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Infrared photography
by Jonas Förste
Unseen infrared light can be likened to radiation, something we don't see but feel, such as heat on our skin in the summer sun.
Digital camera sensors record more light than humans can see. When using an infrared filter, it captures infrared “radiation” and makes it visible to the eye. Normal light is blocked and infrared light passes through the filter.
Basic equipment for IR photography
Your camera should accept filters, either by attaching one directly to the lens or using a lens adapter.
Depending on your camera, you may need a tripod. Long exposure times are generally required for IR photography so hand-holding a camera isn't recommended.
Since an IR filters blocks all visible light, you won't be able to see a thing when the filter is attached to the lens. First mount your camera on a tripod, next compose your photo and then attach the filter.
Digital camera settings for infrared photography
If you don't make any camera adjustments when using an IR filter, images will be completely red. To get some of cool looking color effects, adjust the white balance setting. After attaching the filter, point the camera on sunlit green grass or a piece of white paper to take a manual white balance reading, and then take the shot.
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Don’t totally judge IR photos by reviewing them on the camera LCD as they may appear flat or dark. Images will look better when viewed on a computer monitor and can be tweaked when edited.
It's important to note that most digital cameras have a built-in infrared blocking filter that blocks the infrared light you want to capture. The built-in filter varies from camera to camera so some may produce strange colors.
Infrared photography - Part 2 >
