The MUST have Gear for Infrared Photography
Infrared photography opens a brand-new, unique way to capture the world around you. To get started with this, having the right gear is essential. This post will explore the must-have equipment that will not only enhance your infrared photography experience but also help you achieve extraordinary results. From cameras and lenses to filters and accessories, here’s a closer look at the gear that will set you on the path to capturing these otherworldly images.
If you want to check out an overview of what infrared photography is and how it works, you can check out my overview of infrared photography here.
I must admit that infrared photography generally does require very specific purpose-made gear; however, if that isn't an option right now, I will be coming out with a method to get around having to dissect a shiny new camera shortly, but know it is possible!
The Camera:
Arguably the most important part of your photography kit is the camera, since without it, you’ll have a lump of expensive glass. The best way to capture infrared images is with a dedicated converted camera. Conversion involves removing the internal infrared-blocking filter and replacing it with either a small protective piece of glass (full spectrum) or one that allows infrared light to pass through. The conversion process can be done by a dedicated camera shop (the route I went) or DIY if you’re confident with incredibly delicate electronics.
Keep in mind that a converted camera becomes dedicated to infrared, meaning it will no longer capture standard visible light images (well, technically, but more on that later).
Mirrorless vs DSLR vs Point-and-Shoot: Full-Frame mirrorless cameras are often the top choice for conversions due to their electronic viewfinders, which allow you to see the infrared effect in real time without compromising on image quality . DSLRs can also be converted and also offer excellent image quality, but composing shots may be more challenging since the optical viewfinder doesn’t display the infrared effect, and when using higher wavelength filters, it will be impossible to look through the camera. Point-and-shoot cameras, while less flexible, are a cost-effective option for those just starting out or looking for portability.
This conversation can get a lot more complicated when we introduce the topic of types of sensors found in digital cameras, the colour science of different camera manufacturers and more technical side of the sensor however this is a little out of the scope of this article, perhaps in a future deep dive.
My personal choice was a professionally converted Nikon Z6II. I managed to pick it up used with a very low shutter count in very good condition. It is a full-frame sensor with all the modern features you need from a mirrorless camera. I opted for a full-spectrum conversion with the addition of external screw-in filters, knowing I would be giving up some image quality for convenience, though it is worth noting that I often print my work at A1 and larger and never had an issue with optical quality that prevented me from printing.
Lenses: Finding the Right Fit
Not all lenses perform equally well for infrared photography. Some lenses are prone to "hot spots," which are bright circular artifacts caused by internal reflections. Generally speaking, middle-of-the-range lenses will tend to be better; this is very counterintuitive coming from the normal digital photography world where expensive generally means better. More expensive lenses tend to have more complex and innovative coatings that very precisely control the reflections and focusing of visible light rays the complete opposite of what we need.
Just like any other lens purchase, research before buying. There are many resources that have been established for comparing infrared compatibility of lenses. I have put two of my favorite resources below:
NIKON INFRARED LENS PERFORMANCE CHART from Jason Odell
As a fellow Nikon shooter this has been my favorite resource for checking Z mount lenses, with a clear rating and a good Notes section, it is a very valuable resource.
Kolari’s Lens hotspot database:
Kolari offers a very wide range of products and services centered around infrared, from filters to converted cameras to conversion services. They also have the lens hotspot database which they have compiled a large list of lenses into Good and Poor performance.
My go to choice of lens for my camera is the 28-75 f/2.8, which I believe is made by Tamron, I have the same lens for my Sony A7R system and hated it but on the IR 24MP sensor it has taken nearly all of my favorite images.
Filters
If you have a full spectrum camera you’re going to need a filter or three. These filters block visible light while allowing infrared light to pass through.
A few options include:
590nm Filters: For a more dramatic look with false-color possibilities. This filter lets in more visible light, enabling vibrant and surreal colors in post-processing.
850nm Filters: Ideal for pure black-and-white infrared photography. These filters provide high contrast and eliminate almost all visible light.
Chrome IR Filters: These filters are designed to mimic the look of Kodak Aerochrome film, turning foliage into vibrant shades of red and magenta while maintaining natural tones in other elements of the image
Some of my other favorites are the 720 and 630nm. Perhaps a full write up and comparison of filters should be high on my priority list.
My other recommendation for filters is to but the biggest size you can in addition to a good set of step up rings, especially if you plan on getting multiple lenses.a
A Word of Encouragement
I must admit that infrared photography generally does require very specific, purpose-made gear. However, if that isn’t an option right now, stay tuned—I’ll be coming out with a method to get around this. It’s possible to dip your toes into infrared without breaking the bank or voiding warranties.
Infrared photography is a fascinating journey into an unseen world. With the right gear and a bit of patience, you can capture images that are truly out of this world. So, gear up and start exploring the surreal beauty of infrared light—it’s a perspective like no other.