Unlock Hidden Worlds: Turn Your Camera into an Infrared Photography Powerhouse

Key Facts

• Infrared photography captures light beyond the visible spectrum (usually ~700–1200nm), producing otherworldly images where colors and tones look nothing like normal vision canon.ge. Lush green foliage, for example, can appear ghostly white in IR photos – a striking “Wood Effect” caused by leaves reflecting infrared light kolarivision.com.
• Why it’s popular: IR photography opens up a surreal, dreamlike aesthetic that fascinates many artists and hobbyists. It allows photographers to “turn something very normal and everyday into something unique,” giving their work a strong creative identity canon.ge. Unlike regular color photography that depends on golden-hour light, infrared can yield dramatic results even at midday or in hazy conditions, with dark skies and penetrating detail that cut through atmospheric haze.
• Converting cameras to IR: Nearly any digital camera can be modified for infrared. The conversion involves removing or replacing the camera’s built-in IR-cut filter (which normally blocks infrared light) with a filter that passes IR light kolarivision.com. This can be done DIY or via professional services. DIY conversion is possible but risky – camera companies and technicians warn that “tampering with your camera will void your warranty” and even expose you to high voltage from the flash circuit lifepixel.com amateurphotographer.com. Most photographers opt for specialist conversion services (e.g. LifePixel, Kolari Vision, Spencer’s) to avoid damaging their gear.
• DIY vs professional IR conversion: Do-it-yourself saves money but requires skill and patience. It involves delicate disassembly (often hundreds of tiny screws) and sometimes focus calibration. Mistakes can ruin the sensor or autofocus – in fact, conversion experts report many DIYers break their cameras, often ending up paying more for repairs than a pro conversion would have cost lifepixel.com. Professional conversions, costing typically a few hundred dollars, provide peace of mind: the service handles the delicate sensor filter swap, focus adjustment, dust-free reassembly, and usually includes a warranty on the work petapixel.com. For most users, hiring a pro is the safer route, especially for expensive cameras.
• Popular cameras for IR: Photographers often give older DSLRs a second life by converting them to infrared. For example, nearly every model of Canon’s affordable Rebel series (SL1, SL2, T5i, T6i, T6s, T7i, T8i, etc.) has been successfully converted and “highly recommended” for IR work kaitphotography.com.au. Early Nikon DSLRs like the D70/D70s gained a cult following because their weaker internal IR filters allowed easier IR shooting kaitphotography.com.au. Mirrorless cameras are now the go-to choice for IR conversions: they focus directly via the imaging sensor, so no tricky focus adjustments are needed amateurphotographer.com. Models like the Sony A6000 (an older 24MP mirrorless) remain popular budget IR platforms kolarivision.com, and full-frame mirrorless bodies such as the Canon EOS RP or original Sony A7 are prized for their blend of image quality and reasonable cost on the used market kolarivision.com kolarivision.com. Even high-end flagships are being converted by enthusiasts – conversion specialists note that the latest full-frame cameras from Sony and Nikon deliver superb infrared performance in terms of resolution and low noise amateurphotographer.com. Compact cameras and point-and-shoots can be converted too: models like the Canon PowerShot G16 or Panasonic ZS100 offer RAW shooting and decent sensors in pocket form kolarivision.com. They’re a fun, affordable intro to IR, though their small sensors can be noisy and limit large print quality kolarivision.com.
• Pre-converted and dedicated IR cameras: If you prefer not to mess with conversions, it’s easy to buy a camera that’s already infrared-capable. Many specialty vendors sell used cameras that have been converted to IR or full-spectrum. (For instance, one shop lists a full-spectrum converted Canon RP mirrorless for about $1,200 kolarivision.com, and major used gear retailers even carry items like a Canon 5D Mark IV pre-converted for infrared keh.com.) Some services let you purchase a new camera with the conversion done to your specifications spencerscamera.com. Additionally, a few manufacturers have released purpose-built IR cameras for industry and research – for example, in 2025 Fujifilm announced special X-H2 IR (APS-C) and GFX100 II IR (medium format) models designed for forensic and cultural heritage imaging petapixel.com. These ditch the standard IR-cut filter and are “purpose-built… for forensics, scientific research, and cultural preservation” petapixel.com, though they’re restricted to qualified buyers. For the average photographer, sending a camera to a conversion company or buying a pre-modified unit are more accessible options petapixel.com.
• Applications of IR photography: Infrared isn’t just for surreal landscapes – it has a broad range of uses:
  • Fine Art and Creative Portraiture: IR’s dreamlike look (white foliage, dark skies) is beloved by fine art photographers. It can turn ordinary scenes into ethereal landscapes, and even portraits or wedding photos take on a soft, porcelain skin glow with blemishes diminished kolarivision.com. Iconic artists have used IR imagery for dramatic effect – e.g. musician Jimi Hendrix famously featured an infrared photo on an album cover in the 1960s en.wikipedia.org, cementing IR’s counterculture mystique.
  • Science and Environmental Monitoring: Infrared is a powerful scientific tool. In agriculture and ecology, IR images help assess plant health and vegetation density (healthy plants reflect more IR, so they appear brighter – this is the principle behind NDVI, a crop stress index) kolarivision.com. Environmental scientists use IR aerial photography to see through haze and detect camouflaged features kolarivision.com. Astronomers also modify cameras for IR to capture celestial objects – some stars and nebulae shine more in infrared or hydrogen-alpha wavelengths than in visible light kolarivision.com. NASA and observatories use infrared sensors to study the cosmos, since IR can pierce through interstellar dust clouds.
  • Forensics and Law Enforcement: Infrared can reveal evidence invisible to the eye. It’s employed to examine inks and documents (for example, seeing alterations or faded writing under IR), to detect counterfeit currency, and even to uncover gunshot residue or bloodstains that are camouflaged on dark fabrics. Police and forensic labs use IR-enabled cameras (or special IR lights and filters) to photograph such clues without destructive testing kolarivision.com petapixel.com. In art restoration, IR reflectography is used to peer beneath the top layers of paintings to see sketches or earlier paint layers, aiding authentication and conservation petapixel.com.
  • Surveillance and Night Vision: Most security cameras today leverage infrared for night vision. They are built with IR-sensitive sensors (or removable IR filters) and use arrays of IR LEDs to flood the scene with infrared light that is invisible to the human eye. The result: cameras can capture clear images in total darkness technexion.com. Whether it’s a wildlife trail camera snapping nocturnal animals or a home CCTV system, IR allows “invisible” illumination – intruders won’t see any light, but the camera sees everything in black and white. Militaries also use near-IR imaging devices for nighttime ops and to spot targets through smoke or fog.
  • Medical and Technical Uses: Infrared photography and imaging devices have niche uses in medicine and industry. In medicine, near-IR imaging can help visualize veins under skin or monitor blood flow. Infrared cameras are also used to inspect electronic circuits and artwork for heat or spectral analysis beyond visible light. Full-spectrum converted cameras (sensitive to UV, visible, and IR) are popular with paranormal enthusiasts as well, who attempt to capture ghostly “extras” across the spectrum (with varying degrees of science or skepticism).

What Is Infrared Photography and Why Is It Popular?

Infrared (IR) photography means capturing light that is just beyond the visible spectrum – typically wavelengths from about 700 nanometers up to ~1200nm, which our eyes can’t see kolarivision.com kolarivision.com. By recording this invisible light, IR photography creates images with wildly unconventional colors and tones. Lush green trees might turn ice-white, blue skies can go nearly black, and clouds pop with brilliant contrast. These surreal effects give IR photos a dreamy, otherworldly quality that immediately grabs attention.

