For the DJI Mini 3, use the DJI Mini 3 Pro ND Filters Set (ND16, ND64 and ND256), which DJI lists as compatible with the Mini 3. In bright sun use ND256 at 24 to 30 fps or ND64 at 60 fps, ND64 in hazy sun, and ND16 on overcast days. Set ISO 100 in Pro mode and aim for a shutter about double your frame rate.
Why the Mini 3 needs strong filters
The Mini 3's 24 mm lens has a fixed f/1.7 aperture. That's very bright, which helps in low light but means daylight video gets shot at extremely fast shutter speeds. Fast shutters make motion look choppy, with no natural blur. ND filters cut light so the shutter can slow down:
- ND16: 4 stops
- ND64: 6 stops
- ND256: 8 stops
DJI's Mini 3 manual lists this ND16/64/256 set among the qualified accessories and says to use ND filters when you need a longer exposure.
Target shutter speeds
| Frame rate | Target shutter |
|---|---|
| 24 or 25 fps | 1/50 |
| 30 fps | 1/60 |
| 48 or 50 fps | 1/100 |
| 60 fps (2.7K or 1080p) | 1/120 |
The Mini 3 records 4K at up to 30 fps, and 2.7K or 1080p at up to 60 fps.
Which filter for which light
| Light | 24-30 fps | 60 fps |
|---|---|---|
| Bright midday sun | ND256 | ND64 |
| Hazy sun | ND64 | ND64 |
| Overcast | ND16 | ND16 |
| Golden hour | ND16 | None |
The filters are two stops apart, so you won't always land exactly on target. Pick the stronger filter and raise ISO slightly, or the weaker one and accept a slightly faster shutter. Either looks better than no filter.
How to set exposure
- Fit the filter with the drone powered off, holding the gimbal gently.
- In DJI Fly, switch to Pro mode.
- Set ISO 100 and a fixed white balance.
- Set the shutter for your frame rate.
- Check the exposure meter and histogram. Too bright: use a stronger filter. Too dark: a weaker one.
Do filters affect weight?
Each filter in the set weighs about 0.75 g according to DJI's manual. That's tiny, but the Mini 3 already weighs about 248 g, and some combinations of accessories or the larger Plus battery take it over 250 g. If you fly recreationally and rely on staying under 250 g to skip FAA registration, check the weight with everything fitted.
Tips
- Recheck when you change frame rate. 30 to 60 fps doubles the target shutter, often dropping you from ND256 to ND64.
- Keep filters clean. A smudge shows up as haze in every frame.
- Photos rarely need ND. Use them for creative long exposures of water or for motion blur in timelapse sequences.
- Remove them at dusk. Even ND16 costs four stops you'll need as light fades.
Do you need ND filters?
For casual clips, no. For smooth, cinematic daylight video, they're one of the best upgrades for the Mini 3.
For the rest of your setup, see best Mini 3 settings, browse drone accessories, or shop the DJI Mini 3.
Related guides
- Which ND filters for the DJI Mini 4 Pro? Settings guide
- Which ND filters for the DJI Mini 5 Pro? Settings guide
- Best DJI Mini 3 camera settings for photo and video
- Which ND filters for the DJI Air 3? Settings guide
- Which ND filters for the DJI Air 3S? Settings guide
- Which ND filters for the DJI Avata 2? Settings guide
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