Kenko Tokina Launches "PRO1D R-Natural Cross" Filter for Subtle, Delicate Sparkle in Everyday Scenes

Kenko Tokina Co., Ltd. (President: Tadashi Sakurai) announced that it will begin selling the "PRO1D R-Natural Cross," a 4-line cross filter with a subtle effect that adds delicate sparkle to everyday life, starting June 19, 2026.

The manufacturer's suggested retail price (excluding tax) ranges from 7,600 yen (49mm size) to 14,300 yen (82mm size).

PRO1D R-Natural Cross

PRO1D R-Natural Cross

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The concept of the Natural Cross is "a cross filter you'll want to keep attached." It suppresses the effect compared to conventional cross filters, making light sparkle delicately. Reflections of light on glass, shimmering water surfaces, small glints on accessories – it adds a subtle sparkle to ordinary everyday scenery.

*"R-" signifies a rotating frame.

Subtle and Delicate Sparkle

A cross filter is a lens filter that extends light rays from strong point light sources to emphasize their sparkle. It is effective for point light sources such as night views, illuminations, fireworks, starry skies, water reflections, sunbeams, and accessories. Even in scenes where conventional cross filters might feel too strong, the Natural Cross allows for subtle연출 (direction/staging). It is particularly recommended for shooting in backlight or when capturing reflections on glass, metal, or water surfaces. Since it hardly reacts to weak point light sources, it is also recommended for those who want to keep a cross filter attached to their lens at all times.

*The appearance of light rays varies depending on shooting conditions. Lines may appear longer with very strong light sources.

Conventional Cross Filter (R-Cross) Used Natural Cross Used

Effect Unused Filter Natural Cross Used

Natural Cross Used

Natural Cross Used

Grid Pattern in Bokeh is Less Noticeable

With conventional cross filters, the grid pattern of the filter glass can sometimes be reflected in the bokeh. However, the Natural Cross is designed so that this pattern is less noticeable. It allows you to express the sparkle of light without compromising the beauty of soft bokeh.

*The appearance of the grid pattern depends on shooting conditions. It does not mean the pattern will not appear at all.

Cropped Comparison of Bokeh Areas

Conventional Cross Filter (R-Cross) Used Natural Cross Used

Turns the Sun into a Rainbow Spotlight

When shooting the sun, the Natural Cross produces colorful hues in the light rays. By utilizing these colors, it can create a rainbow spotlight-like light effect. You can enjoy dramatic expressions that make the subject stand out. Focusing on the sun results in thin, sharp rays, while focusing on a foreground object and blurring the sun creates thicker, softer rays. By placing the sun outside the frame, you can achieve an effect like one or two spotlights. A tip for shooting is to utilize sunlight low in the sky in the early morning or late afternoon. Colors tend to appear more prominently against a dark background.

Natural Cross Used

Natural Cross Used

[ Tips ]

Set up to blur the sun (use a smaller aperture, telephoto lens, or get closer to the subject).
Compose the shot so that only the light rays from the cross filter are visible, without the sun itself.
Colors tend to appear more prominently against a dark background.
Focus on a foreground subject.
Rotate the front ring of the filter to adjust the angle of the light rays.

Adjustable Cross Angle by Rotating the Front Ring

By rotating the front ring (rotating frame), you can freely change the angle of the cross. You can adjust it to your preferred angle while checking the balance between the subject and the light rays through the viewfinder or LCD monitor.

Adjusting Cross Angle Adjusting Cross Angle