I don't pretend to know exactly how infrared photography works- other than the scientific articles I read on the web-something about color wavelengths. I do know the results can be very cool and dreamlike.
I prefer B&W infrared photos, they can be shot in color too, but I've seen very few that I have liked. The colors are just too garish for my taste.
Here are the basic tips for shooting digital infrared photos:
I used a Hoya infrared filter for these photos on my Nikon DSLR.
The camera was set on "black & white".
Using a tripod is necessary because of the long exposure times-I think these were around 30 seconds. I was also using a cable release in order to not shake the camera.
I recommend an aperture of f-8 or above, because focusing can be tricky.
The camera was on "Manual" focus. Here's the interesting thing-you have to focus and compose the image in your camera first -THEN attach the infrared filter before shooting. Once the filter is on you can no longer see what you are photographing in the viewfinder.
Of course the great thing is you can see the results immediately and make exposure adjustments.
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I have always wanted to try IR photography on a film camera, the one issue I keep running across is there is an IR blocking filter on the front of most sensors for digital cameras. There are multiple "hacks" to remove this filter in front of the sensor, but it involves basically ripping apart the camera and putting it back together again.
Did they eliminate the IR blocking filter on your camera's sensor?
Good point Rick-I know about converting a camera that way, but then it will shoot ONLY infrared. I would love to do that someday when I have an extra camera! I didn't modify my camera at all-using the infrared filter seems to work fine in getting the effect. I have a better example on a past post - click the "infrared photography" category to see it. There's also a film of a photographer using a converted camera like you are talking about.
I may have to go buy an IR filter now. I was going to convert my Canon D60 to shoot IR, but it was stolen before I had a chance to buy the replacement for it. Now I just have the one camera again and I cannot justify doing the modification to it just yet. Holding out for a 5D MkII or whatever the latest is :)
If you get an IR filter I'd like to see the results.
Just picked up an IR filter. Now just have to wait for a bit of sun, my tripod isn't that good for a long exposure shot.
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