Hoya Pro ND200 72mm: Long Exposure Setup Guide
By The Camera Gear Shop | Published: 2026-10-31
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to set up your camera for long exposures with the Hoya Pro ND200 72mm filter. Get step-by-step instructions and avoid common mistakes.
Quick answer
To use the Hoya Pro ND200 72mm for long exposures, meter without the filter, then add 7 2/3 stops of exposure time. Focus before attaching the filter, and use a sturdy tripod and remote release to avoid shake.
Why the ND200 is ideal for bright conditions
The ND200 reduces light by 7 2/3 stops, making it perfect for long exposures in daylight. For example, a scene that meters at 1/60 sec at f/22 becomes a 4-second exposure with the filter attached. This lets you blur moving water, clouds, or crowds even under full sun.
When the ND200 might be too strong
Because it cuts so much light, the ND200 can be overkill for overcast days or when you want a moderate shutter speed. If you need more flexibility, consider a lighter ND filter or a variable ND. Also, the strong density can make autofocus unreliable, so manual focus is recommended.
Step-by-step long exposure setup
- Mount your camera on a sturdy tripod: Secure the camera and use a remote release or self-timer to prevent shake. Even slight movement can blur a long exposure. Check that all tripod locks are tight before proceeding.
- Compose and focus without the filter: Attach your lens, compose the scene, and manually focus. The ND200 is too dark for reliable autofocus. Then switch lens to manual focus to lock it. Use live view magnification for precise focus.
- Meter the scene without the filter: Set your desired aperture (e.g., f/8 for sharpness) and note the shutter speed the camera suggests. This is your base exposure. Use spot metering on a mid-tone area for accuracy.
- Calculate the new shutter speed: Add 7 2/3 stops to your base shutter speed. For example, if base is 1/60 sec, 7 stops slower is about 2 seconds, and 2/3 stop more gives 3.2 seconds. Round to 3 seconds or use a timer. Use a stop calculator app to avoid math errors.
- Attach the filter and shoot in manual mode: Screw on the Hoya Pro ND200 72mm, set your camera to manual mode, and dial in the calculated shutter speed. Use a remote release to trigger the shutter. Enable long exposure noise reduction if your camera supports it.
- Review and adjust: Check the histogram for clipping and adjust shutter speed if needed. If highlights are blown, reduce exposure time slightly. Bracket exposures if unsure, but avoid moving the camera.
Product facts
- Hoya Pro ND200 72mm Neutral Density Filter: Filter factor of 200, which equals 7 2/3 stops of light loss. This allows you to use slow shutter speeds in bright light, enabling creative motion blur without overexposure.
Hoya Pro ND200 72mm Neutral Density Filter