One hallmark of infrared landscape photos is the Wood Effect – a phenomenon where foliage reflects a ton of IR light and renders as bright white, as if covered in frost or snow kolarivision.com. (It’s named after Robert W. Wood, a pioneer of IR photography, not after “wood” material itself.) This effect, combined with IR’s tendency to darken the sky and penetrate haze, produces high-contrast, almost psychedelic scenes. In the 1960s, this unreal look even entered pop culture: a number of rock album covers (from Jimi Hendrix to the Grateful Dead) famously used false-color infrared film imagery en.wikipedia.org as part of the era’s trippy aesthetic.

Today, infrared photography has grown popular among enthusiasts and fine-art photographers for several reasons. First, it’s simply fun and fascinating – it reveals a “hidden” world that we can’t perceive with our own eyes. Shooting in IR can make a mundane park or street scene look like an alien planet, reigniting creative inspiration. As professional landscape photographer David Clapp explains, “Colour relies so heavily on atmosphere and lighting… but infrared can work at pretty much any time of day. You can photograph something that’s very normal and turn it into something unique. It’s given my work such a strong identity.” canon.ge For photographers seeking a signature style or fresh perspective, IR offers a distinct visual signature that sets their work apart.

Additionally, digital technology has made IR photography much more accessible than it was in the film era. In the past, one had to buy special IR-sensitive film (like Kodak Aerochrome or HIE), handle it in total darkness, use opaque filters and long exposures, and deal with tricky development. The results were unpredictable (though often gorgeous). Now, with a converted digital camera (more on that process below), shooting IR is as easy as normal point-and-shoot photography – compose through the viewfinder or LCD and click. This ease of use has helped IR photography spread to a wider audience, from casual hobbyists experimenting for fun to professionals incorporating it into weddings, portrait sessions, and commercial shoots for a creative edge.

It’s worth noting that IR photography can be something of a “love it or hate it” genre in the photo community. Some love the mood and magic it can inject into a scene, especially in dramatic black-and-white. Others dismiss it as a gimmick if overdone. “Infrared photography still divides opinion,” writes one photography editor – it can be seen as either a great way to add atmosphere or a distracting trick amateurphotographer.com. Like HDR or fisheye effects, it’s a creative tool that should be used with purpose. When done thoughtfully, however, IR images can be truly breathtaking and even informative (in scientific contexts), showing us aspects of our world that are normally hidden in plain sight.

How Can You Convert a Regular Camera for Infrared?

Nearly all digital cameras – whether a DSLR, mirrorless, or compact – have sensors that are inherently sensitive to infrared light. In fact, if you didn’t filter it out, your camera would capture some IR in every photo (which would muddle the colors). That’s why manufacturers install an IR-cut filter (often called a “hot mirror”) in front of the sensor to block infrared (and ultraviolet) wavelengths, ensuring your photos look “normal” in visible light petapixel.com. To shoot infrared photography with a digital camera, the trick is to override or remove that IR-blocking filter so the sensor can record infrared light.

There are two primary ways to do this:

1. External IR Filters (No Camera Surgery): The simplest method is to attach a dark infrared-passing filter to the front of your camera lens. A common choice is a 720nm IR filter (which blocks most visible light and only lets IR light through). By doing this on an unmodified camera, you effectively force the camera to capture an IR image – however, because the camera’s internal hot mirror is still fighting to block IR, you’ll get very little light. The result is that exposure times have to be extremely long (often 10–30 seconds in bright sun) and you must use a tripod canon.ge. For example, David Clapp recalls that with a screw-on 720nm filter, a midday outdoor shot required a 30-second exposure canon.ge. These long exposures mean any movement (foliage in the breeze, people, clouds) will blur, which can be a creative effect but also a limitation. External filters are a low-cost way to experiment with IR – essentially anyone can try infrared by buying a ~$30–$100 IR filter for their lens. But the downsides are significant: tripod-only shooting, often grainy results, and framing/focusing is difficult because the filter is opaque black to human eyes (you typically have to compose the shot before putting the filter on, unless using live-view with high ISO).

2. Dedicated Infrared Conversion (Camera Surgery): The optimal solution – especially if you get hooked on IR – is to convert the camera by removing that internal hot mirror filter entirely. This is what we mean by a “converted IR camera.” In a conversion, a technician disassembles the camera to access the sensor and takes out the manufacturer’s IR-blocking glass. In its place, they usually install a new filter: either an IR-pass filter of a chosen wavelength (720nm, 590nm, etc.) or a clear glass if doing a full-spectrum conversion kolarivision.com. A full-spectrum conversion leaves the camera sensor open to all wavelengths (UV, visible, IR) and you then attach external filters on the lens to select what range you want to capture (giving you flexibility to shoot infrared, normal color, or even ultraviolet with the same camera) amateurphotographer.com amateurphotographer.com. In a dedicated IR conversion, by contrast, the replacement filter in front of the sensor is an IR-specific filter (e.g. 720nm), which means the camera will only capture IR and can’t do normal color anymore – but it also means you don’t need any lens filters at all for IR; the camera is ready to shoot hand-held IR with normal exposure times, just like a regular camera kolarivision.com.

Both approaches have pros and cons. Using an external filter (no camera mod) is cheap and non-invasive, but as noted it’s cumbersome. Converting the camera for IR not only frees you from tripods and long exposures, it also produces sharper, cleaner images (since the sensor isn’t fighting the IR block and you’re getting proper exposure) kolarivision.com. Colors will be richer (if doing false-color IR) and focusing is easier. With a converted camera you can even use normal exposure handheld and shoot moving subjects in IR. The main “con” is that you’ve dedicated that camera to IR work (unless it’s a full-spectrum mod where you can restore normal shooting via an external hot-mirror filter on the lens amateurphotographer.com). Many photographers solve this by converting an older spare camera rather than their main camera. It’s common, for instance, to take an older DSLR that’s been replaced in your bag and give it new life as an IR-only body.

The conversion process itself is intricate. It’s not as simple as popping out one filter and done – the sensor assembly is deep inside the camera behind many tiny screws, ribbon cables, and fragile components. The replacement filter’s thickness must often be matched precisely to maintain focus calibration lifepixel.com. On DSLRs, the autofocus system might need adjustment because infrared focuses at a slightly different point than visible light (mirrorless cameras don’t have this issue because focus is done on-sensor) amateurphotographer.com. Professional conversion services will handle these adjustments and also clean the sensor during the operation (since after removing the filter, the sensor is exposed – a speck of dust caught inside would stick around forever in your images). Typically, conversions cost anywhere from ~$200 to $400 for most cameras and filters, whereas more complex ones (for example, full-spectrum conversions of certain models, or medium format sensor conversions) can cost $1000 or more petapixel.com.

In short, to modify a camera for infrared you either add an external IR lens filter for occasional use or commit to an internal sensor conversion. The latter is the preferred path for serious IR shooters, giving much better results. Now, the big question: Can you do that conversion yourself, or should you pay an expert? Let’s compare DIY vs professional conversions.

DIY vs. Professional Infrared Conversion: Pros and Cons

Once you decide to convert a camera for infrared, you have two routes: do it yourself with the help of online tutorials and some steady hands, or send it to a professional conversion service. Both paths have devoted followers, but the consensus in the community (and a warning from the experts) is: if you’re not very comfortable with electronics or don’t want to risk your camera, it’s probably best to go pro.

