Summary
- The new PolarPro Radial Gradient Filters add colour towards the frame edges while keeping the centre cleaner.
- The three-filter set is designed for photography and video.
PolarPro is expanding its Jean Black series with a three-filter Radial Gradient set that adds orange, red or blue colour towards the edges of the frame while keeping the centre more neutral.
The three filters are called Emanate, Ember and Evoke, corresponding to orange, red and blue looks. PolarPro positions them as creative optical filters for both photography and video, designed to establish the look during capture rather than relying entirely on post-processing.
Unlike a conventional graduated ND filter, the purpose here is not to balance exposure between sky and foreground. The radial gradient is chromatic: the centre stays cleaner while colour intensity increases towards the frame edges.
Three colours building from the centre to the edges
Emanate adds an orange tone, Ember red and Evoke blue. The idea is to keep the main subject closer to a more neutral central area while progressively adding colour around the surrounding frame.
PolarPro says the filters use optical glass and presents them as a way to create an in-camera atmosphere without having to build the entire effect in post.
Why the effect changes with the lens
The strength of the radial effect is not completely fixed. As PetaPixel notes, it can vary with the lens, focal length and optical design, because different lenses render the outer parts of the frame differently.
That makes subject placement and lens choice part of the effect itself. A centred portrait can preserve more natural tones on the face while allowing the edges to take on a stronger colour signature.
Sizes and compatibility
The set is available in 49mm, 67mm, 77mm and 82mm thread sizes, plus a Helix MagLock version. PolarPro’s official FAQ says the Jean Black Radial Gradient Filters are sold only as a three-pack rather than as individual filters.
The threaded versions work with many standard lens caps, while the Helix version includes its dedicated magnetic cap.
Price and availability
PolarPro’s official product page lists a starting price of $179.99 for the 49mm version, while the Helix version is listed at $229.99. The product is shown as a pre-order and the listing states shipping from October 7, 2026. No official European price was found.
More information here.
What we think
The Radial Gradient Filters are not general-purpose filters but a deliberately creative tool that moves part of the colour decision in front of the lens. That can give a consistent character to a set of stills or shots, but the result depends on lens, light and composition, so it deserves testing before a critical shoot. The advantage is seeing and committing to the look on set; the corresponding limitation is that the colour effect is already recorded in the file.
Frequently asked questions
Which colours are included?
The set includes three filters: Emanate in orange, Ember in red and Evoke in blue.
Which sizes are available?
49mm, 67mm, 77mm and 82mm thread sizes, plus a Helix MagLock version.
Are these ND filters?
No. Their function is creative and chromatic, using a radial gradient from the centre towards the edges; they are not presented as neutral-density filters.
Can they be used for video?
Yes. PolarPro designs the set for both photography and filmmaking.
Can each colour be purchased separately?
No. The series is sold as a three-filter set.
