Maven Specialty Filters

Maven Specialty Filters

There have been many exciting and legendary filters designed since Maven Filters first launch in early 2023. While there is a specialty factor in all Maven Filters, there are filters that can go beyond polarizing and reducing light intake. While those tend to be more familiar, some are not, such as an Infrared Filter or Bahtinov Mask. These unique filters are photography tools made for creativity and efficiency. Let’s jump into these Maven Specialty Filters to find out what they are, what they do and how they can benefit your shooting needs.

Astrophotography Filters:

Night Sky Filter

Your nighttime photography is enhanced with the Maven Night Filter. This filter eliminates yellow to orangish color cast (this is why this filter is yellow) caused by artificial light sources like street lamps. Artificial light sources flood the sky in big cities, making it difficult to have a clear night sky that is true to life. The MAVEN Night Sky filter cuts down on artificial light pollution to achieve clearer and more captivating nightscapes. Furthermore, subjects will stand out against the backdrop of the night sky with this enhanced clarity. 

Night shots appear more natural and true to life when color cast made by artificial light sources is minimized. Elevate your nighttime photography with the Maven Night Filter, ensuring your images are free from unwanted color cast and full of captivating clarity. Say goodbye to night skies that are destroyed by city lights. See your city’s night sky in a new way you haven’t seen before!

Starry Focus Filter

Focusing on stars often is a struggle for many. The Maven Focus on Stars Filter (AKA Starry Focus) is also known as a Bahtinov Mask. This astrophotography focusing aid simplifies focusing on stars, ensuring sharp, detailed images. With its easy-to-use design, you can quickly attach the filter, manually focus using the clear star indicators, and then remove it to capture the beauty of the night sky. 

Undoubtedly this filter is perfect for both beginners and seasoned astrophotographers. Enjoy more time shooting and significantly less time getting your focus dialed in. It’s compact and tough build, as well as its all White color makes it a highly reliable, easy to access tool for any night shoot.

Infrared Photography:

The IR720 filter is designed to open up a whole new dimension in photography by exploring the fascinating realm of Infrared. The intricacies of this invisible spectrum elevates your photographic experience with infrared photography filters. 

Understanding the Invisible Spectrum:

The visible spectrum human eyes perceive are wavelengths ranging from 300 to 700 nm. The Infrared Spectrum extends from 700 to 2500 nm. This realm remains unseen by the naked eye.

While most camera sensors are inherently capable of detecting infrared, the presence of “IR Cut filters” in modern cameras limits this capability, greatly reducing the amount of IR light in normal captures, resulting in mostly visible light creating the image. One approach to capture IR light, is to have a technical make an expensive and irreversible sensor conversion of a camera by removing the IR Cut filter, resulting in a dedicated IR camera.

Why Choose the MAVEN IR720 Filter?

The Maven IR720 Filter takes a different approach, one that is much more affordable and reversible. It works by changing the ratio of visible and infrared light by blocking visible light below 720 nm. This enhances the ratio of infrared light penetrating the sensor (even with an IR Cut filter, some IR light typically still gets in). This innovative approach ensures that your camera is capturing mostly infrared light, as long as the exposure time is long enough, and for this reason we recommend using a tripod.

With the Maven Infrared Filter, there are no permanent changes and no need for expensive and irreversible camera modifications. The Maven IR720 filter seamlessly attaches to your existing camera setup, preserving your equipment’s integrity. The Maven IR720 provides an accessible introduction to this mesmerizing genre, allowing photographers of all levels to delve into the unseen. This limited edition filter features a a bold red sine wave for easy identification from your filter stack.

Transformative Effects of Infrared Photography:

Witness a dramatic transformation as water and glass surfaces appear dark, absorbing infrared light and revealing hidden details. Portraiture as skin tones become smoother and more uniform under the enchanting influence of infrared light. (Side Note: The Arena Scene in Dune 2 captured Infrared Light to give it a unique look and feel. While this required a dedicated IR camera, the unique & artistic aspects of IR imagery cannot be denied). New perspectives are made as your perception of the world is captured in a different light. Explore unseen textures, uncover hidden details, and add a touch of the extraordinary to your photography. Unveil the invisible and experience the transformative power of the IR720 Filter.

Cinematic Filters:

Show Glow Filters

Maven Show Glow Filters are designed meticulously to scatter bright light and create a captivating “glowing effect” while preserving image sharpness. These flashy filters reduce contrast and produce a soft glow around light sources, resulting in stunning visuals. Maven Show Glow Diffusion Filters maintain the sharpness of your images, ensuring every detail remains crisp and clear even in midst of the soft glow.