DIY Conversion – Proceed with Caution: The DIY appeal is understandable – you save money, get the satisfaction of tinkering, and can convert on your own schedule. There are numerous step-by-step tutorials available for certain camera models (companies like LifePixel even publish guides for the adventurous, and sell the appropriate replacement filters for DIY use). However, these guides always come with big red-letter warnings. LifePixel’s tutorial disclaimer, for example, bluntly states that performing the conversion yourself is at your own risk and that “tampering with your camera will void your manufacturer’s warranty” lifepixel.com. It also warns you could be electrocuted – no joke, some cameras have a flash capacitor that carries high voltage and can give a nasty shock or even be lethal if mishandled lifepixel.com amateurphotographer.com. Beyond the shock risk, there’s a high chance of messing up the camera’s focus or sensor if you make a mistake. “The mere act of removing the sensor could ruin the factory calibration and render your camera incapable of proper focus,” LifePixel cautions lifepixel.com. And unlike many DIY projects, if you break the delicate sensor or tear a ribbon cable, the camera might be not only out of warranty but effectively totaled.

Some technically savvy folks do succeed at DIY conversions. It helps if the camera is a simpler design (older DSLRs with fewer electronics, or certain mirrorless models). In fact, camera technician Kelvin Stonebrook notes that “some cameras are pretty easy to convert, such as the Nikon D70” (an older DSLR with comparatively simple internals) amateurphotographer.com. But he quickly adds that “taking apart a mirrorless camera is usually complicated” and not advisable for amateurs amateurphotographer.com. Mirrorless bodies pack a lot in small space and often glue parts down. The Olympus E-M5 that Kelvin converted for a client, for example, is weather-sealed and required extra steps to open amateurphotographer.com. Kelvin’s blunt advice: full conversions are “not really something you should try to do at home.” amateurphotographer.com

If you do attempt it, be prepared with proper tools (precision screwdrivers, tweezers, maybe a soldering iron for some models), and work in a clean, dust-free environment. You’ll need to obtain a replacement glass filter of the correct thickness (or decide to leave it out for full-spectrum, which can impact focus on DSLRs). Expect the process to take several hours on your first try. There are communities of DIY IR enthusiasts (on forums and Reddit) who might help with model-specific tips. But always ask yourself: is the cost savings worth the risk? If the camera in question is one you can afford to lose (or you’re doing it for the learning experience), DIY might be fun. Just know that many have gone down this road and ended up with a non-functioning camera. LifePixel reports they “receive a number of calls and emails from DIYers who broke their cameras”, and more often than not those end up needing costly repairs or replacement lifepixel.com.

Professional Conversion – Expertise and Assurance: The alternative is to box up your camera and send it off to a company that specializes in infrared conversions. Several reputable services have been around for over a decade and have fine-tuned the art of IR modding. Companies like LifePixel, Kolari Vision, Spencer’s Camera, MaxMax and others have converted tens of thousands of cameras. The process typically works like this: you place an order specifying your camera model and what kind of conversion you want (e.g. 720nm standard IR, 590nm “super color” IR, full-spectrum, etc.). They often help with recommendations if you’re unsure – e.g., LifePixel notes their “Super Color IR” (590nm) is popular for its versatility in producing both stunning color and monochrome IR images lifepixel.com. Then you mail your camera to their facility. The turnaround is usually a week or two, during which a trained technician opens the camera in a dust-controlled environment, swaps the filter and calibrates focus if needed (some services even fine-tune the autofocus to a particular lens you can send along, or they adjust generally for a set focal length). They clean the sensor, reassemble everything, and send the camera back to you ready to shoot in IR.

The pros of a professional conversion are peace of mind and quality results. You don’t have to worry about the gotchas that come with each camera model – the experts already know them. For instance, some cameras have internal dust-shake sensors or other parts that need shims after conversion; the pros handle all that. Many services also offer warranties or satisfaction guarantees. If something isn’t right (e.g. focus is off), they’ll fix it. You’re paying for their labor, experience, and the IR filter glass itself. Typical prices (as of 2025) range from about $275 for a basic DSLR IR conversion up to $400–$500 for more advanced mirrorless or full-spectrum conversions. High-resolution or medium format cameras cost more (Kolari charges around $1,149 to convert Fuji’s 102MP GFX100 II, for example petapixel.com). These costs might seem high, but consider that if you botch a DIY attempt, you still might have to send the camera in and pay for both the conversion and repairs. As LifePixel quips, “most often [DIYers] end up needing to send the camera to a repair center… costing MUCH more than a professional IR conversion in the first place!” lifepixel.com

Another benefit of going with the pros: they often provide supporting services and resources. Many offer tutorials on shooting and post-processing IR, and some have trade-in programs or sales where you can directly buy a pre-converted camera (more on that next). Companies like Kolari Vision also develop accessories like custom hot-spot-free IR lens filters and clip-in filters for mirrorless, and even cooling mods for cameras to reduce sensor noise in IR long exposures kolarivision.com kolarivision.com. By connecting with a conversion service, you tap into a wealth of knowledge. In short, if your budget allows, professional conversion is the less stressful route and virtually guarantees a good outcome – your camera comes back as an IR-capable tool that feels just like shooting normal photos, only in a different spectrum.

Bottom line: While DIY infrared conversions are certainly possible (and understandably tempting for the handy), the risk-to-reward ratio means most people will be better off paying for a professional job unless they have a spare camera and a burning curiosity. As one seasoned expert succinctly put it regarding IR conversions: “Seriously though, leave this to us – you wouldn’t believe the number of [DIY] cameras we get sent in pieces.” lifepixel.com Sometimes, avoiding a potential horror story is worth the price.

Popular Camera Models Commonly Converted for Infrared

One of the great things about infrared photography is that you don’t need the latest-and-greatest camera to dive in. In fact, many people purposefully use older camera models for IR, either to save money or because some older sensors have advantages (like no anti-alias filter or weaker IR blocking to begin with). Let’s look at the types of cameras frequently converted for infrared and some specific model examples in each category:

● Digital SLRs (DSLRs): DSLRs have long been popular for IR conversion. They offer good image quality, lots of lens choices, and can often be found cheaply second-hand once newer models come out. A classic example: Canon’s Rebel series (entry-level APS-C DSLRs). These cameras are inexpensive, widely available, and well-documented for conversion. According to Spencer’s Camera (a conversion provider), models from the Rebel SL1/SL2 up through T5i/T6i/T7i/T8i are proven performers and “highly recommended IR cameras.” kaitphotography.com.au Many Nikon DSLRs are also converted – notably, the older 6-megapixel Nikon D70 and D40 gained a reputation in IR circles because their stock IR filter was relatively weak, meaning even unmodified they could do some IR, and once converted they produced excellent results kaitphotography.com.au. People have converted everything from cheap Nikon D3000-series bodies up to pro Canon 5D/5D Mark II/III DSLRs for infrared. One consideration with DSLRs is focus: as mentioned, a DSLR focuses using a separate phase-detect sensor, so the conversion company will usually calibrate the camera’s autofocus for a general distance or a specific lens after the IR filter is installed. When done right, DSLR IR images are as sharp as any regular photo. DSLRs also don’t always have live view (older ones), so composing through the optical viewfinder works normally if you chose an internal IR filter conversion (because the mirror sees through the lens normally until the IR filter in front of sensor does its job) amateurphotographer.com. However, if you do a full-spectrum conversion on a DSLR and then use an opaque IR lens filter, you can’t see through the optical VF – you’d have to use live view to compose or focus before attaching the filter amateurphotographer.com. For that reason, many DSLR users opt for a dedicated internal IR filter conversion (720nm, etc.) so that the camera is always “seeing” in IR without needing lens filters.

In terms of specific DSLR models that shine for IR: Canon APS-C models from 2010s (Rebels, 60D/70D, etc.) are prevalent. Full-frame Canons like the 5D II or 6D are also wonderful IR platforms – they have no built-in flash (no shock risk in DIY) and produce clean files. Nikon DSLRs from the D90, D7000, up to D800 have all seen use; note that Nikon’s newer models sometimes show subtle “noise” pattern under IR (known as PDAF sensor lines in mirrorless, or occasional hot-spot issues with certain Nikon lenses). Generally, though, any DSLR that you enjoyed in visible light can be converted to make equally great infrared images. As one IR technician put it, “you can get great results with a camera that is nearly ten years old” amateurphotographer.com – so it often comes down to what you have on hand or can acquire cheaply. Many choose to convert older DSLRs because it’s “less of a risk” (you’re not sacrificing your main shooter) amateurphotographer.com, and the payoff can be a whole new chapter for that camera.

