Simon Songhurst · Photography & Filmmaking
Freewell V2
Magnetic VND
+ CPL Review
One magnetic filter system for two different ways of working. I've been using the Freewell V2 with my Sony and LUMIX cameras to see whether combining a variable ND, circular polariser and magnetic mounting system genuinely makes life easier for a hybrid photographer.
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The full video review
Watch the Freewell V2 in use
Hands-on review · Sony A7 IV
Panasonic LUMIX S5IIX
The short answer
The reason I like the Freewell V2 isn't simply the filter itself. It's the way it simplifies working across different cameras. Simon Songhurst · Photographer & Filmmaker
Is the Freewell V2 Worth It?
For hybrid photographers and filmmakers using multiple lenses, I think the Freewell V2 is a compelling premium option. It combines a 3–7 stop variable neutral density filter and circular polariser with a magnetic mounting system designed to make changing filters faster.
What interests me most is being able to use one filter system across my photography and filmmaking setups, rather than buying separate high-quality filters for every lens.
It isn't necessarily the right purchase for everyone. If you use a single lens and rarely need a variable ND, a simpler filter may make more sense. But for my particular workflow, the magnetic system offers some genuine practical benefits.
01 / My real-world workflow
Two Cameras.
One Filter System.
I've spent much of my career shooting both photography and motion. Even with today's increasingly capable hybrid cameras, I often prefer to keep separate setups ready for stills and filmmaking.
My Sony A7 IV paired with the Sony 24–70mm GM is a versatile photography setup. For video, I enjoy using the Panasonic LUMIX S5IIX with a Sirui anamorphic lens.
Both setups serve a purpose, but different lenses bring different filter thread sizes. That can quickly become inconvenient, particularly when working with variable ND filters and polarisers.
My objective was simple: one filter system that could move between both cameras without repeatedly screwing filters on and off.
The Freewell V2 makes that possible with compatible magnetic lens adapters.
Sony A7 IV
Sony 24–70mm GM. A versatile standard zoom for commercial, editorial and everyday photography. The lens uses an 82mm filter thread.
LUMIX S5IIX
Sirui anamorphic lens. A different visual approach for motion work. The Sirui 50mm demonstrated in the review has a 67mm front filter thread.
Freewell V2
Magnetic mounting. With compatible adapters installed, the same filter assembly can be transferred between these lenses without repeatedly threading the filter.
02 / The filter system
VND. CPL. Magnetic.
One Working System.
The Freewell V2 brings together the functions I regularly need when moving between stills and motion. The design is built around practical handling as much as filtration.
3–7 Stops
Variable ND control helps manage exposure while retaining your preferred aperture and shutter speed.
CPL
Circular polarisation helps control reflections and glare, depending on the scene and direction of light.
Magnetic
Quick attachment and removal with compatible lens adapters reduces repeated screw-in filter changes.
Modular
Compatible magnetic accessories extend the system, including the Glow Mist 1/4 demonstrated in my review.
03 / Filter handling
The best equipment is the equipment that gets out of the way and lets you concentrate on the image. My approach to hybrid shooting
Independent Control. Better Workflow.
One of the more useful aspects of the V2 is being able to adjust the circular polariser and variable ND independently.
I can first rotate the polariser to manage reflections or glare, then secure the setting using the locking mechanism.
The variable ND can then be adjusted through its 3–7 stop range to control exposure.
The adjustment feels smooth, which is especially welcome when working with motion.
There is one important consideration: the effectiveness of a CPL changes with the light and shooting angle. I always treat it as a creative control rather than a setting that should remain unchanged for every shot.
04 / Generation two
Freewell V1 vs V2.
The Details Matter.
I previously reviewed the original Freewell V1, so the idea of combining ND and CPL filtration isn't new to me.
What stands out with the V2 is the refinement of the physical user experience.
The magnetic handling feels straightforward, the controls operate smoothly and the construction has the premium feel I would expect from a system at this level.
One of my favourite improvements is actually something very small: the magnetic front lens cap now has a removal tab.
Magnetic caps can sometimes be awkward to lift away, so this seemingly minor change makes a noticeable difference in everyday use.
