Supernova I vs Supernova II: Which Ghosting Filter Should You Choose?

The main difference between Supernova I and Supernova II is where the ghosting appears. Supernova I creates a single-sided effect; Supernova II creates ghosting on both sides of the frame. Both bring optical duplication and a sense of motion to photographs and video. Your choice starts with the kind of composition you want to build.

If you imagine a subject with repetition extending mainly in one direction, start with Supernova I. If you want ghosted outlines surrounding the subject, consider Supernova II. Neither choice determines the entire look: lighting, lens settings and filter orientation still shape the result.

Supernova I vs Supernova II at a Glance

The table describes the two optical arrangements. It does not mean that one model belongs to a particular genre or that every Supernova II image will look more intense than every Supernova I image. Both leave room for experimentation.

Single-Sided vs Double-Sided Ghosting

With Supernova I, one-sided repetition can introduce a direction through the photograph. You might place a face beside a ghosted profile or let light streak away from a performer. Think about where the viewer enters the image and how the effect carries their attention.

Supernova II gives you ghosting on both sides to work into the composition. Repeated outlines can surround a central pose, creating a more layered arrangement. Give the main subject a clear role, then decide how much surrounding repetition supports it.

This is also why single-sided does not automatically mean subtle. Placement and visual intensity are different decisions. Preview the scene through the filter before deciding which version matches your idea.

Which Filter Should You Choose for Portraits?

Choose according to the relationship you want between the face and its repetition. The Supernova I studio portrait with a raised arm uses a pale background and a directional repeated outline. It offers a starting point when you want the pose to remain the anchor while the effect travels away from it.

The seated Supernova II portrait uses a black outfit and a white studio, with blurred figures around the subject. It suggests a different exercise: build a central pose and arrange the ghosted shapes around it. Keep the setting simple while you learn how that balance changes.

For a closer look at each approach, read our guides to Supernova I for creative portraits and Supernova II for photography and video.

Which Works Better for Weddings and Fashion?

Both can be used for expressive portraits. A useful way to choose is to describe the image before choosing the filter. Do you want a repeated outline beside the subject, or a composition that layers ghosted shapes around them?

In the Supernova I bridal example, the window and the bride's profile establish the portrait while streaking crosses the dress. For a wedding session, you could begin with the frame you need and then explore an optical interpretation of the same pose.

For a fashion concept built around a central silhouette and surrounding repetition, Supernova II may be the arrangement you want to explore. Check the garment details in live view: the repeated outline should contribute to the idea without hiding the feature the photograph needs to show.

Concert Photography and Music Videos

At a concert, the lighting and gesture already give you plenty to work with. In the orange-lit Supernova I photograph, streaks extend through the scene around the performer. The effect introduces a direction that you can consider alongside the microphone, pose and stage lights.

The Supernova II example with a singer in a green jacket takes a layered approach, with bands of light across the scene. It can inspire a performance image where repetition is a prominent visual element.

For a planned music video, test both approaches with the same short action. Compare a steady camera and a gentle move, then choose the take whose visual rhythm fits the performance. Gallery photographs show possibilities; a rehearsal shows what works with your lighting and lens.

What Do Both Filters Have in Common?

Both filters create their effects optically during capture and work with stills and video. You do not need a slow shutter speed simply to produce the ghosting. The look is inspired by long exposure, while your exposure settings remain a separate creative choice.

The threaded versions also share the RFL Infinity Ring™, allowing you to rotate the filter after mounting. Explore orientation, aperture and focal length with a consistent scene. Change one variable at a time so you can see what each adjustment contributes.

How to Make Your Final Choice

Sketch the composition. Decide where the recognisable subject should sit and where you want repetition. One-sided and two-sided ghosting give you different starting points.

Think about the background. A simple studio, a textured location and bright stage lights will give you different material to work with. Choose a filter for the scenes you are planning.

Check the format and size. Match a threaded option to your lens's filter-thread diameter. If you prefer a handheld format, review the selected product option before ordering.

Choose the effect you want to explore. You do not need both filters to begin. Pick the arrangement that fits your next session and learn how it responds to your setup.

Supernova I vs Supernova II FAQ

Is Supernova II an upgraded version of Supernova I?

The main distinction is the effect arrangement: single-sided ghosting with Supernova I and double-sided ghosting with Supernova II. Choose based on the composition you want.

Is Supernova I always more subtle?

No. A one-sided effect can still look pronounced. Lighting, lens settings and orientation influence the final appearance.

Can both filters be used for video?

Yes. Both are designed for photography and filmmaking, including creative portraits, performances and music videos.

Do I need to add the ghosting in editing?

No. The effect is captured through the filter. You can still edit colour, exposure and the rest of your image or footage afterwards.

Ready to choose your approach? Explore Supernova I for single-sided ghosting or Supernova II for double-sided ghosting.