● Mirrorless Cameras: In recent years, mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras have become the stars of infrared photography. Their design is simply ideal for IR: since the image is composed on the sensor itself (using either the LCD or an electronic viewfinder), you never have to worry about focus calibration or not seeing through an IR filter. What you see is what you get. You can attach an IR filter to the lens of a full-spectrum-converted mirrorless camera and still compose in live view because the sensor is picking up IR and displaying it in real time. This flexibility makes mirrorless systems extremely popular for full-spectrum conversions especially. For instance, David Clapp’s switch to an IR-converted Canon EOS RP (a lightweight full-frame mirrorless) gave him the freedom to use different IR filters (590nm, 665nm, etc.) via a drop-in filter adapter and still shoot handheld with normal exposure times, which he found revolutionary compared to his old methods canon.ge canon.ge.

Common mirrorless models chosen for IR include Sony’s Alpha series – the A6000 (APS-C) is frequently cited as a great value IR camera kolarivision.com, and the Sony A7 series (full-frame) are widely converted too. Kolari Vision notes that a used first-generation Sony A7 is an inexpensive entry into full-frame IR kolarivision.com. Sony mirrorless sensors deliver excellent dynamic range, which is helpful in IR where foliage can reflect a lot of light. Canon’s EOS R series (like the RP, R, R5, etc.) are also top choices – Canon’s sensors and lens lineup work very well in IR, and Canon’s system has nice touches like easy custom white balance and the option of the drop-in filter EF-R adapter (meaning you can use one filter on any lens) kolarivision.com canon.ge. In fact, one guide touts the Canon R5 as “simply one of the best” cameras to convert, given its high resolution, no known IR light leaks, and 8K video ability for IR video shooting kolarivision.com.

Fujifilm mirrorless cameras are also used – Fuji’s X-series (X-T line, X-E, etc.) have X-Trans sensors that yield interesting IR color and are popular among IR shooters who love Fujifilm colors. Fuji even released some models specifically for IR (X-T1 IR, and more recently X-H2 IR and even a medium-format GFX100IR as discussed). Micro Four Thirds mirrorless (Panasonic/Olympus) are not to be forgotten: an example is the Olympus OM-D E-M5 that AP’s editor converted and got great results with amateurphotographer.com. These smaller-sensor mirrorless cameras benefit from a deep depth of field and often very sharp lenses; the only downside is potentially more noise (which can be an issue in IR shadows). But plenty of MFT cameras (Panasonic GH series, Olympus PENs, etc.) have been converted and produce lovely IR images.

One trend is that many photographers convert their old mirrorless cameras when they upgrade to a new model. Kelvin Stonebrook observed that “lots of people are choosing to have mirrorless cameras converted as they may have a spare from an upgrade, and the cameras tend to be a lot lighter if used as a second body.” amateurphotographer.com This means if you moved from a Sony A7 II to an A7 IV, you might turn that A7 II into your IR camera. Mirrorless bodies are generally smaller and lighter, which is great for carrying along specifically for infrared shooting on a hike or trip.

In summary, mirrorless IR conversions offer ease of use (through-the-lens viewing and focusing in IR) and are very versatile. From budget older models to cutting-edge ones like the Sony A1 or Canon R5 (yes, people do convert $6,000 cameras to IR!), any mirrorless can theoretically be converted. Do note that a few mirrorless models have known issues in IR – for instance, Kolari mentions that many Nikon Z series cameras show “sensor line” artifacts in IR, with the flagship Nikon Z9 being a notable exception with much subtler lines kolarivision.com. It’s always worth checking conversion company notes or community forums for any model-specific IR quirks (like “hot spots” with certain lenses or minor artifacts). Generally, though, the mirrorless segment is a sweet spot for IR photography.

● Compact & Point-and-Shoot Cameras: You might be surprised, but even basic point-and-shoot cameras (and bridge cameras) can be superb IR shooters once converted. Their advantage is that they’re all-in-one and very easy to use – you don’t change lenses, and they often focus via the sensor (like mirrorless) so they work great in IR. They also tend to be cheap, so it’s a low-risk way to play with infrared. For instance, Kolari Vision sells a converted Canon ELPH 180 “Kolari Pocket” camera that’s literally a pocket-sized IR camera kolarivision.com. Enthusiasts also convert older Canon PowerShot models or Nikon Coolpix cameras. A popular high-end compact to convert is the Canon PowerShot G15/G16 series kolarivision.com – these have relatively large 1/1.7″ sensors and can shoot RAW, yielding decent quality IR images in a tiny package (and they have filter threads to add external filters if full-spectrum). Panasonic’s Lumix ZS100 (a 1″ sensor travel zoom) is another that has been converted, offering manual controls and RAW in a compact form kolarivision.com.

The pros of compact cameras for IR: small and lightweight (great for travel IR photography), simpler operation for beginners, and no focus calibration issues at all because it’s fixed-lens and contrast-detect focus kolarivision.com. In fact, on some point-and-shoots, you can even add an IR filter in front of the lens without conversion and still compose via the LCD (since many compacts don’t have strong IR blocking or have live-view that can show some IR with long exposure). After conversion, a point-and-shoot becomes a dedicated IR snapshot camera – just turn it on and shoot IR photos on the fly, which is quite liberating.

The cons: compact cameras usually have small sensors, which means more noise and less detail. Infrared photography can be prone to noise in shadows (digital sensors are typically a bit less sensitive in IR and dynamic range can be lower), and a tiny sensor exacerbates that kolarivision.com. Don’t expect to make huge fine-art prints from a 12-megapixel compact’s IR photos; they’re best enjoyed on screen or smaller prints. Also, many compacts lack lens interchangeability, obviously, and some don’t have filter threads (although adapters exist). Still, for casual IR shooting or learning the ropes, a converted compact is a fun, affordable option. As Kolari’s guide says, “point-and-shoot cameras are a great starting point for infrared… small, easy to use, and inexpensive,” just keep in mind their limitations in image quality kolarivision.com.

● Other camera types: Virtually any digital camera can be converted – including rangefinders (people have converted Leica models, though one must use live view as the rangefinder focus won’t account for IR), medium format cameras (Fujifilm’s GFX series conversions are offered, as noted, and Pentax 645Z has been done by some services), and even drones and action cams. In fact, there are services that specialize in converting DJI drones to full-spectrum or NDVI IR cameras for agriculture imaging kolarivision.com. GoPro cameras have been converted to see IR as well, which is interesting for FPV or unique perspectives. So, the sky is the limit – from a $100 pocket cam to a $10k Phase One digital back, if you have the budget, you can make it an IR camera.

In practice, most people stick to converting cameras in the $100 to $1500 range – gear that is decent but not their primary workhorse. The good news is that whatever you choose, you can likely find examples online of successful conversions and sample IR shots from that model, which can guide your expectations. The variety of options means infrared photography is open to everyone with a camera to spare and a sense of adventure.

Buying Pre-Converted or Purpose-Built Infrared Cameras

If you’re eager to jump into infrared photography but don’t have a spare camera (or don’t want to send yours in for modification), an alternative is to buy a camera that’s already been converted or even a factory-made infrared camera. This route can sometimes be more convenient – you get a ready-to-use IR camera out of the box – and it doesn’t necessarily cost more than doing the conversion separately.

