Infrared Photography Explained: How Camera Conversions Unlock A Hidden World

Infrared photography is the most fascinating and visually striking form of photography. It  almost feels like a visual trick. The trees are glowing, the sky turning an ink-black color, landscapes into dreamlike scenes. Infrared Photography works on a simple idea: the camera sees far more than your eyes. 

Infrared images feel otherworldly. This artistic magic is created by combining science and camera technology. The process is called camera conversions.

Let's understand what infrared photography is

The infrared spectrum covers electromagnetic wavelengths that are longer than visible light. The range detectable by the human eye is about 400 to 700 nanometers. Infrared starts just beyond 700 nanometers. We only see visible light. However, infrared photography captures images using light from the infrared spectrum, not just the visible range.

Infrared light is invisible to us. These photos look fantastical and strange. Of course, they are photos of the real world. That said, these are some of the things you can expect from infrared photos:

• Leaves and grass reflect a large amount of infrared light, which makes them appear bright white.
• The water surface appears darker and more dramatic.
• Buildings appear bright white.
• Clouds appear dark and moody.
• Skin appears smooth and soft in portraits, especially when paired with a clean photo backdrop to isolate the subject

How does it work?

Every digital camera sensor can detect a wide range of wavelengths including some infrared light. However, manufacturers intentionally block infrared from reaching the sensor.

Most cameras have an IR-cut filter (hot mirror). The IR filter ensures that only visible light reaches the sensor. As a result, your photos are accurate and natural-looking. Without this filter, images appear distorted. This is because infrared light interferes with color balance.

Because the IR cut filter blocks infrared light, capturing infrared images with a standard camera isn't possible. An infrared filter attachment to your lens won't solve this problem. In fact, only a small amount of infrared light passes through it. Additional attachment results in the following:

• The exposure time may increase sometimes to a few seconds.
• We get blur images in outdoor locations.
• It reduces image quality.
• We get a bright spot in the center of the image.
• Focus must be done manually.

The digital camera is modified to capture infrared light; this process of modification is called camera conversion.

Let's understand how the camera conversion is done

To modify your camera to capture infrared light, it is first carefully disassembled. The inbuilt IR-cut filter is then removed. Next, this IR cut filter is replaced with clear glass. At last, the camera is recalibrated. Now the camera is ready to capture infrared images, as infrared light reaches the sensor freely.

It improves the performance and usability of the camera.

Benefits of camera conversion

• We get unique and artistic images. Infrared photographs are dreamlike photos that stand out from standard photographs.
• It enhances landscape photography. Infrared photos feature an increased level of depth and contrast, which is difficult to achieve with a stand camera.
• We get clear images even though there is haze, dust, or pollution. Infrared light is less affected by atmospheric conditions.
• We don't need extra attachments for the camera. It directly allows easier focusing with a faster shutter speed.
• The conversion cameras have better autofocus. The exposure metering also becomes more accurate.
• These cameras are cost-efficient. They reduce the cost of additional filters. Plus they save time and reduce the cost of additional equipment.
• One of the most important benefits of a conversion camera is that it reduces the light sensitivity issue. We can work even in bright sunlight.

Types of infrared camera conversions

The type of filter or clear glass installed determines the style and flexibility of the photographs.

• Standard infrared conversion (720nm) is the most commonly used IR conversion. It blocks most of the visible light. This produces the classic IR look. It works well with both black and white light and false color photography.

• Color infrared conversion (590nm or 665nm) allows more visible light to enter. As a result it produces vibrant false color images . However, these requires more post processing.

• Full spectrum conversion completely removes the IR-cut filter, capturing deep infrared light. You need external filters to shoot different infrared wavelengths. This is the most flexible option but it requires more gears and effort.

• Deep infrared conversion (830nm+) captures mostly pure infrared light. This results in very high contrast with minimal color information. It is less flexible for color effects compared to 720nm.

• Astro/ H-alpha conversion is modified to capture specific wavelengths useful for astrophotography. It enhances nebulae and night sky objects detailing. Astro conversions are not used for standard landscape IR photography.

Here are the subjects for infrared photography:

• Landscapes: forest or park, mountain or countryside
• Architecture: buildings with strong contrast, historical buildings
• Portraits
• Skies and clouds
• Water bodies: lakes, riverside
• Street scenes: parks in the city, outdoor markets

Infrared photography vs thermal photography

People often get confused between thermal photography and infrared photography.

Infrared photography

• IR uses the near-infrared light.
• It requires the light source.
• IR makes artistic photos.
• Near infrared wavelength is used (700nm-1,000nm).
• Modified camera or conversion camera, or external filters are used to capture photographs.
• It is affordable, as you can convert your old camera.

Thermal photography

• It detects heat emitted by an object.
• Thermal photos can be made in complete darkness.
• It is used for medical, industrial, and security purposes.
• Mid to long infrared wavelengths are used (3,000nm-14,000nm).
• Dedicated thermal cameras are required. These are very expensive.
• It is very expensive to use specialized sensors.

Limitations and challenges of infrared photography

• Infrared conversion is a permanent modification. The camera becomes dedicated to infrared use.
• Conversions can be costly depending on the camera model.
• Infrared photography requires adjustment in exposure, white balance, and post-processing.
• A converted camera is not suitable for daily usage, as it is not suitable for regular color photographs.

Post-processing of infrared photographs

Editing plays a major role in achieving the final look. Software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop are commonly used for infrared images.

• Channel swapping: typically involves swapping the red and blue channels, which turns red IR images into surreal blue and white.
• Contrast and level adjustment: strong contrast is beneficial for IR images. The levels help in deepening the blacks.
• Sharpening: infrared images appear slightly soft. If we apply moderate sharpening to the image, the crispness is restored.
• Glow enhancement: it softens highlights while keeping the edges defined.

Is infrared photography really worth it?

If you are looking to expand your creativity, then infrared photography is worth exploring. Your understanding of light and texture improves. It can become the signature style for professionals.

Conclusion

Infrared photography is a doorway to a hidden world that exists around us but is invisible to the naked eye. Converting your camera unlock this door. Thus, you can capture this other side of reality.

Infrared photography provides endless opportunities for creativity. Don't just take the pictures. Create a whole new reality.

By understanding the infrared camera conversions and learning about them, you can transform your photography skills into something new and extraordinary.