Magnetic Handling
A straightforward way to attach and remove the filter when moving between compatible lenses.
Control Feel
Smooth physical adjustments help make the system intuitive when setting exposure and polarisation.
Lens Cap Design
The updated removal tab is a simple refinement that makes handling noticeably easier.
A Filter System Built Around the Way You Shoot.
Explore Freewell V2 →05 / Accessories and expansion
More Than Just an ND Filter.
Magnetic Cap
The magnetic front cap protects the filter when not in use. The improved pull tab makes it easier to remove.
Glow Mist 1/4
Freewell supplied a separate Glow Mist 1/4 filter for this review. It attaches magnetically and provides another creative option.
Carry Case
The premium storage case keeps the system organised and makes it more convenient to carry between locations.
Accessory availability and kit contents vary. The Glow Mist filter shown in the review was supplied separately.
06 / Technical overview
Freewell V2 Specifications.
The headline details of the magnetic hybrid system reviewed here, with the practical considerations that matter when choosing a configuration.
These are the relevant specifications and setup details discussed in this review. Always check Freewell's current product information for the exact configuration you require.
07 / Buying advice
Who Should Buy the Freewell V2?
Where It Makes Sense
- You shoot both photography and filmmaking.
- You regularly switch between lenses or cameras.
- You need both variable ND and CPL control.
- You value faster filter changes on location.
- You want to work with compatible magnetic accessories.
- You appreciate premium physical construction.
Where I'd Think Twice
- You use one lens and rarely change filters.
- You don't need a variable ND or polariser.
- Your lenses require adapters not included in your chosen kit.
- You shoot very wide and need to assess possible vignetting.
- You require measured optical performance from controlled tests.
- A simple screw-in filter already meets your needs.
08 / Simon's verdict
Premium. Practical.
Genuinely Useful.
For me, the Freewell V2 is about making the shooting process simpler, not adding another accessory to manage.
The combination of variable ND and CPL is useful, but the magnetic workflow is what really distinguishes the system for me.
Being able to move one filter assembly between my Sony photography setup and LUMIX filmmaking setup is an appealing proposition.
I appreciate the smooth adjustments, the magnetic handling, the improved lens cap and the ability to expand the system with compatible creative filters.
This is a premium purchase, and I wouldn't suggest everyone needs it. But for someone regularly switching between photography and filmmaking, I think the convenience makes a very strong case.
It's a system that fits the way I actually work.
View Freewell V2 →Freewell V2 questions
Questions Answered.
What is the Freewell V2 Magnetic Hybrid VND + CPL?
It's a magnetic filter system that combines a variable neutral density filter and a circular polariser. The version reviewed offers a 3–7 stop variable ND range.
Can I use the Freewell V2 on multiple cameras?
Yes, provided your lenses use compatible magnetic mounting adapters. I demonstrate moving the filter between Sony and Panasonic LUMIX camera setups.
Can the CPL and VND be adjusted separately?
Yes. The system allows you to adjust the polarising effect and then control the variable ND separately.
What does 3–7 stop variable ND mean?
The filter reduces incoming light by approximately three to seven stops, helping you manage exposure in brighter conditions while maintaining preferred filming settings.
Is the Freewell V2 suitable for anamorphic lenses?
I demonstrate it with a Sirui anamorphic lens. You should check compatibility, adapter sizing and potential vignetting with your particular lens and shooting format.
Can I use Glow Mist with the Freewell V2?
The system supports compatible magnetic accessories. I demonstrate Freewell's Glow Mist 1/4 diffusion filter in the video. It was supplied separately for this review.
What has improved compared with Freewell V1?
The refinements I particularly appreciate relate to handling, smooth controls and the updated magnetic lens cap with its removal tab.
Is the Freewell V2 worth buying?
For photographers and filmmakers who work across multiple lenses or cameras, I think it's a compelling premium system. If you only use one lens, a simpler filter may be sufficient.
Freewell V2 Magnetic Hybrid
One System.
More Creative Freedom.
If you're looking for a premium magnetic filter system for both photography and filmmaking, explore the Freewell V2 and check the available configurations for your lenses.
Explore Freewell V2 →Affiliate link · Current prices and kit options at Freewell