Pre-Converted Used Cameras: A large portion of IR enthusiasts acquire their infrared camera through the used market. Many photographers convert a camera, use it for a while, and later sell it when upgrading or changing systems. As a result, it’s not uncommon to find listings on eBay or used gear sites for cameras labeled “IR converted” or “full-spectrum modified.” For example, at the time of writing, a reputable used dealer had a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV (30MP full-frame) listed as infrared converted for around $1,143 keh.com. That’s a high-end camera already set up for IR – potentially a great deal if you’re specifically after an IR-only body.

Some of the infrared conversion companies themselves sell used gear that they’ve converted and refurbished. LifePixel often has a “Used Cameras” section lifepixel.com where you can buy, say, a Canon 50D that’s been converted to 720nm IR, or a Nikon D5300 full-spectrum, etc. Kolari Vision similarly lists used converted cameras – one example being a Canon EOS RP full-spectrum converted mirrorless for around $1,199 (which was a discounted price from its original) kolarivision.com. These come already modified with the filter of your choice, and usually with some short warranty. The advantage here is you’re getting the camera from specialists who have vetted its performance post-conversion, and you don’t have downtime waiting for a conversion.

Even if a company doesn’t list a specific used item you want, many offer to source and convert a camera for you. For instance, Spencer’s Camera advertises that they “carry in stock many new and used cameras ready to be modified to your specifications.” spencerscamera.com So you could contact them and say, “I’d like an entry-level Nikon DSLR converted to 590nm,” and they might have a donor body on hand to convert and sell as a package. This one-stop approach appeals to those who don’t own a suitable camera already.

Factory Infrared Cameras: Beyond the aftermarket conversions, a few camera manufacturers have produced dedicated IR or full-spectrum models – typically aimed at niche professional markets (forensic, scientific, or astro photography). These are relatively rare and often not marketed to general consumers, but they’re worth knowing about:

• Fujifilm has been the most active in this space. In 2015 Fuji released the X-T1 IR, an infrared-enabled version of their X-T1 mirrorless, explicitly for forensic and technical use. It was essentially an X-T1 with no IR-cut filter, allowing UV–Visible–IR capture. More recently, in 2020 Fuji announced the GFX100 IR (a 100MP medium format IR camera) on a limited basis, and in 2023/2024 they followed with the X-T4 “Extended Spectrum” (for general sale) and in 2025 the GFX100 II IR and X-H2 IR flagship models. These latest ones are “purpose-built imaging tools” for professionals – intended for museums, crime labs, etc., not casual use petapixel.com petapixel.com. In fact, Fujifilm requires buyers to sign an agreement that they won’t use the cameras for unauthorized surveillance or sell them to unvetted parties petapixel.com. The Fujifilm IR models can see a broad range of wavelengths (typically roughly 380nm–1000nm with appropriate external filters) petapixel.com petapixel.com. Fuji’s literature gives examples like revealing forensic details in counterfeit documents, analyzing pigments in artwork, or specialized scientific analysis petapixel.com. These cameras carry a hefty price and are very specialized – for instance, they mention multi-shot high-res modes (400MP) for cultural preservation mapping petapixel.com. So, unless you’re working in those fields, you likely won’t encounter a Fuji IR model in the wild. But it’s an interesting sign that camera makers recognize the value of infrared imaging.
• Canon has dabbled in related areas, though not exactly “infrared only” cameras. Their EOS Ra (2019) and earlier 60Da were variants aimed at astrophotographers, with a modified filter that passes more hydrogen-alpha wavelength (around 656nm, technically deep red) to capture nebulae. They still kept visible color usability, so they’re not full IR, but they show that sensor filters can be tweaked for specific spectra. Canon also made some multispectral EOS bodies for scientific use in limited runs, but those were not broadly sold.
• Nikon produced the D810A for astronomy (similar concept to Canon Ra, extended red sensitivity). Back in the film days and early digital, Nikon and others also had specially sensitized emulsions and sensors for IR, but nothing recent in a pure IR-only camera for consumers.
• Fujifilm (older) also had the IS-1/IS Pro series (S3 Pro UVIR DSLR) in the mid-2000s, which were popular with law enforcement – effectively a DSLR that could do IR and UV out of the box. Those are now outdated, but you might find them used.
• Leica: A quirky note – the Leica M8 camera (2007) inadvertently was too sensitive to IR (Leica didn’t put a strong enough IR-cut filter in it), causing black fabrics to appear magenta in normal photos. Leica had to supply IR-cut lens filters to customers to correct it. However, some creative shooters took advantage of the M8’s semi-IR sensitivity to shoot infrared without a conversion. Leica later made a dedicated monochrome camera (the M10 Monochrom), but that’s for black-and-white visible light, not IR. Still, it shows how IR can creep into designs.
• Security and Specialty Cameras: Outside the consumer realm, many industrial and security cameras are effectively “full-spectrum” by default – they often have removable or switchable IR filters (ever notice the click on a security cam when it switches to night mode? That’s the IR-cut filter moving away). Companies like FLIR make thermal infrared cameras (far IR, different technology) and near-IR modules used in machine vision, etc. For example, the Raspberry Pi community has a popular NoIR Camera module for the Pi that has no IR filter, letting makers experiment with IR imaging for about $25.

For a photography enthusiast, buying a pre-converted used camera is usually the most practical way to get an IR-capable camera quickly. You avoid the hassle of doing it yourself and the wait of sending gear in. Prices for pre-converted cameras vary widely – a used older DSLR converted to IR might be only a couple hundred dollars (sometimes a real bargain when someone is offloading gear), whereas a near-new mirrorless converted will cost roughly the camera’s used price plus the cost of conversion. Keep an eye on trusted resellers or the websites of conversion companies for “Used Infrared Cameras” sections.

One thing to double-check when buying pre-converted: what nanometer filter or type of conversion it has. The listing should say something like “720nm IR” or “590nm IR” or “Full Spectrum.” This matters because it determines how you’ll shoot with it. If it’s a 720nm IR-only conversion, you can shoot black-and-white IR brilliantly and do some false-color (there’s a bit of color data up to ~720nm). If it’s 590nm SuperColor, you’ll have more color IR options (yellows, reds, etc. that you can channel swap for false-color foliage). If it’s full-spectrum, the camera will require you to use an external filter for IR; otherwise, if you shoot with no filter it will capture all wavelengths (which might just look like a weird mix). Full-spectrum is very versatile (you can put on a 850nm filter for pure deep black & white IR, or a 590nm for color IR, or a normal UV/IR-cut filter to use the camera conventionally), but it does mean an extra step of filtering for each scenario. Some people prefer a dedicated IR conversion so they can avoid the fuss of lens filters – it’s up to your shooting style.

In any case, there’s an option for every budget and level of commitment: from $200 thrift-store finds to multi-thousand-dollar scientific rigs. The variety of gear reflects the myriad ways infrared imaging is being used, which leads us to the next topic – what exactly people do with these infrared cameras.

