Hoya

Hoya Corporation, founded in Tokyo in 1941 as Japan's first specialized manufacturer of optical glass, is a global company that has made a name for itself through innovations in optics. In addition to contact lenses, eyeglass lenses, and medical optics, Hoya is one of the world's leading manufacturers of camera lens filters. Through its subsidiary Kenko Tokina Co., Ltd., which handles the worldwide distribution of Hoya filters, the brand offers a wide range of products for amateur and professional photographers. Hoya filters are known for their high optical quality, robust construction, and advanced technologies that enhance image quality and protect lenses.
Product Portfolio
Hoya offers a wide range of filters for different photographic needs, available in round (screw-on) and square formats (e.g., Sq100 system) and sizes from 37 mm to 105 mm:
UV and protective filters: Series such as the HD Mk II Protector and FUSION Antistatic absorb UV light, protect lenses from scratches, and offer water and oil repellency. The Alpha II Protector is an entry-level model with a simple multi-layer coating.

Circular polarizing filters (CIR-PL): Models such as the HD CIR-PL or Ultra-Pro CIR-PL eliminate reflections from non-metallic surfaces (e.g., water, glass), enhance colors, and increase contrast, especially in landscape photography.

Neutral Density (ND) Filters: Series such as ProND EX, HD Mk II IRND, and PROND (ND8, ND64, ND1000) reduce light by 2 to 10 f-stops, ideal for long exposures (e.g., smoothing water, light trails). ACCU-ND technology ensures neutral color balance.

Specialty Filters:
Starscape: Reduces light pollution for clearer astrophotography.

Mist/Diffusion: Series such as Black Mist or CinePRO HD Mist create soft, cinematic effects for portraits or videos.

Infrared (IR): For infrared photography with DSLRs or film, blocks visible light.

Color Filters: E.g., portrait filters that enhance pink tones, or red filters for black-and-white photography.

Macro/Close-up: Shorten the working distance for close-ups.

Star Filters: Create star-shaped light effects, e.g., for night photography.

Filter Kits: Practical sets such as the HD Mk II IRND Kit (ND8, ND64, ND1000) or the PROND EX Kit for long exposures.

Accessories: Instant Action (magnetic filter system), adapter rings for Sq100 filters, filter pouches, and cleaning kits.

Innovation and Technology
Hoya relies on advanced technologies to maximize performance and ease of use:
Multi-layer coating: Up to 32 layers (e.g., HD nano Mk II) reduce reflections and ghosting, and increase light transmission (up to 97% for HMC filters).

Nano-coating: Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant coating on HD nano Mk II filters that repels dirt, water, and oil.

ACCU-ND technology: Ensures neutral color reproduction without color cast, especially with ND filters.

Antistatic coating: EVO Antistatic and FUSION series prevent dust adhesion, ideal for outdoor use.

Tempered glass: HD Mk II filters use tempered UV glass for added protection.

Instant Action System: Magnetic filter attachment for quick changes, compatible with existing lenses.

Design and Ease of Use
Hoya filters feature a robust, modern design. The filter frames are made of lightweight aluminum or magnesium alloys, often with a low profile to minimize vignetting on wide-angle lenses. Precise threads ensure easy installation, and the water- and oil-repellent coatings facilitate cleaning. Series like the UX (User eXperience) are designed for intuitive operation, while square systems like the Sq100 allow for flexible adjustments. The packaging is compact, with clear information about the filter type and size, making selection easier in stores.
Areas of Application
Hoya filters are versatile:
Landscape photography: CIR-PL filters for more intense colors and contrasts, ND filters for long exposures (e.g., waterfalls, clouds).

Portrait photography: Mist or portrait filters for softer, cinematic looks.

Astrophotography: Starscape filters reduce light pollution for clearer constellations.

Street and reportage photography: UV or protective filters for lens protection without affecting the image.

Videography: ND filters for fluid motion, mist filters for atmospheric scenes.

Macro and infrared photography: Special filters for close-ups or experimental effects.

Quality and Market Position
Hoya is known for its first-class workmanship, with strict quality controls and production in Japan or the Philippines. Each filter undergoes spectrophotometer testing and ultrasonic cleaning to ensure the highest standards. The brand has held its own against competitors such as B+W and K&F Concept and enjoys an excellent reputation among photographers worldwide. The revival of analog photography and the growing demand for cine effects have strengthened Hoya's position, as demonstrated by posts on X praising the clarity of HD nano Mk II filters or the versatility of ND kits. Through partnerships with Kenko Tokina and retailers worldwide, Hoya remains a favorite among retailers.
Hoya combines precision, innovation, and durability to provide photographers and videographers with high-quality filters that support creative visions in every shooting situation.