Hoya Sq100 Silver Soft 1/4
The Hoya Sq100 Silver Soft 1/4 filter is an effect filter that softens subjects in images whilst simultaneously enhancing cool colour tones. This creates a more cool, cinematic look that makes the filter perfect for both photo and videography. The Sq100 Silver Soft is available in two strengths – 1/4 and 1/8 – giving the artist complete freedom to choose the desired intensity for each individual situation.
Create a cool atmosphere by enhancing blue tones
The Hoya Sq100 Silver Soft gently softens subjects in an image, taking away a little of their sharpness, whilst subtly enhancing light sources. The filter's unique characteristic is that it also emphasises cool colour tones in the image, particularly those of light sources. This creates a distinctly cool atmosphere that can be described as steely, chromatic, or futuristic, making the filter an excellent choice for contemporary work and science fiction, as well as nocturnal landscapes featuring artificial light sources. Note that the filter does not add a colour cast, meaning that if a scene contains no bluish light sources, the filter will have no effect on the colours.
In portrait photography, Silver Soft smooths skin texture whilst simultaneously emphasising cool colour tones. This can be used, for example, to make people appear "colder" or more serious, or simply to maintain a more neutral skin tone in certain environments.
Choose between 1/4 and 1/8 for the optimum strength
The Sq100 Silver Soft is available in 1/4 and 1/8, with the 1/4 offering the generally stronger softening effect. In situations with strong light sources close to the camera or intense backlight, the 1/8 is usually preferable to avoid an overpowering effect. In low-light situations, night landscapes with distant light sources, or scenes with little backlight, the 1/8 may prove too subtle, making the 1/4 the preferred choice for a more clearly visible effect.