Show Glow Filters come in 3 different diffusion strengths. MAVEN introduces a world-first universal language on the rims of Show Glow Diffusion filters using small squares to indicate diffusion strength inversely. (e.g., 2 squares for 1/2 strength, 4 squares for 1/4 strength, and 8 squares for 1/8th strength). With these iconic filters, aesthetics meet functionality.

Streak Filters

Capture the essence of iconic cinema with our Streak Photography Filter! Designed to emulate the horizontal flare unique to anamorphic lens flare, this filter transforms your images and footage, giving them a rich, cinematic touch. From neon-lit streets, to car lights, light posts, and city lights, this filter adds a sprinkle of cinematic wonder and brilliance with signature blue or orange streaks that gracefully glide across the frame. Transform, play, and captivate with every click with lens flare, available in both blue and yellow colors.

While it may not replace a genuine anamorphic lens in every aspect, it brings its unique charm to the table. Moreover, it’s not just about flares. Watch as your bokeh takes on an elliptical charm, and get that million-dollar anamorphic look without the hefty price tag.

More Maven Filters:

To learn more about camera filters, check out this Filters Guide about Polarizing Filters,  Neutral Density Filters, Circular Graduated ND Filters, and Dark CPL ND Filters.

MAVEN’s innovative approach sets the stage for future advancements, ensuring each filter not only looks, but also feels distinct and caters to photographers of all skill levels.


Beginners Guide to Photography Lens Filters

Understanding Camera Filters

Lens Filters are a photography tool that can enhance your photos in real-time and reduce post production. There are many types of lens filters that range from polarizers, neutral density, variables, splash guards, special effects and even focusing tools. By the end of this article, you will be familiar with the common types of photography filters, when they are needed and how they are used. Our hope is to give you a better understanding of these tools and how they can improve your photos.

Unveiling Polarizing Filters

Polarizing Filters enhance saturation, contrast, and reduce reflections which overall enriches the colors in your landscape photographs. However, polarizing filters are also useful in portrait photography. Because the filter reduces harsh light, polarizers can give skin a soft finish. With reducing harsh light, clarity and depth are brought into your images and ensure every detail stands out with exceptional vibrancy. This is why polarizers are a staple tool for photographers. Simply attach the filter, and rotate it until you reach the desired amount of polarization. There are two types of polarizing filters, circular and linear. 

Linear Polarizers vs Circular Polarizers:

A Linear Polarizer changes light differently than a Circular Polarizer. Linear & Circular polarizers start as linear polarizers. The difference between the two is that CPLs also have something called a quarter wave plate which allows light to be transmitted in a helical shape, instead of a linearly oriented wave. It is the shape of these waves that make CPLs best for DSLRs as older cameras use a mirror box which light bounces off of and can be easily confused when light is linearly oriented. LPLs can be used without this issue on mirrorless cameras. Linear Polarizers have better film color while most Circular Polarizers have some color shift.

While Polarizing Filters enhance colors and reduce unwanted glare, Neutral Density Filters block out light coming into the camera lens. 

Exploring Neutral Density Filters

There is a wide array of ND or neutral density filters that reduce the amount of light coming into the lens. Neutral Density Filters can range from 2 stops of light to 20 stops of light. This offers precise light reduction for optimal exposure control. There are many uses that you can get with using ND Filters. They allow you to use a wider aperture in bright condition and long exposures to blur motion. Many videographers have fixed ISO settings and limited shutter-speed options. ND Filters give you precise control over your imagery and specialized filtration for stunning colors.

Ultra ND Filters:

Ultra ND Filters are crafted so they can be used in very bright light for longer daytime exposures. These filters can turn turbulent seas into misty water or cloud movement into smooth, ethereal streaks across the sky. Extended exposure times can add a cinematic, flowing motion to daytime time-lapse sequences. In bright conditions, the ND filter allows you to open your aperture wide without overexposing, isolating your subject against a pleasing, out-of-focus background. Especially in urban and architectural photography, long exposures can make transient elements like pedestrians or moving vehicles vanish from the frame, emphasizing the static elements.

Variable ND Filters:

A Variable ND Filter (or VND) has a range that reduces the amount of light and is comprised of 2 polarizers stacked on top of each other. Michael does not like to call them “VNDs” because the N stands for Neutral, and no polarizer can be completely color neutral, rather he prefers to call them “Variables”. You can create a variety of variable systems with Maven Filters when you stack a Linear Polarizer in front of any other Maven CPL filter for an extra 1.3 to 5 stops of light. This includes our Dark CPL line up, the original MAVEN CPL or even another MAVEN LPL. 

