IR Photography

[Auraomega]

IR is something I've been interested in for a while but lately I've been reading more about it and now I'm a bit unsure if I can even do it!

I'm in the process of buying a D300 but I've read that the filter is incredibly strong, if I use an R72 filter will this allow me to get good IR images or do I require a combination of R72 filter and camera with poor IR filtering? Would I be better served to go down the route of a film SLR and IR film? If film is the better option where can I buy IR film and where can I get film processing in the UK?

 

[hairboy]

With R72 type filter, you will need a tripod, need to pre-compose, pre-focus, work out the shutter speed for the filter, then stick the filter on, then shoot. They are notorious for flare is the sun is strong, and it's a very time consuming affair.

Just buy a IR converted DSLR, and shoot freely handheld. Much easier, and pleasurable experience. I have a super colour IR now, and love it.

 

[March Hare]

I don't know where you can get IR film anymore, the lack of availability is why I gave up using it. You do have the option of an IR converted digital slr - if you've got an old body you can get it converted, or you could look round for a secondhand body to reduce the cost. I think there are a couple of places in the UK that do conversions, ACS is one but try googling for others. It's about £300 to get it done. I'm saving up at the moment!

 

[Alastair]

It's best to do a Google for your camera body and intended lens combination for infrared photography.. many bodies and many lenses will work with the R72 filter, but some lenses may be prone to hot-spots. I use my R72 with a Sigma 30mm which is very prone to hot-spotting unless used carefully to minimise the effect.

 

[Superewza]

Black and White IR film is still easy to find, and can be processed in normal black and white chemicals. You can shoot with a filter which puts it down to something like ISO 9, or without which is something more reasonable but gives a different effect. Of course, this is just off the top of my head. I don't think there's any colour IR film still in production unfortunately.

http://www.firstcall-photographic.co.uk/products/1001/rollei-infrared-ir400-135-36-iso-400