Starting with Infra-Red Photography Part 4 – Using IR filters

I was a little disappointed with the B&W results of using the camera ‘full spectrum’ (this means it is open to all wavelengths of light from the near infra-red, through the visible range to the near ultra-violet). I purchased a set of infra-red transmission filters for 4 different wavelengths – these pass a narrow band of IR light. This has made quite a difference as you can see below:

First the full spectrum image:

Full spectrum IR image
Out of the camera IR filtered images

The wavelengths of each filter are: 720nm, 760nm, 850nm, 950nm.

In the following images I have converted them to B&W using similar settings – I couldn’t do the same settings as the exposures are different:

Full spectrum – no IR filter
720nm
760nm
850nm
950nm

As you can see, the green foliage is lighter with the filters compared to the unfiltered full spectrum. Although the main image is a tree with others to the side, I suspect they are showing lighter shades because the leaf buds are growing (these often show as dark red to the eye). Below is a ‘normal’ photograph taken a few days ago – the trees are darker, no lighter shades. The taking condition is similar – blue sky some light white clouds with bright winter sun:

This is proving to be an interesting exercise – I am learning a lot…

Author: Paul L.G. Morris

I am an amateur photographer whose photography is mostly of gardens, nature and the rural environment. My specialities are close-ups, panoramic views, or a combination of both that I call 'Nearscapes'. I work mostly for my own interest having closed my business PM Studios Ltd.