actual mechanics moving a piece of glass in and out of the way of the lens.

 

[jarski]

I suppose most people will just use a high shutter speed. ...

that would be my guess too. I had had Canon G1x that has this, rarely used it and often forgot its even there. liked the idea though, instead of front filter 😛

 

[Spanik]

Can't say I ever felt the need to use one. More the contrary, I never seem to have enough light to get a decent shutter speed.

 

[FrozenInTime]

Using a ND is often preferable to stopping down on small sensor cameras, as diffraction kicks in sooner.

 

[marcr1230]

I absolutely love the built in ND on the x100 series - it's such a useful and well thought out feature. I have it mapped to a function button so I can add/remove it without taking my eye off the viewfinder

 

[kzphoto]

More opportunity for dust to collect on a sensor or the ND filter. Moving parts inside a fixed lens camera can cause dust particles to become lodged in or near the sensor.

Cleaning fixed lens cameras is a total pain.