Graduated ND Filters:

Graduated ND Filters work by darkening the sky to balance it with a darker foreground. ND Grad Filters revolutionize the way you capture stunning landscapes and challenging lighting conditions. By using Graduated ND filters, you can capture it in camera and minimize the amount of editing time in front of your computer by avoiding the need to stack images.

Splash (UV) Guard Filter

A Splash UV Guard ensures the front of your lens, including its coatings remains safe from dust, dirt, grime, salt-water and the like. Ideal for harsh conditions, this filter has protective properties of a splash (UV) guard to get ultimate protection for your lens in dirty, dusty, or harsh weather conditions.

For an Adapter and Splash UV Guard all in one, check out this Maven Adapter Lens Protector. For more lens adaptation, a Splash Guard and Step Up Ring have been combined to make a Lens Protection Step-Up Ring. Lenses of various sizes will need Adapter Rings

The Maven Magnetic Filter Set

If you are not sure where to start, we suggest to Grab a Maven Magnetic Filter set that includes 3 Neutral Density Filters (in 3, 6 and 10 stops), our classic Magnetic Circular Polarizer, and a Splash UV Guard. The set also comes with a magnetic adapter ring that threads onto your lens and a magnetic front cap. For a fraction of the cost, check out Maven Threaded Neutral Density Filters

But wait, there’s more! You can get a Maven Smartphone Filter Set that includes bundle options that come with a 52mm Smartphone Adapter, 52mm-58mm Step-Up-Ring, 58mm CPL Phone Filter, and a 58mm 3ND Phone Filter. 

What are Dark Circular Polarizers?

Maven Filters has introduced a filter that combines an ND Filter and CPL, creating a Dark CPL ND Filter unit. If you are interested in learning more about it, read more on Dark Circular Polarizers here! 

Specialty Filters

Learn more about Specialty Filters that give you the ability to expand your creativity and capture special effects! Improve your Astrophotography with a Night Filter and a Focus on Star Filter. Start photographing something new with Infrared Filters!

Special Note on Maven Filters

Maven Filters are made with AGC Japanese optical glass, 16 layers of MRC coatings, and hydrophobic nano resistance. Maven Polarizers and Neutral Density Filters are magnetic and color neutral. The design has distinct grooves on the aluminum ring and are color-coded for easy identification and efficiency. The magnetic and color-neutral properties, coupled with intuitive design elements such as distinct grooves and color-coded rings, ensure seamless integration and effortless usability for photographers of all levels.

By understanding the nuances of various camera filters and leveraging their capabilities, photographers can elevate their craft, unlock new creative horizons, and capture awe-inspiring moments with unmatched precision and clarity.


MAVEN FILTERS WAVE 2 POP-UP OVERVIEW | RELEASE DATE Dec 27, 2023 – 8am Pacific

 

Wave 2 Kickstarter Campaign will launch on Dec 27, 2023, at 8am Pacific time.

Michael reviews all 17 incredible new WAVE 2 MAVEN filters in this video. Pop-up text provides additional trivia and insights.

The sizes available will be 82mm, 77, 72, and 67mm, with more sizes coming in early 2024.

Save up to 70% off full price with our Day 1 rewards, and we intend to start to ship to our first customers in March 2024. The campaign is set for about 31 days, and the rewards and savings will change over that period. Suffice it to say, if you want the big savings, act EARLY! Unlike our first Kickstarter, this is a “build your own set” Campaign, where you select the filters you want for your shooting package.

Want to get all the details? We are still putting the final touches on the campaign page and would love for you to check it out. Feel free to leave suggestions (You will be required to login to Kickstarter)

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/michaelthemaven/maven-color-coded-photography-and-videography-filters-wave-2?ref=b4cok2&token=d7c4baae We thank you all for your support! ~Michael


Maven Filters Wave 2 Date Announcement

MAVEN FILTERS WAVE 2 Launch Date & Kickstarter Page Sneak Peek
DEC 27, 2023 – 8am Pacific

Mark your calendars! MAVEN Filters is thrilled to announce our Wave 2 Kickstarter Campaign to launch on Dec 27, 2023, at 8am Pacific time. We are introducing 17 new incredible filters, including Variable Systems, Dark CPLs, Grads, Extreme NDs, Flares, Infrared, and new accessories. The sizes available will be 82mm, 77, 72, and 67mm, with more sizes coming in 2024.

Day 1 rewards reflect Up to 70% off full price, and if our campaign is successful, we should start to ship in March 2023.