Applications of Infrared Photography

Infrared photography isn’t just about funky colors and fine art – it actually has a wide spectrum (pardon the pun) of practical and creative applications. Let’s break down some of the major uses of IR photography and IR-imaging cameras:

• Fine Art and Aesthetic Photography: This is the use most photo enthusiasts are familiar with. IR is popular for landscape photography, turning ordinary scenes into eerie wonderlands. Blue skies become almost black, and foliage glows white (the Wood effect) giving a high contrast, surreal look even at noon kolarivision.com. Many photographers create false-color infrared images by capturing IR in color and then swapping color channels in post-processing – yielding red or pink trees and blue or cyan skies, for example. These can look like dreamy “digital Aerochrome” images reminiscent of that rare Kodak IR film amateurphotographer.com. Infrared can also be used in portraiture: some wedding and portrait shooters use IR for a select few images to add variety. IR light tends to penetrate slightly into the skin and smooth out skin blemishes and wrinkles, giving a very flattering, soft skin glow kolarivision.com. Eyes can look black in IR (since the iris doesn’t reflect IR much), which can be unsettling if overdone, but for a dreamy bridal portrait in IR, the result can be ethereal. There are also macro photographers who use IR to capture flowers in a unique way, or architecture photographers who like how IR renders building materials and sky. Overall, IR is a fine-art medium that allows a fresh creative interpretation of subjects, and that’s a huge reason for its popularity among photographers.
• Astrophotography: Many celestial objects emit or reflect infrared wavelengths. For instance, certain nebulas (like the Horsehead or Rosette Nebula) have deep red hydrogen-alpha emissions that a normal camera only partially captures. An IR or astro-converted camera (with its IR-cut filter removed) can capture those nebulae in far greater detail and brightness kolarivision.com. Infrared can also cut through interstellar dust to reveal stars that are hidden in visible light. This is why NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope operate in infrared – to see phenomena invisible to optical telescopes. Amateur astrophotographers often modify DSLRs for improved H-alpha and IR response, or buy models like Canon’s Ra or Nikon’s D810A which cater to that need. Even without going full astro nerd, if you have a full-spectrum camera, you can attach specialized filters (like a 656nm pass) to shoot deep-sky objects with more vibrance. In a different use, IR is also used for capturing eclipses or the solar chromosphere (with proper filtering for safety) as certain layers of the sun’s atmosphere are better seen in near-IR. In summary, IR expands our ability to photograph the night sky and cosmic events.
• Environmental and Aerial Imaging: IR’s ability to penetrate haze and its sensitivity to vegetation reflectance makes it valuable for aerial photography and remote sensing. Even in World War II, infrared-sensitive film was used for camouflage detection – healthy plants show up very bright in IR, so if something was camouflaged with paint, it would stand out dark against IR-bright foliage kolarivision.com. Today, drones equipped with IR-converted cameras do tasks like monitoring crop health, forestry management, and environmental changes. Farmers can use IR images (or combined bands in NDVI indices) to identify stressed crops or irrigation issues well before they’re visible to the eye. In forestry, IR aerial photos can help map tree species or detect diseased areas. Environmental scientists also use IR for water body studies (IR can delineate shoreline vegetation, algae blooms, etc., although pure water itself looks very dark in IR, providing good contrast). With the hobbyist drone market, even consumer drones can be converted to full-spectrum to create DIY “NDVI” cameras by using an IR+Blue filter to mimic satellite vegetation indices kolarivision.com. So, IR photography contributes significantly in ecological and earth observation fields.
• Forensics, Law Enforcement, and Security: As mentioned earlier, infrared can reveal details that are literally invisible under normal light. Forensic photographers use infrared (and also UV, which is a different part of spectrum) for various investigative purposes:
  • Document Examination: Inks have different IR absorption. An altered document, where someone added a different ink, might look uniform in visible light but under IR one ink disappears or contrasts against another. IR can also sometimes “see through” scribbles or redactions done with certain pens, revealing what’s underneath, because some inks become transparent in IR. This is used in forensic labs to examine fraud, forgeries, or historical documents where text has faded or been overwritten.
  • Trace Evidence: Gunshot residue or certain fibers and stains respond distinctively in IR. Infrared photography can help visualize bruises under skin (in some abuse investigations, old bruises under the surface can be photographed in IR even if they’re not visible normally). It can also help see blood stains on dark clothing – often dried blood is very dark in IR, providing contrast on dark fabric that would otherwise hide it kolarivision.com.
  • Surveillance: IR flash photography is a staple of security cameras and night-vision gear. Police or military may use infrared floodlights (which are invisible) to illuminate an area and record with IR-sensitive cameras (body cams, vehicle cams, CCTV) for operations in darkness. There are also IR lasers and scopes used for night vision aiming and surveillance (commonly seen in military night-ops footage as those eerie green videos – though that’s near-IR or thermal imaging combined often).
  • Cultural Heritage and Art Analysis: This overlaps science and forensics – museums use infrared imaging to examine paintings for underdrawings. Many pigments have different IR transparencies; for example, charcoal or pencil sketches under a painting might show up in IR reflectography imaging because the paint above is semi-transparent in IR. This has led to discoveries of artists’ hidden sketches or changes. Infrared can also help distinguish certain pigments or see signatures that got obscured. The Fujifilm GFX100IR cited an example of revealing details in a faded painting when viewed in IR petapixel.com.
• Scientific Research and Industrial Inspection: IR converted cameras (especially full-spectrum with various filters) find myriad uses in science labs and industry. A few examples:
  • Plant Research: Beyond imaging from drones, even in a lab setting, IR photography helps botanists study plant tissue properties. IR light can sometimes image through the surface of leaves or show water content differences.
  • Medical Research: Near-IR imaging is used in some diagnostic equipment. There are also photography techniques like IR reflectography in dermatology to see subsurface details of skin. Some veterinarians have used IR cameras to examine bruising on animals (since fur can often be somewhat IR transparent, it might show injuries beneath).
  • Electronics Inspection: Not exactly photography in the traditional sense, but modified cameras or special IR scopes are used to examine circuit boards for overheating components (though true thermal imaging uses far IR, some near-IR can detect hot spots indirectly by glow or by using IR fluorescence with certain dyes).
  • Quality Control: In food production, IR vision systems help sort produce (ripe vs unripe reflect differently in IR) or detect foreign objects in foods on a conveyor.
• Hobby and Other Uses: IR photography has even spawned its own sub-communities and creative projects. Some folks use IR cameras for “ghost hunting” or paranormal investigations, operating under the idea that maybe apparitions might appear in IR if not in visible light. While there’s no scientific evidence of ghosts on IR, the practice persists with full-spectrum camcorders, etc., in the paranormal community. Another lighthearted use: some photographers enjoy the challenge of IR portraiture or street photography, capturing everyday life in bizarre false colors – it can be a cool art series or social commentary when familiar scenes look so alien. And let’s not forget, IR photography has some cinematic applications – filmmakers occasionally use infrared for surreal dream sequences or special effects.

In essence, infrared photography bridges art and science. As one source put it, “there are countless applications,” ranging from artistic to practical – from wedding portraits with softer skin to spotting counterfeit money or camouflaged objects, to astrophotography and ecological monitoring kolarivision.com kolarivision.com. It’s this versatility that makes mastering IR photography rewarding; you might start doing it for the cool pictures, but end up contributing to a research project or discovering new ways of seeing the world.

