Infrared Capture & Resolution

Posted on Apr 13, 2017

"In photography there is a reality so subtle that it becomes more real than reality."—Ansel Adams

One of the tips that I give to photographers interested in infrared photography is, instead of using filters, they should  convert one of their old cameras that's sitting around collecting dust to IR-only capture. The theory being that you're not using it so why not get a unique use from something that's probably not worth much anyway. Conversion probably adds to the value both as a camera and in real-world value when you decide to sell it.

I've always admired photographers who had the budget to get the very latest high-end cameras infrared converted in order to create the highest possible resolution images, at least until the next model comes along. But most of us don't have that kind of budget, so that's why I think my original suggestion is a good one.

One way I get around resolution anxiety is to shoot in RAW format. The above image was made using an old IR-converted camera, a Canon EOS D60—not a 60D. Lens for the above shot was a now-discontinued Tamron 11-18mm, now replaced by (even better) the SP 10-24MM f/3.5-4.5 Di II. Exposure was 1/90 sec at f/13 and ISO 400 and then converted to monochrome using Silver Efex Pro.

My book, The Complete Guide to Digital Infrared Photography is currently out-of-print but used copies are available from Amazon for under $6. Creative Digital Monochrome Effects has a chapter on IR photography and is available from Amazon with new copies under $6 and used copies less than three bucks. You can used copies of both for less than $10.

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