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Hoya 1246 55mm HMC Close-Up +2 Lens Filter — main product image
Hoya 1246 55mm HMC Close-Up +2 Lens Filter
Hoya 1246 55mm HMC Close-Up +2 Lens Filter
Hoya 1246 55mm HMC Close-Up +2 Lens Filter
Hoya

Hoya 1246 55mm HMC Close-Up +2 Lens Filter

★★★★★4.6 (8 reviews)

Hoya 55mm HMC close-up filter with over 97% light transmission for sharp, flare-free macro photography.

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Overview

The Hoya 55mm HMC Close-Up +2 Filter is a supplementary lens element that screws directly into the filter thread of any 55mm lens, reducing its minimum focus distance so you can photograph subjects at closer range. This makes it a practical and affordable entry point into close-up and macro-style photography without the expense or weight of a dedicated macro lens. The +2 diopter strength offers a moderate level of magnification suitable for flowers, insects, small products, and detail shots.

What sets this filter apart from uncoated alternatives is Hoya's HMC (Hoya Multi-Coating) technology, applied to both glass surfaces. This coating reduces internal reflections to deliver over 97% average light transmission, which translates to sharp contrast, accurate color reproduction, and minimal flare or ghosting — even when shooting toward light sources. The filter is lightweight and adds virtually no bulk to your setup, making it an easy addition to any camera bag for spontaneous close-up shooting opportunities.

Key Features

Supplementary lens, screws into the filter thread of your lens

Great for Close-Up (Macro) photography

HMC filters minimise reflection to increase light transmission and reduce flare and ghosting

Over 97% light transmission for sharp contrast and well balanced colour

Hoya 55mm HMC Close-Up +2 Filter

Specifications

Brand
Hoya
Model
1246
Filter Size
55mm
Filter Type
Close-Up +2 Diopter
Coating
Hoya Multi-Coated (HMC)
Light Transmission
Over 97%
Color
Black

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • HMC multi-coating delivers over 97% light transmission with minimal flare and ghosting
  • Provides affordable close-up capability without investing in a dedicated macro lens
  • Screws directly into the 55mm filter thread with no adapters or special mounting required
  • Lightweight and compact enough to carry in a filter pouch without adding bulk to your kit
  • No loss of light means no exposure compensation is needed when shooting

👎 Cons

  • The +2 diopter provides only moderate magnification, which may not be sufficient for extreme close-up work
  • Image sharpness can soften toward the edges of the frame, particularly at wider apertures
  • Only available in 55mm thread size, requiring step-up rings for lenses with different filter diameters
  • Reduces the effective focus range, limiting the filter to close-up distances only while attached

Frequently Asked Questions

The +2 diopter strength provides moderate magnification, allowing you to focus closer to your subject than your lens normally permits. It reduces the minimum focus distance without requiring a dedicated macro lens.
Yes, close-up filters can be stacked to increase magnification. However, stacking multiple filters may introduce slight image softness or vignetting, especially at wider focal lengths.
HMC stands for Hoya Multi-Coating. It is applied to both surfaces of the filter to minimize reflections, reduce flare and ghosting, and maintain over 97% light transmission for sharp contrast and accurate color.
This filter fits any lens with a 55mm filter thread. Check the front of your lens or its specifications to confirm the thread size before purchasing.
The filter can reduce the effective focus range of your lens, so autofocus may hunt in some situations. Manual focus is often preferred for close-up work to ensure precise subject sharpness.

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