Dive into the captivating world of infrared photography and unlock a new dimension of visual expression. If you’re looking to capture ethereal landscapes, create otherworldly portraits, or experiment with surreal artistic effects, the right infrared filter is your essential tool. This guide is dedicated to helping you navigate the often-complex landscape of infrared filtration, cutting through the technical jargon to highlight the absolute best camera lens infrared filters available today. Prepare to discover how these specialized filters can transform your ordinary shots into extraordinary works of art, revealing a spectrum of light invisible to the naked eye.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic beginner, understanding the nuances of infrared photography begins with selecting the perfect filter. We’ve meticulously reviewed a range of options, evaluating their effectiveness, build quality, and the unique aesthetic they bring to your images. From deep blacks and luminous whites to the surprising rendering of foliage, the right infrared filter can redefine your photographic vision. Join us as we explore the top contenders and equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision, ensuring you find the best camera lens infrared filters to elevate your creative endeavors.
Before we get to our review of the best camera lens infrared filters, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
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Understanding Infrared Filters for Your Camera Lens
Infrared (IR) filters are specialized photographic accessories that block visible light while allowing infrared light to pass through to the camera’s sensor. This unique capability opens up a world of creative possibilities, enabling photographers to capture scenes in ways that are impossible with standard lenses. When you’re searching for the best camera lens infrared filters, you’re looking for tools that can transform everyday landscapes into ethereal, otherworldly visions.
The primary effect of an IR filter is its ability to dramatically alter the appearance of colors. White objects, like clouds or foliage, can appear bright white or even slightly luminous, while green vegetation often turns a striking white or light gray due to chlorophyll’s strong reflection of infrared light. Blue skies, on the other hand, can become incredibly dark, almost black, creating a stark contrast that emphasizes textures and shapes in your composition.
Beyond color manipulation, IR filters can also produce a surreal, dreamlike quality in images. This is often referred to as the “Wood Effect,” where foliage appears luminous and the overall scene gains a distinct, ethereal atmosphere. This effect is particularly popular for landscape and architectural photography, where it can add a unique artistic dimension and create images that stand out from the ordinary.
While infrared photography might seem complex, using an IR filter is relatively straightforward. However, it does require some adjustments to your shooting process. Due to the filter blocking visible light, you’ll need to use longer exposure times, often necessitating the use of a tripod to ensure sharp images. Experimentation is key to mastering the nuances of IR photography and achieving the most impactful results with your chosen filters.
5 Best Camera Lens Infrared Filters
Hoya R72 Infrared Filter – R72
The Hoya R72 is a classic choice for infrared photography, and for good reason. It blocks all visible light below 720nm, allowing only infrared light to pass through to your camera’s sensor. This results in those iconic stark white foliage and deep black skies that are hallmarks of IR photography. The filter itself is well-constructed with high-quality glass and a durable metal mounting ring, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor shooting. Its consistent performance across various lighting conditions makes it a reliable tool for both beginners and experienced infrared enthusiasts.
While the R72 is excellent, it does require a longer exposure time, especially in less than ideal lighting. This means you’ll likely need a tripod and a camera that handles noise well at higher ISOs or longer exposures. The viewfinder will appear almost completely black when the filter is attached, making manual focusing a bit of a challenge. However, with practice and understanding of your camera’s capabilities, the stunning and unique images you can achieve with the Hoya R72 are well worth the effort and slight learning curve.
KODAK Wratten 87 Infrared Filter – 87
The KODAK Wratten 87 filter is a staple in the world of infrared photography, known for its distinctive aesthetic and historical significance. Transmitting light primarily in the 700-800nm range, it produces a classic infrared look with very bright foliage and a rich, dark sky. These filters are often used in scientific and technical photography, but their artistic potential is undeniable. The quality of the filter material itself is excellent, offering good clarity and minimal distortion, which is crucial for capturing sharp infrared images.
It’s important to note that the Wratten 87 typically requires a significant increase in exposure time, often several stops longer than a visible light shot. This necessitates the use of a tripod and potentially remote shutter release to avoid camera shake. Focusing can also be tricky due to the filter’s opacity, so using live view or an infrared focus mark on your lens is highly recommended. Despite these considerations, the unique tonal rendition and classic IR look achievable with the KODAK Wratten 87 make it a fantastic choice for photographers seeking a specific, timeless infrared effect.
Singh-Ray 720nm Infrared Filter – 720nm
Singh-Ray is renowned for its premium optical filters, and their 720nm infrared filter is no exception. This filter allows for a strong infrared effect, blocking visible light and capturing infrared wavelengths from 720nm onwards. The build quality is exceptional, featuring top-grade glass with anti-reflective coatings that minimize flare and ghosting, contributing to cleaner and sharper infrared images. The precision machining of the mounting threads ensures a secure and easy fit onto most lenses, a testament to Singh-Ray’s commitment to quality craftsmanship.
The Singh-Ray 720nm filter delivers beautiful infrared results with vibrant white foliage and deep, dramatic skies. Like other IR filters, it will necessitate longer exposure times, especially in lower light conditions, making a tripod an essential accessory. Manual focus is also a consideration, as the viewfinder will be very dark. However, the consistent and high-quality output, coupled with the filter’s durability and excellent optical performance, makes the Singh-Ray 720nm a worthwhile investment for serious infrared photographers looking for professional-grade results.
