Infrared
Starting at the limits of our vision at around 700nm, infrared (IR), is the spectrum of wavelengths longer than those of visible light. Whilst infrared extends for thousands of nanometers, the limit of what is commonly known as IR is around 1000nm.
For this reason, this band is sometimes called Near Infrared (NIR) to distinguish itself from other bands in the spectrum such as long-wave infrared (LWIR) – better known as thermal.
Applications
The most obvious and widespread use for infrared is to see in the dark, but there’s much more that infrared can be utilised for.
Landscape photography is a popular choice for infrared as colours can be manipulated for creative effect: white trees, red grass and pink skies are just some of the possibilities. Because infrared isn’t part of the visible spectrum, any colour combinations are completely valid.
Historically, infrared photography was even used for reconnaissance and as a counter-camouflage measure. By turning foliage red, people and vehicles would stand out from their surroundings of jungle or forest.
The colour of infrared
Because infrared is inherently outside of the visible spectrum, we can interpret this invisible world any way we like.
Do you want red grass, white trees, milky pastel tones or a strking black and white conversion? There’s no right or wrong way to process infrared images.
Is it safe?
Yes, in most scenarios, infrared light is safe to look at. However, the energy given off in the infrared spectrum is not just in the form of light, but heat as well.
Whilst our iris contracts to limit visible light, our eyes have no way of regulating infrared energy. Therefore you should not look directly into powerful IR sources in close proximity, as the heat can damage your eyes.
Typical infrared sources do not pose this hazard and the above warning is given as a precaution only.
FAQ
What is infrared?
Infrared is the part of the electromagnetic spectrum below red, starting at around 700nm, the edge of visible light, and extends to around 1000nm.
Whilst infrared is a form of light, it is also a source of heat energy.
What does infrared look like?
Depending on the camera and filter you’re using, infrared could take on a variety of looks.
Colour is processed in camera with the XA60 and you can choose from either a black and white or green ‘military night vision’ style.
In camera, the full spectrum FX3 will produce images with a heavy red or purple colour tone, depending on your white balance and filter used. You can then process this in whatever style you like, such as converting to black and white or channel swapping to produce pastel or white foliage.
What processing do I need to do to infrared images?
Using the Canon XA60 requires no special or additional processing beyond a typical colour grade. Footage can be used straight out of camera.
Photos and video from our full spectrum FX3 however may require extra work. Unless using the Aerochrome filter, which produces rich, hue-shifted colours in-camera, expect to post-process your files more than you typically would for regular photos or video. The contrast will be milky and you may need to mix or swap the RGB channels in order to produce the desired colours.
During shooting too, play around with the white balance and tint to find a suitable starting point – this will likely be at the extreme cool end to balance the excessive red tint.