IRIX Edge ND Filters Review

Features and Handling
Performance
Verdict

The IRIX Edge range of filters is designed specifically for the Irix 15mm wide-angle lens and is a range of circular 95mm screw-on filters. Here we're looking at the full range of ND filters, which includes the ND1000 (10 stops), ND128 (7 stops), ND32 (5 stops), and ND8 (3 stops).

Irix Edge ND Filters Features and Handling

We used the IRIX Edge filters with the Irix 15mm f/2.4 lens, with the 50mp Canon EOS 5DS R. The filters come in a protective case, with ample foam padding to protect the filter during transit.

They are designed to minimize vignetting when used with ultra-wide lenses. The filters feature a multi-layer nano coating, low-profile durable aluminium frame with knurled grips, and clear labelling on the side. The finish is matte to aid grip.

There is a screw thread on the front of the filter so that if you want, you can stack the filters, or use a circular polarising filter on top. They feature a double-sided waterproof and oil repellent coating so that there is protection from stains and fingerprints. There's an anti-reflective coating.

They are also available in 52, 55, 58, 62, 67, 72, 77, 82mm sizes, for use on other brand lenses.

The Irix 15mm lens hood features a filter window which will help access the circular polarizing filter so that you can turn it when needed.

Key Features

• Low-profile durable aluminium frame
• Multi-layer anti-reflective nanocoating 
• Double sized waterproof and oil repellent coating
• 3.5mm thick frame

Irix Edge ND Filters Performance

The performance section is where we look at the image quality of the product. Additional sample photos and product shots are available in the Equipment Database, where you can add your own review, photos and product ratings. Here's a quick "Behind the Scenes" look at where we were set up for shots of the waterfall in a local river:

Irix In River

IRIX ND Filter Results

No ND filter attached | 1/6 sec | f/8.0 | 15.0 mm | ISO 100

ND8 (+CIR-PL) | 1 sec | f/8.0 | 15.0 mm | ISO 100

ND32 (+CIR-PL) | 4 sec | f/8.0 | 15.0 mm | ISO 100

ND128 (+CIR-PL) | 20 sec | f/8.0 | 15.0 mm | ISO 100

ND1000 (+CIR-PL) | 30 sec | f/8.0 | 15.0 mm | ISO 200

We used manual focus for these shots, and with the ND1000 filter, auto-focus is unlikely to work at all due to how dark the image is getting to the camera. The Irix 15mm lens has a very useful lock ring so that you can lock the focus in position.

As expected, using an ND filter increases the length of time needed for a correct exposure, as light is blocked from reaching the camera sensor. This lets you create smoother water, and by using a circular polarizing filter on the front of the lens, you can reduce reflections and boost foliage in the shot. 

Colour is unaffected and sharpness remains very good, with no noticeable drop in detail. Vignetting was not noticeable, and there were no hot spots. We also didn't spot any issues with lens flare, although the position of the sun (and other bright lights) will affect this.

Value For Money

The Irix Edge ND8, ND32 filters are available for €115 each, ND128, and ND1000 filters are available for €117 each. This is quite good value for money, as most circular filters aren't available in this size. Another option would be the Cokin Nuances XL (Pro) ND1024 square filter, which is around £185. If you are using Irix lenses, then you could also look at the Irix Edge Gelatin Filter Set.

Irix Edge ND Filters Verdict

The Irix Edge range of ND filters performs extremely well, and as they are available as a 95mm filter, they fit perfectly with the Irix 15mm lens. The latest generation of ND filters gives no colour cast and excellent image quality. The ND filter is an essential tool for slow water photography, seascapes, waterfalls, rivers, plus they let you use bright apertures on sunny days. There's no reason why you shouldn't look to the Irix Edge filters for your Irix lens. 

The Irix Edge ND filters perform extremely well.

With thanks to CliftonCameras who provided the Canon EOS 5DS R used for testing.