INFRARED PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography became interesting the moment i understood that you can take a picture of something that otherwise you would not be able to see. Not because you are disinclined or too distracted to notice, but because the subject is literally invisible. Examples are as limitless as one’s imagination: We cannot see what a balloon looks like the moment it pops, let’s say. A camera can.Infrared photography is intriguing for the same reason, because it too, makes the invisible observable, but in a unique way. Infrared photography makes the invisible observable, but in a unique way.

Characteristics of infrared photography….aside from the false colours
Elements of the image will sometimes appear to “glow” Surprising amount of detail and high resolution High contrast Ability to “see” through atmospheric haze.


Misconceptions
Cannot see in the dark… Cannot see through clothing I had given up infrared photography, as many others were forced to do, when Kodak stopped producing infrared black and white film several years ago. But now, I have had my “second” SLR digital camera modified so that it takes only infrared images and nothing else.


Differences between film and digital infrared photography
I am a bit intrigued by the results of that conversion, and all images on these pages, (except a couple) were made with this modified camera ( Canon 30D ). Infrared photography was much more complicated with film : the camera had to be loaded in total darkness, a red filter was needed over the lens that is so dark you have to focus first before attaching it, then carefully offset that focus, and a tripod was almost always necessary. Now I don’t even have to offset the focus anymore. I don’t need a tripod. The lens doesn't need a deep red filter.
These photos are here for you to enjoy or perhaps simply satisfy your curiosity. Reproductions are available.

portrait

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