Filter transmittance refers to the percentage of light that is able to pass through the filter. For ND filters and polarizing filters, this property is crucial because it determines how much light will be on the camera's sensor and how it will affect the overall exposure of the photo. Higher transmittance means more light and a brighter image, while lower transmittance leads to darker results. This is important for photographers who work in a variety of lighting conditions and need to maintain a consistent exposure.