As I’m putting together a presentation on infrared photography for one of the local camera clubs, I’ve been going through some of my IR portfolio, while looking for some comparison images. My intent is to provide my audience with a sense of how infrared photography can be used to create visually stunning images for landscapes that might otherwise look a bit dull.
Last year, I ventured out on multiple occasions, aiming to capture both regular and modified spectrum images specifically for this purpose. Each outing was a unique experience, exposing me to the diverse ways light interacts with the environment and how this can be translated into captivating visuals. The beauty of infrared photography lies in its ability to reveal details and contrasts that are often overlooked by the naked eye.
Let’s take a look at an image that I captured with my Fuji GFX 100S II; while the image is acceptable, it lacks the captivating elements that draw viewers in. It highlights certain features but doesn’t evoke a strong emotional response or sense of wonder.
I went out to capture some water images after extensive rainfall, which had drenched most of Massachusetts and beyond. The skies were still heavy with clouds, a lingering reminder of the storm that had just passed. As I approached the Connecticut River, the sheer volume of water moving downstream was astonishing. Although this image I initially captured gives a sense of the sheer scale of activity, a life force in the river, it lacked the dramatic flair that I was searching for.
So I mounted my Canon EOS 5D MkIII, which was converted by Kolari Vision with a 590nm infrared filter. This particular set-up is what I consider my secret weapon for transforming ordinary scenes into extraordinary captures. The infrared filter reveals the unseen; it allows me to capture this version of the same scene bathed in an ethereal glow. The lush greenery along the river banks appeared almost surreal, radiating with an otherworldly, dream-like quality.
This technique also accentuated the contrast between the white water rapids and the deep shadows, creating a visual drama that was absent in the previous image. The infrared photography adds layers of complexity to the photos, allowing the viewer to perceive nature in a new light—quite literally. Through this process, I not only captured the raw might of water but also the poetic beauty of the world transformed after a rain, inviting the viewer to ponder the relationship we maintain with such powerful natural elements.
This other-worldly image definitely packs a bit more of a punch, as it has great contrast between the colors, the caps on the water stand out more, and the pink of the foliage grabs attention. The vibrant hues create an almost surreal atmosphere, capturing the viewer’s eye and making the scene feel almost magical. The colors interplay with each other, drawing the viewer deeper into the image while inviting them to explore the details within.
Of course, there is a bit more processing involved for the second image, as it doesn’t come out of the camera looking anything like that! This processing is crucial in enhancing the original photograph’s impact. Adjustments like saturation, contrast, and brightness play significant roles in achieving that striking final look. Before any processing, the image may appear flat and less engaging, often lacking the vivid colors that are essential for conveying the intended mood. In fact, this is what it looks like before any processing, showcasing the raw, unedited version that serves as the foundation for the transformation into something extraordinary.
As you can see, this is a far cry from the final image above, which showcases the enhanced colors and intricate details that were not present in the original. We’ll go over the processing in another post or two, as there are some steps involved that are crucial to understanding the transformation. The use of software to manipulate color balance, contrast, and tonal adjustments can elevate an image from just “okay” to striking and unforgettable.