Unlike our first Kickstarter, this is a “build your own set” Campaign, where you select the filters you want for your shooting package.

Want to get all the details? We are still putting the final touches on the campaign page and would love for you to check it out HERE. (You will need to log in to Kickstarter to see it!)

We thank you all for your support!


Ethiopia’s First Long-Range Medical Drone Network Established

 

 

[Hawassa, Ethiopia, December 5, 2023] – Ethiopia’s first long-range drone network has completed a 30-day project delivering medical items, including 6936 vaccine doses in 44 flights to 6 hard-to-reach communities. The first two deliveries in the network took place on Friday, October 20th, 2023, and included vaccines against tuberculosis, poliovirus, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Hib, and hepatitis B. These deliveries carried enough vaccines to supply these target locations for one month and mark a significant step in improving healthcare delivery in Ethiopia’s most remote regions.

Australian drone company Swoop Aero’s automated, remote-piloted aircraft Kite can fly up to 120 kilometers with a 3 kg payload before requiring a battery swap. A battery swap location has been established midway to reach the most remote clinics, extending the network’s reach to 240 kilometers from the distribution hub. The drone flies pre-planned routes that have been mapped to avoid obstacles such as mountains, power lines, and buildings. Kite takes off and lands vertically, allowing for two-way delivery and providing the ability to speed diagnostic samples from hard-to-reach communities to central labs.

The 30-day project was funded by Red Lightning and operated by Freight in Time and the Information Network Security Agency (INSA).  Drone logistics is the latest phase in a multi-year initiative to bring supply chain innovation to the last-mile delivery of healthcare items in the region.  The Global Fund, the Ethiopian Ministry of Health, the Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Supply Service (EPSS), and Freight in Time (FiT) formed a private-public partnership in 2020 aimed to reduce missed vaccinations, target at-risk-zero-dose children, and eliminate medical item stockouts at the local level.  The UPS Foundation and GAVI have provided financial support for this PPP since 2022 and have generously committed an additional US$1 million to continue this support through 2024.

The response from the local communities has been overwhelmingly positive.  This collaborative effort exemplifies the power of innovation, technology, and community engagement in improving healthcare access and saving lives in Ethiopia.  On Dec 1st, an expansion was approved.  The medical drone network will run for an additional 90 days starting in early 2024, and the network will double in size.

 

Red Lightning:

Red Lightning is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that conducted community awareness training and sponsored the network for the first 30 days. They trained local staff and community leaders on general awareness of the technology, its importance, and safety precautions. Their role is vital in ensuring the local population understands and accepts the technology.

Swoop Aero:

Swoop Aero is an Australian-based drone company providing the drone technology, technical support, maintenance, and pilot training. They are the technical backbone of the initiative. They had a team in Ethiopia for 30 days to set up the sites and train INSA staff on piloting and FIT on daily operations and maintenance.

Freight in Time Limited (FIT):

Freight in Time Group is a leading local and regional 3PL and 4PL supply chain company with a strong track record of successful project management in the humanitarian sector. FIT is committed to delivering innovative and impactful solutions, particularly in the area of last-mile distribution of critical commodities such as vaccines and pharmaceuticals. Before the start of this initiative, the PPP of FIT and EPSS had already improved shelf availability at Last Mile Health Facilities from 41% to 95%, indicating their supply chain management expertise. They are now leveraging drone technology to enhance the distribution of medical supplies further and close the final gap in healthcare delivery, ensuring that even hardest-to-reach clinics have the necessary resources promptly.

Information Network Security Agency of Ethiopia (INSA):

INSA is responsible for the drones’ daily operations, maintenance, and piloting. Their role is to operate the drones effectively, ensuring that they are deployed to transport medical supplies, fulfill healthcare delivery needs, and meet any emergency requirements efficiently and safely. Their expertise in network security also contributes to the overall safety and reliability of drone operations.

Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Supply Service (EPSS):

EPSS serves as a coordination and supply hub for clinic orders. Their primary responsibility is coordinating with healthcare clinics to determine their medical supply needs and fulfill the orders to ensure the right medical supplies are available. They load the drones with the required medical supplies, ensuring the correct items are sent to each clinic. In doing so, they ensure that the drone deliveries accurately fulfill the healthcare requirements of the clinics.

 Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance:

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance is a public-private partnership that helps vaccinate more than half the world’s children against some of the world’s deadliest diseases. The Vaccine Alliance brings together developing countries and donor governments, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the World Bank, the vaccine industry, technical agencies, civil society, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and other private sector partners. View the full list of donor governments and other leading organizations that fund Gavi’s work here.