Infrared Photography Today: News and Innovations

Infrared photography may have its roots in 20th-century film emulsions, but it continues to evolve in the digital age. In recent years, there have been several interesting developments and trends in the IR space:

• Mainstream Camera Support for IR: As discussed, Fujifilm’s release of the GFX100 II IR and X-H2 IR in 2025 is big news for the IR community petapixel.com. It’s a signal that major manufacturers recognize a demand (albeit niche) for infrared-capable cameras. These models, while targeted at forensics and museums, pack cutting-edge sensors (102MP medium format and 40MP APS-C, respectively) with no IR cut filter, meaning they can capture a broad range of wavelengths. Fujifilm even highlighted uses like “digitizing and archiving artworks” with multi-shot high resolution, where IR can reveal underdrawings or faded details petapixel.com petapixel.com. One catch: Fuji isn’t selling them to general consumers – you must sign an agreement that you’re a bona fide research or law enforcement user petapixel.com. This exclusivity reminds us that IR imaging can have sensitive uses. Still, for the average photographer, it’s reassuring to know that if IR is crucial to your work, companies like Fuji have you in mind (though the rest of us will stick to conversions).
• Conversion Services Expanding: The cottage industry of IR conversions has grown. There are now multiple players globally, and they don’t just convert – they innovate. For instance, Kolari Vision developed a cooling modification for the Canon R5 (adding a heat sink) which, when combined with IR conversion, allows much longer IR video recording without overheating kolarivision.com kolarivision.com. They also partnered with Blackmagic to create a modified Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro that can switch between normal and IR shooting with the press of a button (achieved by installing an internal mechanism to swap filters) – essentially giving cinematographers a dual-purpose camera for visible and infrared video. These kinds of advancements mean that IR isn’t limited to still images; Infrared videography is becoming more viable. We’re seeing music videos, short films, and timelapses shot in infrared that captivate viewers with their surreal look.
• New IR Filters and Accessories: One of the challenges in digital IR photography is post-processing – specifically recreating the famous look of Kodak Aerochrome false-color film (where foliage was red, skies blue, etc.). A recent innovation to address that is the IR Chrome filter (developed by Kolari in collaboration with others) which is a lens filter designed to emulate Aerochrome’s color response in-camera. It’s basically a dual-bandpass filter that passes some red and IR to mimic the old film’s look amateurphotographer.com. Though not cheap (around $100), it has given digital IR shooters a more straightforward way to get those classic “red trees, blue sky” effects without complex channel swapping. In the realm of accessories, there are also magnetic clip-in filters now for various camera mounts (Kolari introduced these for full-frame mirrorless and recently Micro Four Thirds petapixel.com). These clip-ins sit in the camera mount and allow quick swapping of different IR filters (590nm, 720nm, etc.) without screwing anything onto the lens – very handy for those doing full-spectrum conversions who want to try different looks on the fly.
• Resurgence of IR Film Alternatives: While Kodak’s IR films are long gone, there has been a mini resurgence in interest for analogue infrared. Enthusiasts treasure expired rolls of Aerochrome (paying sky-high prices), and a few niche companies have produced IR-sensitive films (Rollei makes an IR 400 black & white film, for example). However, because true color IR film isn’t commercially available, digital solutions (like the IR Chrome filter or custom Photoshop actions) have filled the gap. Some photographers also experiment with trichrome techniques – shooting three separate images with different filters (including IR) and merging to get false-color composites. This is complex but shows how people are pushing boundaries to simulate or recapture looks from the past in new ways.
• Community and Social Media: Infrared photography has a vibrant online community. Platforms like Instagram and Flickr have thousands of IR images; there are dedicated Facebook groups and subreddits (e.g., r/InfraredPhotography) where people share tips and shots. During the 2020–2021 pandemic lockdowns, many photographers were stuck at home and started exploring new techniques – anecdotal reports suggest interest in IR photography spiked during lockdown as people converted older cameras to shoot their local surroundings in a fresh way amateurphotographer.com. This upsurge means more tutorials, presets, and peer support available now than ever. It’s easier to learn IR post-processing tricks (like swapping red/blue channels, adjusting white balance on RAW files which often come out deep red) thanks to blogs and YouTube. In essence, IR is becoming a well-known “genre” of photography in its own right, not just an obscure experimental technique. Even major outlets like Digital Photography School and PetaPixel regularly publish IR guides or features, which indicates the mainstream photography world has embraced it.
• Technological Improvements: Camera sensors keep getting better – higher dynamic range, lower noise, and higher resolution all benefit IR photography. One specific improvement for IR folks is the reduction of sensor self-heating and noise. Earlier DSLRs, when converted, sometimes showed lots of noise for long IR exposures. Modern mirrorless sensors (especially with backside illumination and better cooling in video-centric models) produce cleaner IR images. The Nikon Z9, for example, was noted to have significantly less of the “sensor line” issue that plagued earlier Nikon mirrorless in IR kolarivision.com. Canon’s R5 and R6 have shown incredibly clean IR astrophotography results when cooled mods are applied kolarivision.com. We can expect that as sensors progress (and maybe global shutters or new designs come out), IR shooters will reap the benefits of those advances as well.
• Software and Editing Advances: Post-processing IR has always been a bit quirky – setting a custom white balance, dealing with pink RAW files that Lightroom might not handle well, etc. Lately, software has caught up. Programs like Adobe Lightroom and Capture One now allow much better white balance adjustment into the infrared range (earlier versions didn’t let you go low enough in temp/tint). There are also IR-specific Lightroom presets and Photoshop actions (like LifePixel’s or Kolari’s false-color presets) that can one-click emulate certain looks. Even mobile apps have some filters that mimic IR effects (though mostly just color tweaks). The point is, editing IR is easier and more accessible, which encourages newcomers to try infrared without feeling overwhelmed by technical hurdles.
• Experimental Uses and Cross-discipline: We’re also seeing IR used in conjunction with other technologies. For instance, some drone mappers combine infrared imagery with AI algorithms to automatically detect plant diseases or water stress. In art, some photographers combine infrared with thermal imaging in creative composites (thermal cameras capture far IR heat radiation, producing completely different visuals – blending them can be artistic). Others are stacking infrared and visible light exposures to create HDR-like composites that retain some normal color but with IR luminance (yielding a subtle IR look that’s more realistic – a technique occasionally used in architectural documentation to see through haze but keep natural colors). These hybrid approaches show that IR photography doesn’t exist in a vacuum; it’s part of a broader movement toward multi-spectral imaging. Who knows – in the future, we might have cameras that natively shoot multi-spectral photos (some research prototyped cameras with prism beam-splitters sending light to multiple sensors: RGB, IR, UV simultaneously).

In summary, the infrared photography arena is quite dynamic. Current news includes camera makers tiptoeing into IR for professionals, while innovations from the conversion industry and community are making IR easier and more fun for everyone else. The creative possibilities keep expanding, and as more photographers share stunning IR images online, it fuels further interest and experimentation. Infrared may have once been a fringe novelty, but today it’s an exciting, evolving field at the intersection of photography, art, and science.

Expert Commentary and Future Trends

To get a sense of where infrared photography stands and where it’s headed, it helps to hear from those deeply involved – the photographers and technicians who work with IR regularly. Here are a few expert insights and trends they’ve observed:

