Infrared photography or IR photography has offered a complete new dimension to this field. Nowadays, many professional photographers are using infrared to create a completely different effect in a simple photograph. IR photography is completely different from any other types of photography and it requires special films for capturing the light effect needed for using this technology.
At A Glance
Infrared photography refers to a special type of photography, which uses films, which have infrared light sensitivity. By using infrared lights in a photograph one can bring special effects like false colors in a simple portrait.
When you are learning about the basics of infrared photography, you should also note that this type of photographs have the ability of penetrating light fog and haze in a successful way, to bring out a clear image. The wavelength of these photographs is also longer compared to visible light, which helps in obtaining a clearer image in spite of the pollution or dusts present in the air. Another major advantage of using infrared rays is it never produces any false color in black and white image until photographer selects the option of doing so. Though the use of IR technology has remained vital for black and white photography, it has become almost obsolete for color photography.
Different Types of Infrared Photography
Infrared photography has evolved greatly with time. Several new developments have taken place in this field and taking a glance through the different types of infrared photography is worth.
Analog:
Analog IR photography refers to the sub-division of infrared photography, which requires films that have stray light sensitivity. Someone who wants to practice Analog IR photography needs to use MACO IR820C or Kodak HIE Infrared films for the work, as these two films only offer sensitivity to stray lights. Before taking a snap, one should also ensure that mechanical frame counter is there in the camera.
Digital:
This is considered to be more popular than the Analog IR photography. Cameras, which are meant for digital IR photography comes with sensors that are highly sensitive to the infrared radiations. Sometimes, these cameras come with "IR Cut-off Filter" or "Hot Mirror" for blocking radiations, which can affect the image.
Applications
Though digital photography and HDR photography is now ruling the market, one cannot ignore the importance of infrared photography. For some applications, infrared photography is still considered to be the best choice.
- One of the most important applications of infrared photography is taking snaps in a dark room.
- Capturing wildlife at nighttime in complete darkness.
- Create a chalky appearance on the photograph by using IR photography in outdoors or indoors with the availability of clear lights.
- Capturing images during the state of war, where light availability is reduced during the night time.
There are several advantages of IR photography. You may read different books on the subject or visit photography forums to know more.