Overview
The Hollywood Black Magic® range of filters is designed for a pleasant, filmic look. An array of Micro-Lenslets™ combined with carbon particles produces a consistent, smooth glow in the highlights, while maintaining rich blacks and colors. It also provides a controlled soft overlay on a sharp, in-focus image.
Filter Effects:
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Reduces Highlights and Lowers Contrast.
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Softens Wrinkles and Blemishes.
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Creates a Soft Quality of Light.
Table of Contents
Key Information
Reading the Levels
This kit is for a 4 x 5.65" Matte Box Tray. The filtration increases in intensity from 1/8 (the weakest) to 2 (the strongest). The image you create with a 1/8 vs 2 is drastically different, but neither is better nor worse than the other. (Remember, it all comes down to what you feel the story calls for.)
Filtration Comparison
| Filter Type | Effect | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Hollywood Black Magic® 1/8 | Subtle diffusion, smooth glow in highlights | Minimal softening effect |
| Hollywood Black Magic® 1/4 | Moderate diffusion, slight glow in highlights | Balanced softening for portraits |
| Hollywood Black Magic® 1 | Noticeable diffusion, glow effect on highlights | Dreamy or nostalgic looks |
| Hollywood Black Magic® 2 | Strong diffusion, heavy highlight bloom | Highly stylized, dreamlike imagery |
Set Up Guide
Before removing the filter from the case, have the matte box tray ready on a large flat surface. This will prevent you from placing the filter down on a rough surface and damaging it by dropping it.
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Once the tray is ready, pull the filter out from the edges. Try whenever possible to only grab the thin edge of the filter to avoid fingerprints.
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Place the filter into the tray with the words facing out (Remember! Brands want their logos visible in set pictures).
Compatible Accessories
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Basic Cinema Accessory Kit
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Alexa 35 Cinema Accessory Kit
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Film II ARRI Matte Box Kits
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Universal Matte Box
Tips & Tricks
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- Test Before Shooting: Each density has a unique impact, so testing with your specific camera setup ensures the best results.
- Avoid fingerprints: on the glass by hold edges when ever possible!
- If it is not very dirty, don't wipe it. The glass has a coating that degrades over time, and excessive cleanings will speed this process up.
- Consider Sensor Sensitivity: Higher-resolution cameras may reveal more subtle diffusion effects, requiring lower densities for a natural appearance.
- Combine with Other Filters: Can be used alongside ND filters, polarizers, or color filters for more customized looks.