1. Understanding the Basics of IR Photography:
* Infrared Light: IR light lies beyond the visible spectrum, so our eyes can't see it. Different materials reflect IR light differently than visible light. Vegetation, for example, reflects a lot of IR light, which is why it often appears bright white in IR photos.
* IR Filters: These block visible light, allowing only IR light to reach the sensor. The strength of the filter is measured in nanometers (nm). Common values are 720nm, 830nm, and 590nm.
* The "Wood Effect": This refers to the characteristic bright white foliage often seen in IR photos. It's most prominent with 720nm and 830nm filters.
2. Choosing a Camera for Conversion:
* Mirrorless Cameras are Preferred: They offer several advantages:
* Live View Focusing: IR light focuses differently than visible light. Mirrorless cameras allow you to see the live image effect on the screen or in the viewfinder and focus accordingly.
* Easy White Balance Adjustment: Essential for IR photography (see below).
* Smaller Size: Often beneficial for landscape photography.
* Avoid Older Cameras: Older cameras may have sensors with strong IR cut filters that are difficult to remove completely.
* Consider a Dedicated IR Camera: If you plan to do a lot of IR photography, converting a camera specifically for IR can save you time and frustration.
* Check for Known Issues: Some camera models are known to have issues with IR conversion (e.g., hot spots). Research your specific camera model before converting.
* Used Cameras: A great option since you'll have a dedicated camera and won't have to sacrifice your primary shooter.
3. Conversion Options:
* DIY Conversion (Advanced):
* Pros: Cheapest option.
* Cons: Extremely technical, requires specialized tools and knowledge, voids warranty, high risk of damaging your camera. Only recommended if you have electronics repair experience. Numerous guides and videos are available online, but proceed with extreme caution.
* Professional Conversion:
* Pros: Safe, reliable, professional results, often includes sensor cleaning and recalibration.
* Cons: More expensive.
* Where to Find Services: Search online for "infrared camera conversion services." Look for reputable companies with good reviews. Popular options include:
* Kolari Vision
* Life Pixel
* Spencer's Camera & Photo
* Types of Conversions:
* Full Spectrum: The original IR cut filter is completely removed and replaced with a clear glass filter. This allows the camera to capture the entire spectrum of light, including visible light, IR, and UV. Requires using screw-in filters to block visible light for IR photography. The most versatile option.
* Dedicated IR Filter Conversion: A specific IR filter (e.g., 720nm, 830nm) is permanently installed over the sensor. This provides the strongest IR effect but limits you to that single wavelength. A good choice if you know you only want to shoot with a specific IR filter.
* IR Chrome/Aerochrome Simulation: These conversions simulate the look of Kodak Aerochrome film, which produced vibrant false-color infrared images. Often involves using specific filters and post-processing techniques.
4. Equipment After Conversion:
* IR Filters:
* Screw-in Filters: Needed with a full-spectrum conversion to block visible light. Choose a filter with the desired wavelength (e.g., 720nm, 830nm, 590nm).
* Step-Up/Step-Down Rings: To use filters of different sizes than your lens.
* Lenses:
* Hotspots: Some lenses exhibit "hotspots" in IR photography, which are bright areas in the center of the image caused by internal reflections. Research your lenses to see if they are known to have this issue. Some are easily corrected in post-processing.
* Wide-Angle Lenses: Popular for landscape photography, and work well with IR.
* Prime Lenses: Often sharper and have fewer optical elements, which can reduce the chance of hotspots.
* Tripod: Essential for landscape photography, especially in IR, where longer exposures are often needed.
* Remote Shutter Release: Minimizes camera shake during long exposures.
5. Camera Settings:
* White Balance: Crucial for IR photography.
* Custom White Balance: The best method. Take a photo of green foliage in the scene (e.g., grass, leaves) and set that as your custom white balance. This helps the camera interpret the colors in the IR spectrum.
* Preset White Balance: Experiment with different presets (e.g., Cloudy, Shade) to see what works best.
* Metering: Your camera's meter may struggle with IR light.
* Exposure Compensation: You'll likely need to use exposure compensation (typically +1 to +3 stops) to brighten the image.
* Histogram: Use the histogram to ensure you're not clipping highlights or shadows.
* Aperture: Choose an aperture appropriate for the scene and desired depth of field.
* ISO: Keep ISO as low as possible to minimize noise.
* Shutter Speed: Will vary depending on the amount of IR light and the filter being used. Start with longer exposures and adjust as needed.
6. Composition and Shooting Tips:
* Look for Strong Subjects: Trees, clouds, and water work well in IR.
* Consider the Light: Midday sun can produce strong IR effects. Overcast days may require longer exposures.
* Experiment!: IR photography is all about experimentation. Try different filters, lenses, and compositions to find what works best for you.
7. Post-Processing:
* Black and White Conversion: Most IR photos are converted to black and white.
* Contrast and Tone Adjustments: Increase contrast and adjust tones to bring out the details in the image.
* Dodging and Burning: Use dodging and burning to selectively lighten or darken areas of the image.
* Sharpening: Sharpen the image to enhance detail.
* Hot Spot Correction: If your lens has a hotspot, use a cloning or healing tool to remove it.
* Channel Mixing (Optional): If shooting in color, channel mixing can produce interesting false-color effects or improve the black and white conversion.
In summary, converting a camera for IR black and white landscape photography is a rewarding but complex process. Start by researching your camera and lenses, choose a conversion method that suits your skill level and budget, and experiment with different settings and techniques. The unique look of IR photography can add a new dimension to your landscape photography portfolio.