[Photography] Freewell Mag Filters and Brandon Li – Cool collab

The post Freewell Mag Filters and Brandon Li – Cool collab appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Sime.

We shared some news on Freewell filters recently in a review format (First time I’ve tried them, tldr; they’re great) anyhoo – the team have brought out a new kit with Brandon Li and it’s well worth a look!

Take a look at the series here

Here’s what the team at Freewell have to say:

Freewell Introduces the Brandon Li Signature VND/CPL System – The World’s Slimmest Locking VND with a 100% Mechanism-Free Design

Hong Kong – May 2026 – Freewell, a global leader in premium camera accessories, announces the launch of the Brandon Li x Freewell VND/CPL System, a next-generation filter solution built for filmmakers who demand precision, speed, and reliability in real shooting environments.

Co-developed with filmmaker Brandon Li, this system redefines how variable ND filters are designed and used. After around 2 years of development and multiple prototype iterations, Freewell has engineered the world’s slimmest locking VND with a 100% mechanism-free design—removing traditional internal components that often cause failure, inconsistency, or bulk.

Unlike conventional VND systems that rely on complex internal mechanisms, this design delivers pure optical performance with zero mechanical dependency, resulting in a slimmer profile, improved reliability, and consistent results in demanding shooting conditions. Built as a complete modular system, the VND/CPL unit works seamlessly with an included ND32 filter to deliver a full 1–10 stop range, while maintaining control over reflections through the CPL. Optional diffusion filters such as Glow Mist further expand creative possibilities without disrupting the workflow.

The system is designed to reduce friction during production. Instead of carrying multiple filters and constantly swapping them, creators can rely on a single, compact setup that adapts instantly to changing light conditions.

Key Features:

· World’s Slimmest Locking VND – Ultra-thin profile without compromising performance?

· 100% Mechanism-Free Design – No internal mechanical parts, ensuring long-term reliability?

· Hybrid VND + CPL System – Control exposure and reflections simultaneously

? · Expandable 1–10 Stop Range – Combine with ND32 for extended light control

? · True Color Optics – Maintains accurate tones without unwanted color shift?

· Modular Workflow System – Add or remove filters without interrupting your setup?

· Multi-Size Compatibility – Works across lenses from 49mm to 95mm?

· Integrated Protection – Front and rear caps included with built-in grey card

“This system was built to remove the usual friction filmmakers deal with when traveling or shooting on location. You don’t have to think about swapping filters. It just works the way you need it to.”? — Brandon Li

“This product took around two years of development and multiple iterations to get right. The goal was simple but difficult to execute: remove all mechanical dependency and create the slimmest possible locking VND without compromising optical performance. What we ended up with is a system that’s more reliable, more compact, and built for real-world use.”? — Gary Lu, Product Designer, Freewell

The post Freewell Mag Filters and Brandon Li – Cool collab appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Sime.

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