ND filter & Lens Shield Application Instructions

** Instructions for stick-on filters and shields **

If you need instructions for the GoPro Hero 8 replacement lenses, go here.

To avoid problems with filters possibly not sticking, Please check troubleshooting in the FAQ before you apply the filter.

To avoid breaking your brand new filter, we highly suggest that you use a mount with little "tabs" that stick out to protect the lens and camera similar to this one.  These little tabs make a HUGE difference.

ND Filter and lens protector application instructions

  1. Thoroughly clean GoPro lens with the included wet then dry wipes or a microfiber cloth and 99% isopropyl alcohol. Remove any other coated lens protector as they may reduce the effectiveness of the adhesive.  Make sure that the camera lens is free of dust.
  2. Remove the backing from the adhesive around the edges. Make sure that you’re only removing the clear plastic backing on the adhesive (on some models the backing has a little tab to pull on), not the black adhesive itself.
  3. Do not touch the back of the glass (grab it by the edges).
  4. Stick the filter or Lens Shield on the lens. If it isn’t straight, you can always carefully remove it and reposition.
  5. Give it a firm push around the very edges (don’t push in the center or you could break it!) to make sure it’s stuck on properly, and finally remove the protective plastic from the front of the filter.

When attached to the camera, periodically clean the filter with a soft cloth.  Make sure there are no fingerprints as they can distort the image.  The glass is multicoated to resist water and oil, which makes them easier to clean than regular glass.

Side mounts: If you have a TPU mount that opens from the side, it may be difficult to get the camera in with the filter or lens protector attached.  If so, put the camera in without the filter or protector and then put it on from the front with the camera in the mount.  If it doesn’t fit from the front, you may need to trim some TPU off to make it fit.  Be sure that the TPU is not touching the filter.

Removal and re-applying:

  1. Use your fingernail to pull the filter or protector off the camera.
  2. If adhesive comes unstuck from the filter or protector and stays on the camera lens, use your fingernail to lift it and stick the adhesive back on while you are removing the glass filter/protector. If the glass comes off completely with the adhesive left behind on the lens, just pull the adhesive off and carefully stick it back on the glass, making sure the edges are aligned. Both sides of the adhesive are identical, but remember what side of the glass it was on, as they are different and the adhesive will not stick properly to the other side (the non-adhesive side of the glass can sometimes  have a colored tint).  TIP: If you are having trouble aligning the adhesive on the glass, it may be easier for you to apply the adhesive to the camera first, then apply the glass to the adhesive.
  3. Stick the filter/protector to something clean (such as the inside of the plastic box it came in) for storage.
  4. Reapply using the same method you initially used.

 Refreshing the adhesive:  The adhesive is a re-usable custom-made adhesive.  If it gets dirty, you can wash it under tapwater (and dish soap if water doesn’t work). You can do this while the adhesive is still on the product, or you can remove it if it’s easier for you (REMEMBER what side of the glass it was one, its important as it may not stick to the other side properly!) Some of the filters have a colored tint to the non-adhesive side.  You can also buy replacement adhesive squares at www.CameraButter.com.

Cleaning the glass: If you need to clean the glass, use a soft cloth, or if that doesn’t work, use tapwater and a small amount of dish soap if needed (Don’t use isopropyl alcohol – it can damage the coatings).