B+W 550 Orange Filter MRC nano MASTER for Maximum Contrast
With the B+W 550 Orange Filter from the MASTER line, you can precisely control contrast and give your images an impressive, almost graphic look. The powerful orange filter darkens violet and blue tones very strongly, green noticeably, and even yellow-green visibly. This creates pronounced tonal separation, adding depth and structure especially in black-and-white photography.
Bright cloudy skies become dramatically emphasized. At the same time, the filter brightens skin tones significantly compared to plant greens. This creates an exciting contrast between body and landscape, especially in outdoor nude photography. The B+W MASTER Filter is also an ideal choice for landscape photography, architectural photography, as well as mountain and panoramic landscapes.
The high-quality MASTER filter mount stands out with its slim profile and excellent mechanical stability. Made from durable brass, it remains dimensionally stable and long-lasting. Even with wide-angle lenses from 17 mm on full-frame or 10 mm on APS-C, the filter can generally be used without vignetting. Thanks to the front thread, you can easily attach additional filters or a lens hood.
The MRC nano coating ensures maximum anti-reflection performance with its multi-coating layer and minimizes stray light. With an extremely low residual reflection of only 0.5 percent, you avoid ghosting and achieve brilliant colors along with rich contrast. The nano-based outer layer is water- and dirt-repellent. Water droplets simply bead off, and fogging dissipates quickly. This keeps your filter ready for use even in changing conditions.
You are investing in true precision Made in Germany. The filter glass is mounted stress-free within the frame, ensuring maximum optical performance. For you, this means maximum sharpness, clear structures, and full control over your image aesthetics.
How does the B+W 550 Orange Filter affect the sky?
The filter strongly darkens blue tones. This makes the sky appear much darker while clouds stand out with greater contrast. The result is dramatic and highly dimensional.
Is the orange filter suitable for black-and-white photography?
Yes, this is where it truly excels. The enhanced tonal separation creates clear structures and a graphic image effect.
Can I use the filter with wide-angle lenses?
Thanks to the slim MASTER mount, the filter can be used with many wide-angle lenses. As a general guideline, it is considered safe from 17 mm on full-frame or 10 mm on APS-C.
What are the benefits of the MRC nano coating?
It reduces reflections, increases contrast and color brilliance, and makes the surface water- and dirt-repellent. Cleaning is quick and easy.
Technical Specifications
- Filter type: Orange Filter O 550 replaces 040
- Coating: MRC nano multi-resistant coating 7+1 per side
- Residual reflection: approx. 0.5 percent
- Mount: MASTER brass mount with front thread
- Special feature: Rear-side glass fixation with retaining ring
- Manufacturing: Made in Germany
Note: Slight brightness differences compared to filters 022, 040, 090, and 091 are technically inherent and only minimally affect grayscale gradation. The high quality remains fully maintained.