How do you stack ND filters without losing image quality or introducing unwanted effects?

4 Check your focus and histogram

Stacking ND filters can also affect your focus and exposure. Since ND filters make your viewfinder darker, it can be harder to focus manually or use autofocus. To avoid blurry images, you should focus before attaching your filters and use a tripod to keep your camera steady. You can also use live view or a remote shutter release to avoid camera shake. Additionally, you should check your histogram to make sure your exposure is balanced and not too dark or too bright. You can use exposure compensation or bracketing to fine-tune your exposure if needed.

5 Experiment with different effects

Stacking ND filters can also open up creative possibilities for your photography. You may wish to experiment with different effects, such as long exposures, smooth water, motion blur, starbursts or light trails. You can also combine ND filters with other types of filters, such as polarizers, graduated ND filters or color filters, to enhance your images. However, make sure to always be mindful of the potential drawbacks of stacking filters and adjust your settings and technique accordingly.

6 Edit your images carefully

Finally, stacking ND filters can also require some post-processing to correct or improve your images. You may need to adjust the white balance, contrast, saturation, sharpness or noise of your images to remove any color casts, loss of detail or grain caused by the filters. You can also use editing software to fix any vignetting, uneven exposure or unwanted elements in your images. However, you should avoid over-editing your images or applying too many filters or presets, as this can make your images look unnatural or unrealistic.