Shooting in a downpour is not unheard of, in fact, most high-end DSLRs are completely waterproof for that reason. However, photographers still need to ensure their lens isn’t covered in water droplets that can end up obscuring a shot — either by wiping the lens every few seconds, or trying out this new filter from Tokina that prevents water from forming drops in the first place.
The hydrophobic rain dispersion filter was actually by developed Tokina working alongside the NHK in Japan, and it features a specially developed coating that causes water to spread evenly across the glass surface before flowing off. And this happens almost instantly, so the view through the filter is obscured for less than a second before the water is gone.
Available early next year, the filters will no doubt be snatched up by nature photographers who spend weeks in the rain forest stalking their subjects. And sports broadcasters should never fear a rainy outdoor venue — or celebratory Gatorade bath — ever again. [Vimeo via The Phoblographer via PetaPixel]