• The Creative Allure of IR: Many experienced photographers champion infrared for its unmatched creative potential. As mentioned, David Clapp, a notable landscape photographer, credits IR with invigorating his portfolio. He emphasizes that infrared lets you shoot in conditions that would be dull for normal color. “Colour relies so heavily on atmosphere and lighting… but infrared can work at pretty much any time of day,” Clapp says, noting that even a banal midday scene can turn into something magical in IR canon.ge. He found that carrying an IR-converted camera alongside his regular one gave him more opportunities – if the light was harsh or the scenery lacked color interest, the IR camera could rescue the shoot with a unique interpretation canon.ge canon.ge. This sentiment is echoed by countless IR enthusiasts: it’s like having a “secret weapon” in your camera bag to produce images that surprise viewers and even yourself.
• Infrared as a Signature Style: Some photographers have built a signature style around infrared. For instance, people often cite Simon Marsden (mentioned in AP’s article) whose ghostly IR photographs of old castles and landscapes defined a haunting, gothic style amateurphotographer.com. More recently, contemporary artists like Richard Mosse garnered acclaim for using false-color IR (Aerochrome film) to document conflict in the Congo, rendering war zones in surreal pinks and reds – a jarring juxtaposition of beauty and violence. These examples show IR can be more than gimmick; in the right hands it becomes a powerful storytelling tool. Experts predict we’ll continue to see infrared used in fine art and documentary projects to lend a fresh visual voice. With digital, the palette is broader (since we can map IR to any colors). Some even speculate about IR photo exhibitions and categories in competitions becoming more common as the technique gains respectability beyond a niche.
• Equipment Trends – Mirrorless & Full-Spectrum: On the technical side, experts like Kelvin Stonebrook note a clear trend: mirrorless cameras are taking over in the IR realm. “We convert many DSLRs… but lots of people are choosing mirrorless cameras [for conversion],” Kelvin says, largely because people upgrade their mirrorless bodies frequently and the older one becomes an easy convert, and mirrorless are light and convenient amateurphotographer.com. He also mentions that full-frame mirrorless models from top brands have excellent performance for IR amateurphotographer.com – which aligns with Kolari’s findings that cameras like the Canon R5 or Sony A1 have practically no downsides when converted (no weird light leaks or focus issues). This suggests future development: if camera makers ever make consumer IR versions, they’d likely base them on mirrorless designs for the flexibility. Another trend is full-spectrum conversions gaining popularity over single-wavelength IR conversions. David Clapp’s “lightbulb moment” was converting his camera to full-spectrum and using different filters, rather than being locked into one IR filter internally canon.ge. Many in the IR community have followed suit, essentially to “have it all” – one camera that can do 590nm, 720nm, 850nm IR, normal visible, even some UV, just by swapping filters. The cost of filters is not trivial (each good filter might be $50-100), but it’s still cheaper than converting multiple cameras to different IR types. Experts predict more photographers will go the full-spectrum route as they get serious about infrared, especially with easier filter solutions (like clip-in filters).
• Challenges and Solutions: Experts also discuss some challenges in IR photography that are being addressed. One is the issue of hot spots – many lenses can produce a bright circular hotspot in the center of IR images at certain apertures. This is due to IR light bouncing inside the lens differently. To help, Kolari and LifePixel maintain hotspot databases for lenses amateurphotographer.com. Lens manufacturers don’t design for IR, so this will persist, but with mirrorless, more people are experimenting with vintage lenses (since they can adapt them), and some of those old lenses ironically do better in IR (often older coatings or simpler designs mean fewer hotspots). So, one trend is IR shooters gravitating to specific “IR-friendly” lenses; for example, many love the Carl Zeiss Jenazoom or certain older Nikkor primes that show no hotspot. It’s a niche knowledge base, but experts are actively sharing this info to help others avoid frustration. Another challenge is post-processing workflow, which for newcomers can be confusing (custom white balance, channel mixing, etc.). The trend here is that experts have created presets and training to flatten the learning curve. For instance, LifePixel and Kolari both sell or freely share Lightroom profiles that, when applied to an IR RAW file, will set a neutral white balance and even swap channels to give a base false-color look. There are also specialized IR editing software/plugins (one called CLiR offers an IR-specific editing workflow). The community emphasis is on saying: “Don’t be intimidated – we have tools to help you get the look you want.” Seasoned IR photographers often advise beginners to shoot RAW+JPEG at first, with a proper white balance set in camera, so the JPEG will have a near-final look and the RAW can be perfected later amateurphotographer.com. This kind of advice and the availability of tutorials suggest that IR photography will become more user-friendly, shedding its reputation as a technically esoteric pursuit.
• Personal Advice from IR Photographers: A common refrain from the experts is to experiment and embrace surprises. IR is inherently unpredictable at times – two cameras might render IR colors slightly differently, and scenes can yield unexpected results (e.g. some flowers reflect IR strongly, others don’t). Nicholas Wong, an IR-focused photographer, advises newcomers to “experiment, embrace the unexpected, and find the infrared look that speaks to you.” adorama.com The idea is that there is no single “right” way to do IR. Some folks love pure 850nm monochrome IR for its stark contrast, others prefer 590nm false-color psychedelic scenes. You might gravitate to one style or enjoy multiple. The key is to play and not be afraid of the learning process.
• Infrared’s Future: Looking ahead, experts speculate on where IR imaging might go. One interesting possibility is the integration of multi-spectral imaging in consumer devices. We already saw a hint of this when a smartphone (OnePlus 8 Pro) included a pseudo “IR camera” (actually just a color filter camera without IR cut) that could see through some plastics – it caused a stir and was partially disabled via software. While that was a novelty, it showed that even tiny sensors can capture IR. It’s feasible that future smartphones or consumer cameras could have modes or attachments for IR photography. Some companies make clip-on IR filters for phones, and if sensor manufacturers made it switchable (like an on-chip filter that can be turned on/off), we could have on-demand infrared vision in devices. Experts in the imaging sensor field have been researching organic sensors or layered sensors that could capture different spectra at once – if that ever comes to fruition, an image might include an IR layer by default which software could blend or use separately. In the short term, though, the IR community expects more of the same: incremental improvements. Possibly more dedicated IR offerings from companies if they see profit (maybe a Canon “RS” for super spectrum?). Or maybe a conversion service partnership with manufacturers (imagine sending your camera to Nikon and getting an official IR conversion – not happening yet, but if demand grows, who knows). Importantly, the artistic trend is that IR is moving from the fringes into the toolkit of many serious photographers. It used to be that IR prints hung mostly in alternative galleries, but now you’ll find IR images winning categories in landscape photography contests or featured in National Geographic (they’ve run a few IR shots in past years for creative impact). As drone photography exploded a few years ago, some think infrared photography could be a next frontier that more photographers try as a way to differentiate their work. It offers a fresh perspective at a time when billions of images are taken every year – IR can make people do a double-take, asking “How was this shot?” or “Is this Earth?” That reaction is gold for a photographer trying to stand out.

In conclusion, the experts’ take is that infrared photography has a bright (white-foliage) future. It combines scientific intrigue with artistic expression, and technology is making it ever more accessible. As long as there are curious minds with cameras, IR will continue to attract new devotees. The best advice from those in the know: give it a try! You might start with an old camera and a $30 filter, or dive in by buying a converted camera – but either way, you’ll be venturing into a hidden realm of the spectrum. As one IR photographer put it, shooting infrared is like “seeing the world with new eyes” – and who wouldn’t want to experience that?

Sources:

1. Kolari Vision – “What is Infrared Photography?” (explains IR light range and Wood Effect) kolarivision.com kolarivision.com
2. Canon Europe – Interview with David Clapp (pro photographer on creative use of IR) canon.ge canon.ge
3. Amateur Photographer – “Converting an older camera to infrared” by Geoff Harris (expert advice, DIY warnings, uses in lockdown) amateurphotographer.com amateurphotographer.com
4. LifePixel – IR Primer Chapter 4 (on DIY vs pro conversion, cautionary notes) lifepixel.com lifepixel.com
5. Spencer’s Camera – Recommended Cameras for Infrared (listing popular models for IR) kaitphotography.com.au
6. Nikonians.org – Introduction to Infrared (notes Nikon D70/D40 efficiency for IR) kaitphotography.com.au
7. Kolari Vision – “Choosing a Camera for IR” (mirrorless vs DSLR pros/cons) amateurphotographer.com amateurphotographer.com
8. Kolari Vision – “Best Infrared Cameras 2023” (camera model recommendations: Canon RP, Sony A6000, etc.) kolarivision.com kolarivision.com
9. Amateur Photographer – Kelvin Stonebrook quotes (on not DIY, mirrorless trend, filter choices) amateurphotographer.com amateurphotographer.com
10. PetaPixel – Fujifilm’s new IR cameras (2025) (purpose-built IR GFX100II and X-H2 IR details) petapixel.com petapixel.com
11. TechNexion – “How NIR cameras enhance night vision” (IR for surveillance at night) technexion.com
12. Kolari Vision – Infrared uses and applications (fine art, forensic, astro, medical, etc.) kolarivision.com kolarivision.com
13. Adorama – Interview with Nicholas Wong (IR photographer’s advice to experiment) adorama.com