ND Filters Guide for DJI Neo 2 (2025)
Freewell Care
Welcome to this comprehensive guide on ND filters for the DJI Neo 2. If you're chasing that Hollywood-level motion blur in your drone videos, ND filters are your secret weapon. Drawing from expert insights and real-world testing, we'll break down everything—from basics to pro setups. Whether you're flying solo, with a controller, or in FPV mode, you'll learn how to elevate your footage without the hassle.
DJI Neo 2 Drone with a ND8 Filter on
What Are ND Filters for DJI Neo 2 and Why Use Them for Cinematic Shots?
ND filters act like sunglasses for your drone's camera. They cut down light entering the sensor without altering colors. The DJI Neo 2 has a fixed f/2.8 aperture, so bright conditions force fast shutter speeds. This kills motion blur, making footage look choppy.
ND Filter makes a difference in Light Control
You want max light for sharp stills, but video needs balance. Natural motion blur mimics real life—like a hand waving with a soft trail. Without it, clips feel unnatural. ND filters let you slow the shutter for that blur while keeping exposure right. They're essential for pro drone videography.
DJI Neo 2 Flies with a Freewell ND Filter on
Understanding Shutter Speed and 180° Rule for DJI Neo 2 Motion Blur
What is Shutter Speed?
Shutter speed controls how long the sensor captures light per frame. On the Neo 2, it's digital—no mechanical parts. Faster speeds (like 1/1000) mean less light and blur. Slower ones (1/60) brighten shots but add smooth motion.
180° shutter rule
The 180° shutter rule is key: Set shutter to double your frame rate. For 30fps, use 1/60. For 60fps, go 1/120. This delivers optimal blur for cinematic drone footage.
Faster Shutter Speed Vs Slower Shutter Speed
Without NDs in bright light, 1/60 overexposes. Pop on a filter, and it's fixed. Result? Natural, film-like motion.
Motion Blur Vs No Motion Blur
Best ND Filters for DJI Neo 2: Freewell Options and When to Use Each
Freewell's ND filters shine for the Neo 2. Their mega pack includes standards and specialties. Here is a quick filter chart.
| Filter Type | Strength/Effect | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard ND | ND8, ND16, ND32 | Everyday landscapes, walking shots (95% of use) |
| ND/PL | ND with polarization | Reflective surfaces like water or glass |
| CPL | Polarization only | Glare reduction without light cut |
| UV | Minimal light cut | Haze removal, lens protection |
| Glow Mist | Stylistic Diffusion | Bloom effects, misty aesthetics |
Freewell Mega Pack for DJI Neo 2
ND Filter: Standard ND filters are perfect for most shooting scenarios, helping you reduce exposure and achieve a smooth, cinematic look without changing your aperture or ISO.
Motion Blur introduced by ND Filter
ND/PL Filter: The ND/PL filter combines the benefits of a standard ND with polarization, which reduces reflections and glare. They're ideal for controlling light in bright conditions, allowing you to use wider apertures or slower shutter speeds.
With & Without ND/PL Filters
Right Alignment for best polarization
It’s especially useful for shooting in environments like pools or lakes, where glare can wash out your shot—just rotate to the "ND PL" mark for maximum effect.
CPL Filter: The Circular Polarizer (CPL) filter is all about pure polarization, helping you eliminate unwanted reflections and enhance color contrast. Unlike ND/PL, this filter only focuses on PL.
UV Filter: A UV filter provides straightforward protection for your lens without affecting image quality. It helps prevent UV light from causing a blueish haze in your photos, while also keeping dust and scratches off your lens.
UV Filter installed for lens & UV protection
Glow Mist Filter: The Glow Mist filter adds a soft, ethereal glow to your images, perfect for creating an artistic, dreamy look. It subtly diffuses highlights and adds a pleasing atmosphere to portraits or scenes with bright light sources.
Diffusion Glow Mist Effect
How to Attach ND Filters to DJI Neo 2: Step-by-Step Tips for Easy Setup
Attaching is simple with magnets.
Peel the sticker on Magnetic ring's rear side.
Align and press onto the lens.
Snap the filter on magnetically.
Rub lint on the ring's top to avoid gimbal stickiness. Regular NDs fit any way; PL needs straight alignment. Just pop off to remove the filter.
Using ND Filters with DJI Neo 2 in Standalone Mode: Simple Weather-Based Choices
No controller? No problem. Auto mode handles basics. Match filters to light:
ND Filter Cheat Sheet
- Sunrise/sunset: Skip ND—small sensor needs all light.
- Cloudy: ND8.
- Regular sunny: ND16.
- Harsh bright (e.g., snow): ND32.
This keeps ISO low, cuts noise. Footage gains subtle blur without tweaks.
Pro Camera Mode with ND Filters for DJI Neo 2 Controller Users: Lock in Cinematic Exposure
With RC-N2 or RC2 controller, switch to Pro mode. Lock shutter: 1/60 at 30fps, 1/120 at 60fps. Auto ISO, tweak EV for brightness. This keeps ISO under 400. Use EV lock (assign to button) to avoid jumps, keeps shots pro. NDs prevent overexposure. Result: Rich blurred footage that pops.
DJI Neo 2 Pro Camera Settings
FPV Flying with ND Filters on DJI Neo 2: Manual Settings for Epic Swoops
FPV demands full manual. Set 4K 60fps for smooth goggles feed. Shutter: 1/120. ISO: 100 for clean images.
DJI Neo 2 FPV Settings
Overexposed? Add ND till meter (M.M) hits 0.0 (slight underexpose is fine, you can fix it in post-production). Motion blur transforms low swoops into art. Filtered FPV looks pro as Motion Blur and FPV foes hand in hand.
ND filter helps to bring motion blur on FPV Mode
Why High-Quality ND Filters Matter for DJI Neo 2: Avoid Color Shifts and Boost Quality
Cheap filters tint footage. Premium glass like Freewell ensures neutral light. They're the first hit—don't compromise. Start simple, scale up. NDs are worth the effort for that cinematic edge.
Content Credit: Justin Bainbridge
FAQ:
What ND filter strength for cloudy days on DJI Neo 2? Use ND8 to maintain 1/60 shutter without overexposure.
Do I need a controller for ND filters on DJI Neo 2? No—standalone works fine in auto. Controller unlocks Pro mode for finer control.
How does the 180° rule apply to DJI Neo 2 videography? Shutter speed = 1/ (2 x frame rate). E.g., 30fps needs 1/60 for natural blur.
Are Freewell ND filters compatible with DJI Neo 2 FPV? Yes, magnetic mount fits perfectly for manual FPV setups.
Can ND filters cause gimbal issues on DJI Neo 2? Power on first to avoid calibration fails. Lint-trick fixes sticky rings.