Tiffen

Tiffen 405WSFX4 40.5mm Warm Soft/FX 4 Filter

5.0 (3 reviews)

Tiffen 40.5mm Warm Soft/FX 4 filter combines gentle diffusion with subtle warmth for naturally flattering portrait photography.

$59.99*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 13, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Tiffen 40.5mm Warm Soft/FX 4 filter is designed for photographers and videographers who want to achieve a warm, softened aesthetic directly in-camera rather than relying entirely on post-processing. It merges two distinct optical effects into one filter: the Soft/FX diffusion, which gently spreads highlights and reduces the appearance of fine skin texture, and the 812 warming element, which adds a subtle warm shift that helps unify and flatter varied skin tones. This two-in-one approach means fewer filters on the lens, reduced vignetting risk, and a simpler kit for portrait sessions.

Built using Tiffen's ColorCore process, the filter effect is sandwiched between two layers of optical glass, ensuring that the warming and diffusion properties remain consistent across the entire surface and are protected from moisture and physical wear at the edges. The grade 4 strength sits near the top of the Soft/FX range, delivering a clearly visible diffusion that smooths skin and creates a dreamy glow around highlights. This makes it particularly effective for close-up portraiture, beauty work, and bridal photography, though it is less suited to genres where edge-to-edge sharpness is paramount. The 40.5mm size is relatively uncommon and primarily fits compact mirrorless lenses and select vintage optics.

Key Features

Ideal for all "people" photography.

Two best portrait effects combined.

Gives skin a warm healthy glow.

10 Year warranty.

High quality metal mounting ring.

Specifications

Filter Type
Warm Soft/FX
Filter Size
40.5mm
Diffusion Grade
4
Warming Effect
Integrated 812 warming filter
Construction
ColorCore technology
Material
Optical glass laminated between two pieces of optical glass

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Combines warming and diffusion in a single filter, reducing the need to stack multiple filters
  • ColorCore construction ensures consistent color density and long-term durability
  • The grade 4 diffusion provides a distinctly soft look ideal for portraits and beauty work
  • Optical glass construction maintains image clarity while applying the effect
  • Compact 40.5mm size adds minimal weight and bulk to small lenses

👎 Cons

  • Grade 4 diffusion is strong and may be too heavy-handed for applications beyond portraiture
  • The 40.5mm thread size fits a limited number of lenses, mostly compact mirrorless or vintage optics
  • The warming tint is baked into the filter and cannot be adjusted independently of the diffusion
  • Not ideal for landscape or architectural photography where sharpness across the frame is critical
  • Effect cannot be dialed back in post-production the way digital diffusion can

Frequently Asked Questions

The number 4 indicates the strength of the diffusion effect. Tiffen's Soft/FX filters range from 1 (subtle) to 5 (heavy), so the 4 provides a pronounced softening effect that is clearly visible while still retaining overall image detail.
The Warm Soft/FX version integrates Tiffen's 812 warming filter into the diffusion element. This means it simultaneously softens the image and adds a warm color shift that helps balance and flatter skin tones, eliminating the need to stack two separate filters.
ColorCore is Tiffen's proprietary manufacturing process where the filter effect is produced within a layer of color laminated between two pieces of optical glass. This delivers precise, consistent color density and protects the filter material from edge moisture and handling damage.
Yes, the Warm Soft/FX 4 works for both stills and video. Its diffusion and warming effects are applied optically and do not affect frame rate or resolution settings.
No, it is specifically sized at 40.5mm. To use it on lenses with different thread sizes, you would need a step-up or step-down adapter ring.