Infrared photography is a unique and fascinating approach to capturing the world around us. Unlike traditional photography, infrared photography involves capturing light that is not visible to the naked eye. This creates a surreal and dreamy effect that can be used to capture a wide range of subjects. From landscapes to architecture and even people, infrared photography provides a creative and artistic way to explore the world around us.
To capture infrared images, specialized equipment and techniques are required. Most cameras need to be modified to capture infrared light, and specialized infrared filters are used to block visible light and allow infrared light to pass through. Infrared images also require careful post-processing to achieve the desired effect. Adjusting the contrast, exposure, and color balance is essential to creating a final image that accurately reflects the unique characteristics of infrared photography.
In this article, we will explore the world of creative infrared photography in more detail. We will provide tips and techniques for capturing stunning infrared images, including advice on equipment, subjects, shooting techniques, and post-processing. Whether you’re an experienced photographer looking to expand your creative horizons or a beginner just starting, this article will provide valuable insights into the exciting and fascinating world of infrared photography.
1. Understand the basics of infrared photography
Infrared photography involves capturing light that is not visible to the naked eye. Most digital cameras are not capable of capturing infrared light, which means that specialized equipment and techniques are required. Infrared light has a longer wavelength than visible light, which means that it is absorbed differently by different materials. This creates a surreal and dreamy effect that can be used to capture a wide range of subjects.
2. Modify your camera for infrared photography
If you’re using a digital camera, it will most likely need to be modified to capture infrared light. The infrared-blocking filter that is typically found in front of the camera’s sensor needs to be removed or replaced with a specialized infrared filter. This allows infrared light to pass through and be captured by the camera’s sensor.
3. Use specialized infrared filters
Specialized infrared filters are used to block visible light and allow infrared light to pass through. These filters are available in different strengths, which allows you to control the amount of infrared light that is captured by the camera. Some filters only allow a small amount of infrared light to pass through, while others allow more infrared light to be captured.
4. Choose the right subjects
Infrared photography can be used to capture a wide range of subjects, but some subjects work better than others. Trees, foliage, and other vegetation are particularly well-suited for infrared photography. The chlorophyll in plants reflects infrared light, which gives them a bright, white appearance in infrared images. This creates a unique, surreal effect that can be stunning when captured correctly.
Other subjects that work well for infrared photography include landscapes, architecture, and people. Infrared images of landscapes and architecture can have a dreamy, otherworldly feel, while infrared portraits can create a haunting, ethereal effect.
5. Shoot in raw
When shooting infrared images, it is essential to shoot in raw format. Raw files contain more information than JPEG files, which allows for greater flexibility in post-processing. Infrared images often require significant adjustments in post-processing, and shooting in raw provides the most flexibility to make those adjustments.
Infrared images also tend to have a reddish or magenta color cast that needs to be corrected in post-processing. Shooting in raw allows for greater control over color adjustments and helps to create a more natural-looking final image.
6. Use long exposure times
Infrared light has a longer wavelength than visible light, which means it can pass through some materials that visible light cannot. This property makes it possible to capture unique images by using long exposure times. For example, water reflects infrared light differently than visible light, which can create a beautiful, ethereal effect in infrared images of waterfalls or oceans.
Long exposure times also allow for greater flexibility in adjusting the contrast of infrared images. By using a long exposure, you can capture more infrared light, which creates a wider range of tones in the final image. This makes it possible to create images with greater contrast and drama.
7. Experiment with white balance
Infrared images have a unique color palette that can be adjusted in post-processing. One way to control the color of an infrared image is to adjust the white balance. Infrared images have a strong red or magenta color cast, but adjusting the white balance can create a more natural-looking final image.
Experimenting with white balance can also create unique effects. For example, setting the white balance to a cooler temperature can create a blue or cyan effect, while setting it to a warmer temperature can create a yellow or orange effect.
8. Experiment with exposure settings
Infrared photography requires different exposure settings than traditional photography. Infrared light is absorbed differently by different materials, which means that the exposure settings will vary depending on the subject and the lighting conditions. Experiment with different exposure settings to find the right balance between capturing enough detail and creating the desired infrared effect.
9. Consider shooting in black and white
Infrared images can be converted to black and white to create a more dramatic and artistic effect. Black and white images can also help to emphasize the texture and detail in the image, which is often more pronounced in infrared images.
10. Post-process with care
Infrared images require careful post-processing to achieve the desired effect. Infrared images often have a high degree of contrast, which can lead to blown-out highlights and blocked shadows. Careful adjustment of the contrast and exposure can help to create a more balanced final image.
Infrared photography offers a unique and creative way to explore the world around us. By capturing light that is not visible to the naked eye, infrared photography creates a surreal and dreamy effect that can be used to capture a wide range of subjects. From landscapes to people and everything in between, infrared photography offers endless possibilities for creative expression.
More surreal than real
Infrared photography offers a unique and creative way to explore the world around us. By capturing light that is not visible to the naked eye, infrared photography creates a surreal and dreamy effect that can be used to capture a wide range of subjects. From landscapes to people and everything in between, infrared photography offers endless possibilities for creative expression.
With the right equipment, subjects, and techniques, anyone can explore the world of creative infrared photography. Whether you’re an experienced photographer looking for a new challenge or a beginner just starting, the tips and techniques we’ve explored in this article can help you capture stunning infrared images that reflect your unique creative vision. So grab your camera, experiment with different techniques and subjects, and let your imagination run wild as you explore the fascinating world of infrared photography.
Cover photo by Jr Korpa.