Freewell Real Lens Hood, CPL Mist filter and Thumb grip

First impressions: finally, a complete X100VI solution

The Freewell Real Lens Hood is one of those rare accessories that feels like it was designed by someone who actually shoots the X100 series. Instead of being “just a hood” or “just a filter,” it’s a fully integrated system—combining:

A solid aluminium lens hood
A hybrid CPL + 1/4 Black Mist filter
A purpose-built lens cap

All in one unit.

That matters more than it sounds. The X100VI has always been slightly awkward when it comes to filters—adapter rings, third-party hoods, separate caps—it all adds friction. Freewell essentially removes that friction by consolidating everything into a single workflow.

Build quality & design

The first thing you notice is the CNC-machined aluminium construction. It feels premium, balanced, and—importantly—not too heavy for the compact body.

It mounts securely to the lens thread and, once aligned, stays put during long shooting sessions (something that older hood/filter combos often struggled with).

The standout design features:

Flip-down hood mechanism
External tab for CPL rotation (touchless)
Integrated filter housing
Dedicated lens cap

This isn’t gimmicky—it’s genuinely functional.

The real magic: workflow speed

1. Touchless CPL control

If you’ve ever used a polariser on the X100VI, you’ll know the pain: take hood off → adjust filter → put hood back on → miss the shot. Freewell solves that.

You rotate the CPL using a small external tab—no touching glass, no disassembly.

This is huge in real-world use:

Shooting reflections in shop windows in Lincoln
Cutting glare off wet streets after rain
Managing sky contrast along the Brayford waterfront

It becomes second nature—almost like adjusting exposure compensation.

2. Flip-down access

The flip mechanism is deceptively useful.

Need to:

Clean the filter? Flip.
Swap filters? Flip.
Quickly remove the mist look? Flip.

No unscrewing the whole setup mid-street. In fast-paced environments like London street photography, this is a lifesaver. You’re not fumbling while moments disappear.

Image quality: CPL + Black Mist combo

The included hybrid filter is where this kit really shines.

CPL performance

Cuts reflections from glass, water, and cars
Deepens skies
Adds punch to colours

Perfect for:

High-contrast scenes (glass buildings, buses, wet pavements)
Architectural shots around Lincoln

Black Mist (1/4)

Softens highlights
Adds halation to lights
Creates a subtle cinematic glow

This is especially noticeable at night:

Street lamps gain a soft bloom
Neon signs feel more atmospheric
Portraits look less clinical

The key is balance—it’s not overdone.

It’s not just convenience—it fundamentally changes how often you actually use filters.

Final verdict: who it’s for

If you:

Shoot street regularly
Use (or want to use) filters more often
Value speed and simplicity

This is arguably the best all-in-one filter solution for the X100VI right now. It’s not just an accessory—it changes how you shoot.

Freewell Thumb Grip Review

First impressions

The thumb grip is a much simpler product—but just as impactful in daily use. It slides into the hot shoe and adds a subtle but effective rear grip point, improving handling without adding bulk.

Handling & ergonomics

The X100VI is beautifully compact—but not the most secure one-handed camera. The thumb grip fixes that instantly:

Better one-handed shooting
More stability at slower shutter speeds
Increased confidence when shooting from the hip

For street photography, this is huge.

Real-world use

Build & design

Like the lens hood, it’s typically:

Metal construction
Colour-matched to the camera
Minimal and unobtrusive

It doesn’t ruin the aesthetic of the X100VI—which is important.

Downsides

Occupies the hot shoe (no flash or accessories)
Easy to forget it’s there—but that’s also a positive

Final verdict on the thumb grip

It’s a small upgrade with a big impact.

Not essential—but once you use it, you won’t want to shoot without it. Together, the Freewell Real Lens Hood + Thumb Grip turn the X100VI into something even more refined:

Faster shooting
More creative control
Better ergonomics

The lens hood system alone is enough to justify selling separate filters like the Shortstache—it simplifies everything while expanding capability.

Grab one yourself here - https://freewellgear.com/?sca_ref=10820606.Wi3zDnzvw1sFT

The best accessories for the Fuji X100VI