Information: learn about IR photography
Capturing the invisible spectrum: FAQ
Discover essential insights and expert tips on infrared photography to enhance your creative journey.
What makes infrared photography unique compared to traditional photography?
Infrared photography captures light beyond the visible spectrum, revealing unseen details and surreal colours. Unlike regular photography, this form captures images using mostly or entirely invisible ‘light.’
It is best shot with a converted camera (one with no ‘hot mirror’ filter blocking all but visible light) and some form of IR filter.
Can infrared techniques be applied to both street and landscape photography?
Yes, infrared imaging offers stunning effects in settings ranging from urban street photography to landscape scenes. There are multiple unique technical challenges, but that is part of the fun!
What equipment is recommended for beginners in infrared photography?
A mirrorless camera with a ‘full spectrum’ conversion (which removes the ‘hot mirror’ filter that blocks all but visible light) plus an an IR filter (or converted with a permanent IR ‘clip’ sensor filter) is ideal for exploring infrared imaging.
How can I process infrared photos to bring out their best qualities?
Post-processing infrared photos is essential. This involves colour correction and contrast adjustments to make the most of infrared’s unique aesthetics.
Capturing the invisible spectrum: guides
Find clear, detailed answers to your questions about infrared photography techniques and equipment.
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Basic monochrome IR processing tricks
This is for both Adobe Camera Raw and working in Photoshop as well, via the Camera Raw controls found in Filters > Camera Raw. Shooting…
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Advanced false-colour IR processing tricks
When you shoot using the ‘colour IR’ range of filters (550-665nm) you can go far beyond the classic red/blue channel swap. Here are some advanced tricks that…
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Basic false-colour IR processing tricks
These are the foundational tricks that most IR shooters start with. They are quick and repeatable, and they don’t require diving deep into LAB colour or double-processing…
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Infrared photography science
What infrared actually means in photography: In physics, infrared (IR) simply refers to electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths longer than visible red light. The visible spectrum runs from roughly 400-700 nm,…
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Choosing the Right Gear for Infrared Photography
The biggest challenge when starting out with IR photography is choosing the right kind of camera and the right kind of IR modification. If at…