Using Infrared Filters vs. Converted Digital Cameras
Shooting Infrared Images requires you to have a camera at hand. You can either go for an unconverted digital camera and use an Infrared Filter (Eg. Hoya R72); or shoot with a converted camera for IR.
FILTERS
Many infrared photographers use filters as converting a camera can be a little pricey. The most popular is the Hoya R72 Infrared filter. Using a lens filter will require you to use a tripod as capture time may be proven to be longer than normal. I currently use a Nikon system and based on experience, infrared lens filters work well with older cameras (such as the Nikon D70, D70s, D40) as these cameras have 'weaker' infra cut-off filters inside them which makes them great for infrared photography. Filters also work pretty well with Nikon D200, D300, D300s and D700. These filters may also work with other newer models but might take longer exposure times and therefore may not be always ideal. A great lens to use for infrared is the Nikkor 18-55 kitlens (VR or non VR model). These are the cheap plastic lenses that comes with most DX format cameras in the Nikon end. The Nikkor 12-24 wide angle DX lens also works as well as the newer Nikkor 10-24 Dx. The Sigma 10-24 proves to be a cheaper alternative to this. For FX format (Nikon D700), the Nikkor 20mm f/2.8 lens is a good lens to start with.
Advantages of using filters:
1. You can save on money from converting your camera and you can always use your camera for other purposes aside from infrared photography.
2. You get dynamic landscapes and scenes due to the delayed exposure (eg. streaking clouds and moving waves or water).
1. You can save on money from converting your camera and you can always use your camera for other purposes aside from infrared photography.
2. You get dynamic landscapes and scenes due to the delayed exposure (eg. streaking clouds and moving waves or water).
Disadvantages:
1. Longer exposure times and a strong sunlight is needed to capture great images. (Ideal time to shoot infrared images would be at midday-anytime from 11:30 am to 1pm- when the sun is up and really hot. Be wary of burning your skin).
2. Filters do not work for all models of cameras and lenses.
1. Longer exposure times and a strong sunlight is needed to capture great images. (Ideal time to shoot infrared images would be at midday-anytime from 11:30 am to 1pm- when the sun is up and really hot. Be wary of burning your skin).
2. Filters do not work for all models of cameras and lenses.
Camiguin Island (2011). Taken using a Nikon D70s, 11-16 Tokina lens and R72 Infrared Hoya filter. Take note that the 11-16 Tokina lens may not be always ideal for using with infrared filters. A Nikkor 18-55 kit lens would have more superb results even more if you wish to come out with false color images.
CONVERTED CAMERAS
The other way of shooting infrared images is by use of converted cameras. Shooting with a converted camera is a lot easier but you have to customize your camera by removing the in-camera cut-off filter and replacing it with an infrared sensitive infra filter. There are many companies doing this for a fee. Using a converted camera would not require you to expose images for longer periods but would allow you to use your camera “just as if there were no filters attached to the lens”. Shooting outside the midday hours can also be possible when using these cameras.
Advantages:
1. Easier shooting
2. You may shoot before, during and after midday as long as the sun is up.
1. Easier shooting
2. You may shoot before, during and after midday as long as the sun is up.
Disadvantages:
1. No streaking clouds or moving water (not so dynamic).
2. Bit expensive for the fact that you will have to convert and would not be able to use your converted camera for purposes other than infrared photography.
Mt. Pinatubo, (2011). Taken with a converted Nikon D70 and a 20mm lens processed in Photoshop
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