Perfection in every frame. A guide to the Irix Edge 100 mm square filter system

If you are serious about landscape photography, architecture, or creating cinematic-looking video footage, you know very well that physical optics cannot be fully replaced by digital post-processing. Although modern sensors offer an impressive dynamic range, it is physical neutral density and graduated filters that give you full control over light at the exact moment you press the shutter button. The Irix Edge 100 mm square filter system is a solution designed by photographers for photographers, combining precision craftsmanship, excellent optical performance, and exceptional durability in demanding outdoor conditions.

Technology Without Compromise – Why Choose Irix Edge?

The advanced quality of this system is based on specific, uncompromising optical and construction solutions. The filters are made in the universal 100 mm width and 2 mm thickness standard, making them fully compatible with both the dedicated Irix Edge IFH-100 holder and most popular 100 mm filter holders available on the market.

Here are the key features that make Irix Edge filters stand out:

• Crystal-clear optical quality and color neutrality: They are made from premium-grade optical glass with light transmission of up to 99.6%, ensuring full sharpness, micro-contrast, and detail regardless of the sensor resolution. The proprietary True Neutral Colors technology eliminates one of the biggest problems associated with inexpensive neutral density filters – unwanted magenta or greenish-blue color casts – preserving clean and natural color reproduction.
• NANO coatings and the Super Resistant (SR) series: Double-sided hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings protect the surface against water droplets, grease, and dust, making cleaning in the field exceptionally easy. The range is complemented by the Super Resistant (SR) series, made from hardened optical glass and designed for exceptional resistance to impacts and mechanical damage in demanding outdoor environments.

Full Neutral Density Filters (Irix Edge 100mm Full ND) – Take Control of Time and Light

Full neutral density filters measuring 100x100 mm evenly reduce the amount of light entering the lens across the entire frame, making them an essential tool for creatively controlling shutter speed and aperture.

By using Full ND filters, you gain complete control over exposure in all conditions:

• Smooth motion effect: Extending the exposure time allows you to transform rough sea waves into silky mist or give fast-moving clouds a soft, dreamlike appearance.
• Removing tourists from the frame (ND32000): The extremely dense ND32000 filter, reducing light by as much as 15 EV stops, enables multi-minute exposures even in the middle of the day. As a result, people moving through the frame become blurred and effectively disappear from photographs of landmarks and tourist attractions.
• Shallow depth of field and cinematic video: The filters allow you to open the aperture to f/1.4 or f/1.8 in full sunlight without the risk of overexposure, creating beautiful, soft bokeh. In video production, they also make it possible to maintain smooth, natural-looking motion and achieve a cinematic look by following the 180° shutter rule, for example 1/50 s at 25 FPS.

Available densities in the Irix Edge system:

• ND8 (0.9) – 3 EV stops of light reduction
• ND32 (1.5) – 5 EV stops of light reduction
• ND128 (2.1) – 7 EV stops of light reduction
• ND256 (2.4) – 8 EV stops of light reduction
• ND1000 (3.0) – 10 EV stops of light reduction
• ND32000 (4.5) – 15 EV stops of light reduction

Graduated Filters (GND 100x150 mm) – Perfect Dynamic Range Control

In landscape photography, the sky is almost always significantly brighter than the foreground. Irix Edge GND graduated filters measuring 100x150 mm are designed to precisely balance the tonal range of a scene. Their elongated shape allows the filter to be freely moved up and down in the holder, making it possible to position the transition line exactly where it is needed to match the terrain.

Depending on the conditions in the field, you can choose from three types of graduated filters:

• Soft Gradual: These filters feature a wide, smooth tonal transition covering approximately one-third of the filter's height. They are an ideal choice for scenes with an irregular horizon line – in mountains, forests, cities, or architectural photography – where a soft transition helps prevent unnatural darkening of objects extending above the horizon. Available densities: GND4 (2 EV), GND8 (3 EV), GND16 (4 EV), GND32 (5 EV).
• Hard Gradual: These filters are distinguished by a narrow, clearly defined tonal transition between the darkened and transparent areas. They are designed for scenes with a perfectly straight horizon, such as seascapes, ocean views, or open, flat plains. Available densities: GND4 (2 EV), GND8 (3 EV).
• Reverse Gradual: The darkest part of the filter is located directly in the center, along the horizon line, and gradually becomes lighter toward the upper edge while leaving the lower part completely transparent. This makes it an essential tool for photographing spectacular sunrises and sunsets when the sun is positioned low above the horizon. Available densities (SR Series): ND4 (2 EV), ND8 (3 EV), ND16 (4 EV).

Comfort and Protection While Traveling

The entire system is complemented by well-designed protection for transporting your equipment. Classic versions are supplied in a rigid case with foam padding, a silicone frame, and a magnetic closure that prevents the filter from accidentally sliding out. The Super Resistant (SR) series, on the other hand, comes with a reinforced fabric case featuring a special pull tab for quick and convenient filter removal, as well as a durable hook-and-loop closure.

Choose Quality That Takes Your Photography to the Next Level

The Irix Edge 100 mm square filter system is a complete range of optical tools for every demanding photographer and filmmaker. It is also worth mentioning accessories such as the IFH-100 PRO holder with a built-in polarizing filter and universal adapter rings. By combining uncompromising color neutrality, durable construction, and precise control over light, Irix Edge filters provide complete creative freedom and dependable performance, allowing you to take the quality of your images to an entirely new level.

VIEW OUR SQUARE FILTER RANGE