Photo Technique Exploration: Infrared Photography

Michiel Alleman

David Mc Elwee

What Is Infrared Photography?

Infrared (IR) photography captures light beyond the visible spectrum—specifically, infrared wavelengths. Regular cameras block most of this light, but with the right setup, you can create surreal, high-contrast images that look like they’re from another planet.

How to Shoot Infrared Photos

Use an Infrared Filter/a Converted Camera

• IR Filters (like the Hoya R72) block visible light and only let infrared light through. These work on most cameras but require long exposures since so little light gets in.

• Converted IR Cameras: Some cameras can be modified to remove the IR-blocking filter, allowing you to shoot infrared without long exposures.

Shoot in Bright Sunlight

• Infrared works best in midday sunlight, when there’s a ton of IR light bouncing around.

• Green foliage reflects IR light, making trees and grass turn white or glowing.

• Blue skies absorb IR, making them look dark blue/black.

Use Manual Focus

• Most cameras struggle with autofocus in infrared, so switch to manual focus.

• Some lenses produce "hot spots" (weird bright spots in the center), so test different ones, gotta get a little lucky.

Adjust Your Camera Settings

• Shoot in RAW (as always) for maximum flexibility.

• Use long exposures (if using an IR filter)—start at 10-30 seconds and adjust as needed.

• Set a custom white balance (point your camera at grass/leaves and set it as the reference).

Edit for the Best Results

• IR photos come out looking red/magenta—fix this (or not) in post-processing.

• Swap the red and blue channels in Photoshop to turn skies blue and foliage white (the classic IR look) or leave it magenta, also an incredible look in my opinion.

• Play a little with contrast and sharpness to enhance the dreamlike quality.