I had the opportunity to test the V6 filter holder system from NiSi as well as three filters. I chose the NiSi GND16 Soft (1.2) 4 Stops and GND16 Medium (1.2) 4 Stops filters. The Landscape polarizing filter integrated in the V6 system was also part of the test. Due to the limited travel possibilities during the Corona period, I tested all products in the Odenwald, Bergstrasse and Rhine-Main area. The package from NiSi Germany & Austria arrived within two days. Even the packaging appeared to be of high quality and robust to provide optimum protection for the filter and holder. The boxes were sturdy and decorated with attractive landscape images.

GND16 Soft (1.2) 4 Stops

About the filter holder:

The filter holder consists of a main adapter ring and the holder itself. The ring is first attached to the lens. The CPL filter can be screwed into the round socket of the adapter ring and adjusted using two small wheels. After a little practice, the adjustment is very quick and easy. The filter holder is then attached and secured with a small pin. The holder can be fixed in place with a locking screw to prevent it from turning. The filter holder offers space for up to three inserts, so that a maximum of four filters (including CPL) can be combined. The set includes adapter rings in the sizes 67 mm, 72 mm and 77 mm, which are compatible with my standard lenses.

Compared to the previous version V5, I noticed some improvements. The beveled corners make it easier to remove the filters, and the reduced weight of the holder (approx. 25 g lighter) is an advantage on long photo tours. Nevertheless, the holder remains stable and robust. The locking screw prevents unintentional twisting..

The set includes a soft case bag that safely stores the filter holder, CPL filters and adapter rings. Compared to the hard case of the V5 version, this bag saves space and is more practical when traveling. An additional lid protects the polarizing filter from dirt and scratches - particularly useful in the forest or in the rain. A small manual explains how to use the filter holder step by step.

Landscape CPL Filter:

The Landscape CPL filter impressed with its performance. It reduces reflections on surfaces such as leaves and increases color saturation. Forest shots in particular showed how the colors appear more intense and vivid. The green and red tones of the autumn leaves stood out clearly and the gray tones were more differentiated.

GND-Filter:
Graduated gray filters (GND) are ideal for balancing out contrasts in landscape shots - such as sunrises and sunsets. While the lower half of the filter remains neutral, the upper half darkens the sky. The filters are supplied securely packed in tissue paper and a soft plastic film. A sturdy leatherette case provides protection during transportation.

The nano-coating on the filters makes it easy to remove water and dirt. Drops can simply be wiped off without leaving any residue.

NiSi GND16 Medium (1.2) 4 Stops:

The GND16 Medium (1.2) 4 Stops filter was convincing in my tests. It darkens the sky and emphasizes details in the foreground. Cloud structures were emphasized and the image came out of the camera well exposed, which minimized post-processing. The filter proved helpful in situations with strong light contrasts. If the sky appears too dark, it can be corrected in post-processing or a weaker filter can be used. The GND16 Medium (1.2) 4 Stops filter offers a reliable solution, especially in extreme lighting situations where the camera has difficulty capturing all brightness ranges. This often eliminates the need for elaborate HDR shots or depth processing.

During my tours, I used this filter more and more often as it proved its worth in a wide variety of situations. It ensures balanced exposures and quickly became my preferred filter for landscape shots. The ease of use and the immediately visible improvements in image quality made it an indispensable part of my equipment.

NiSi GND16 Soft (1.2) 4 Stops:

Compared to the medium filter, the soft filter is characterized by a softer transition and is versatile. Especially in hilly landscapes, such as those found in the Odenwald and other low and high mountain ranges, the soft filter proves to be an excellent choice. My previous soft filter with 3 stops was not strong enough in certain situations, which is why I opted for an aperture of 4 stops.

During my tests, I found that the filter provided a balanced exposure. The sky was darkened, while the darker foreground was brightened. Hardly any corrections were necessary in post-processing. Especially with strong backlighting, such as sunrises or sunsets, the combination with a reverse filter, which can also be inserted into the filter holder, is recommended. Thanks to the insertion system, the filters can be flexibly adjusted. Orientation to the horizon or the light source makes adjustment easier. In some cases, I used both the soft and medium filters at the same time to compensate for strong brightness contrasts.

The tested filters did not show any color shifts or impairments in image sharpness. Color corrections in post-processing are not necessary.

Conclusion:

The V6 filter holder impresses with its sophisticated design and ease of use. The filters I tested meet all the requirements I place on professional filters for landscape photography. I was impressed by the quality, workmanship and performance. I can recommend both the holder and the filters without reservation.

However, I do see room for improvement in the design of the leather case for the GND filters. To remove the filters, it is currently necessary to grip them by the surface. Alternatively, the case could be designed in such a way that it stands upright and has a small recess at the top edge. This would allow the filters to be pulled out from the sides without touching the glass surfaces. If you need to transport several filters safely together, the NiSi store offers compact filter bags that are ideal for this purpose.