1. Understanding the Basics of Infrared Photography
* What is Infrared? Infrared light is outside the visible spectrum, with wavelengths longer than red light. Our eyes can't see it, but specialized sensors can.
* Why Convert a Camera? Regular digital cameras have filters that block most IR light. Converting a camera involves removing this filter and replacing it (or not) with a filter that *allows* IR light to pass through.
* The IR Effect: In landscape photography, IR light interacts with foliage differently. Chlorophyll (the green pigment in plants) reflects a lot of IR, making leaves appear bright white (or very light gray) in the final black and white image. Skies also tend to darken dramatically, and clouds pop.
2. Types of Camera Conversions
* Full Spectrum Conversion:
* What it is: The original IR-blocking filter is completely removed, and replaced with a clear glass filter, or nothing at all.
* Pros: Versatile! You can attach different IR filters in front of the lens to experiment with different IR wavelengths (more on filters below). You can also use it for normal visible light photography with the appropriate filters.
* Cons: Requires external filters for IR work. Can be more susceptible to hot spots (brightness variations in the image, often caused by lens design).
* Dedicated IR Conversion:
* What it is: The IR-blocking filter is replaced with a specific IR pass filter (e.g., 720nm, 850nm, 590nm). This filter lets only IR light above the specified wavelength reach the sensor.
* Pros: More convenient than full spectrum, as the filter is already built-in. The most common choice for dedicated IR photography.
* Cons: Less flexible than full spectrum. The fixed filter limits the range of IR wavelengths you can capture.
* Wavelength Choice (for dedicated IR conversions):
* 720nm: A good starting point. Produces the classic "wood effect" (white foliage). Some color information is still present, so you can experiment with false color IR. Easier to use than higher wavelengths.
* 850nm: More purely IR. Provides a more dramatic and surreal effect. Almost no visible light. Can be harder to focus and requires longer exposures.
* 590nm: Often used for "false-color" IR. Allows more visible light to enter, leading to unique color possibilities.
* Consider: Think about the aesthetic you want to achieve. Research images taken with different wavelengths to get a feel for their characteristics. 720nm is generally considered the most versatile.
3. Choosing a Camera to Convert
* Used Cameras are Ideal: Converting a camera voids the warranty, so it's best to use a used body that you're willing to dedicate to IR photography.
* Sensor Size: Crop sensor (APS-C) or full-frame cameras can both be used. Full-frame sensors generally have better low-light performance, which can be helpful in IR photography.
* Megapixel Count: A camera with at least 12 megapixels is recommended for good image quality.
* Live View is Essential: Since you can't see IR light, Live View on the camera is crucial for focusing and composing your shots.
* Mirrorless Cameras: Generally better due to their electronic viewfinders (EVFs) providing real-time previews of the IR image and are more likely to provide accurate focus.
* DSLR Cameras: Can be used but focusing can be more difficult. Some will struggle to auto-focus reliably with IR filters.
* Avoid Cameras with On-Sensor Stabilization: Can sometimes cause artifacts in IR images (though this is not always the case).
4. The Conversion Process (Important: Consider Professional Conversion)
* DIY vs. Professional Conversion: Converting a camera yourself is technically possible, but it's very delicate and requires specialized tools, a clean environment, and a high level of technical skill. *I highly recommend having it done by a professional conversion service.*
* Professional Services: Companies specialize in camera conversions. They have the expertise and equipment to do the job safely and effectively. Search online for "camera infrared conversion services." Popular options include:
* Lifepixel
* Kolari Vision
* Cost: Conversions can range from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the camera model and the type of conversion.
* The Process: Typically involves carefully disassembling the camera, removing the original IR-blocking filter, and installing the replacement filter (if it's a dedicated conversion) or leaving the sensor exposed (if it's a full spectrum conversion).
5. Post-Conversion: Lenses, Focusing, and Exposure
* Lens Compatibility: Most lenses can be used for IR photography, but some may exhibit "hot spots" (a bright area in the center of the image). Wide-angle lenses are often more prone to hot spots. Test your lenses after conversion to see how they perform.
* Focusing:
* Live View is Key: Use Live View to focus. Zoom in on a detailed area to ensure sharpness.
* Manual Focus: Often necessary, especially with dedicated IR conversions. Auto-focus may struggle or fail.
* Focus Shift: IR light bends differently than visible light, so the point of focus might be slightly different. Experiment to find the best focus point for your lens. Some lenses have an IR focus mark.
* Exposure:
* Metering: The camera's meter might not be accurate with IR light. Experiment with different exposure settings and use your histogram to ensure proper exposure.
* Sunny Days are Best: Infrared photography works best in bright sunlight, as there is more infrared light available.
* Aperture: Aperture affects depth of field. Experiment to find the optimal settings for your creative vision.
* Shutter Speed: May need to be longer than usual due to the reduced light reaching the sensor. Use a tripod to avoid blur.
* ISO: Keep ISO as low as possible to minimize noise.
* White Balance: The white balance will be wildly off. Set a custom white balance based on foliage for a good starting point, but you'll likely be working with the RAW files to get the look you're after.
6. Post-Processing
* Shooting in RAW: Always shoot in RAW format to preserve the maximum amount of data and flexibility for post-processing.
* White Balance Correction: Adjust the white balance in your RAW editor to get a more natural look. Experiment with different white balance settings to achieve different effects.
* Channel Mixer: This is where the magic happens. Using the channel mixer in Photoshop (or similar software) allows you to swap the red and blue channels. This gives you the classic IR look with bright foliage and dark skies.
* Black and White Conversion: Convert the image to black and white using your preferred method (e.g., using a black and white adjustment layer in Photoshop).
* Contrast and Clarity Adjustments: Fine-tune the contrast and clarity to enhance the details and create a dramatic look.
* Dodging and Burning: Use dodging and burning to selectively lighten or darken areas of the image to guide the viewer's eye and create a more compelling composition.
* Sharpening: Sharpen the image to enhance the details.
* Noise Reduction: Apply noise reduction if necessary, especially if you shot at a high ISO.
7. Tips for Black and White IR Landscape Photography
* Composition: Apply the same principles of good composition as you would for regular landscape photography. Look for leading lines, strong shapes, and interesting textures.
* Weather: Clouds look fantastic in IR images due to their contrast against the dark sky.
* Subjects:
* Foliage: Trees, grass, and other plants are key subjects in IR landscape photography.
* Water: Water can appear very dark or reflective in IR images.
* Sky: Expect dark skies and dramatic clouds.
* Architecture: Buildings can have a stark, ethereal look in IR.
* Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with different settings and techniques to find your own unique style.
In Summary:
Converting a camera for infrared photography is a significant investment, but it can open up a whole new world of creative possibilities for black and white landscape photography. Be patient, experiment, and enjoy the process of discovering the hidden world of infrared light. Start with a 720nm conversion as it's the most versatile, and consider a professional conversion service to ensure the best results. Good luck!