Breakthrough Photography X4 Infrared Filter – 720nm
The Breakthrough Photography X4 Infrared filter represents a modern approach to infrared photography, boasting exceptional optical clarity and durability. This 720nm filter effectively blocks visible light, allowing only infrared wavelengths to reach the sensor, producing the characteristic infrared look. The X4 series is known for its robust construction, using high-quality Schott glass that is both durable and optically pure, minimizing common issues like chromatic aberration and vignetting. The multi-coated design enhances light transmission and helps reduce reflections.
Achieving infrared magic with the Breakthrough Photography X4 requires longer exposures, so a stable tripod is a must. The filter will significantly darken the viewfinder, demanding careful manual focusing, often aided by live view or lens markings. However, the payoff is consistently stunning images with a clean, natural infrared rendition. The clarity and color fidelity that Breakthrough Photography is known for translate exceptionally well into the infrared spectrum, making this filter a top choice for those who prioritize image quality and the longevity of their equipment.
Kolari Vision IR Chrome Filter – 830nm
The Kolari Vision IR Chrome filter operates at a different wavelength, typically around 830nm, offering a unique and often subtle infrared effect compared to lower-nm filters. This filter is designed for photographers seeking a distinctive, stylized look that can appear almost ethereal, with a strong emphasis on tonal gradation. Kolari Vision is known for its specialized infrared modifications and filters, and this offering is no exception, providing a premium build with excellent optical precision to ensure the best possible results.
Using the Kolari Vision IR Chrome filter will involve longer exposure times, making tripods essential for sharp images. The filter’s opacity means manual focusing will be challenging, and users will likely rely on live view or pre-focused shots. The distinct aesthetic produced by the 830nm transmission can be incredibly rewarding, offering a different palette of grays and whites than lower infrared filters. For those looking to experiment with less common infrared effects and achieve a truly unique look that stands out from standard IR images, the Kolari Vision IR Chrome filter is an excellent, albeit specialized, option.
Why Do People Need to Buy Camera Lens Infrared Filters?
Camera lens infrared filters, often referred to as IR filters, are specialized accessories that allow photographers to capture light invisible to the human eye. These filters block visible light, permitting only infrared (IR) radiation to pass through to the camera’s sensor. This selective transmission of light opens up a world of creative possibilities, enabling photographers to achieve unique and striking visual effects that are otherwise impossible.
The primary reason photographers utilize IR filters is to manipulate the way different materials reflect and absorb IR light. For instance, in landscape photography, foliage such as leaves and grass reflects IR light very strongly, appearing bright white or even glowing when captured through an IR filter. This creates an ethereal, surreal look, often referred to as the “Wood Effect,” which can transform an ordinary scene into something otherworldly.
Beyond aesthetic enhancements, IR filters can also be employed for practical purposes. In scientific and forensic photography, IR light can reveal details that are not apparent in the visible spectrum, such as identifying counterfeit documents or analyzing wear and tear on surfaces. Furthermore, some photographers use IR filters to achieve high-contrast black and white images with exceptionally clear skies and dramatically rendered clouds, adding depth and drama to their compositions. Discovering the best camera lens infrared filters will be key to unlocking these creative potentials.
Ultimately, the need for camera lens infrared filters stems from a desire to push the boundaries of traditional photography. They empower photographers to explore a different spectrum of light, resulting in images with unique textures, tones, and moods. Whether for artistic expression, specialized applications, or simply to experiment with new visual techniques, IR filters offer a powerful tool for those looking to expand their photographic repertoire and capture the world in a fundamentally different way.
Understanding Infrared Photography’s Visual Effects
Infrared photography offers a unique and often surreal aesthetic, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. One of its most striking characteristics is the “Wood Effect” or “Beech Effect,” where green foliage appears bright white or even pink. This occurs because chlorophyll, abundant in healthy plants, strongly reflects infrared light. Conversely, skies often turn a deep, velvety black, providing a dramatic contrast to the luminous landscape.
Beyond the classic Wood Effect, infrared filters also impact how different colors and materials interact with light. Water bodies can appear dark and mysterious, sometimes almost black, due to their low reflectivity in the infrared spectrum. Skin tones can take on an ethereal, almost translucent quality, with subtle details becoming more pronounced, leading to a distinct portrait style often favored by avant-garde photographers.
The way different textures respond to infrared light also contributes to the unique look. Smooth, reflective surfaces might appear bright, while rougher, absorbent surfaces can recede into darkness. This ability to render textures in a new light opens up creative possibilities for capturing architectural details, abstract patterns, and subtle atmospheric conditions that are invisible to the naked eye.
Choosing the Right Infrared Filter Wavelength
The effectiveness and visual output of an infrared filter are largely determined by the specific wavelength of infrared light it allows to pass through. Different wavelengths produce distinct aesthetic results, making the choice of filter crucial for achieving your desired photographic vision. Understanding these differences will help you select the filter that best suits your artistic goals.
Commonly available infrared filters include those that pass visible light (like UV/IR cut filters for astrophotography), near-infrared (NIR) filters, and mid-infrared (MIR) filters. NIR filters, typically around 720nm or 850nm, are popular for their dramatic black skies and white foliage. The lower the nanometer (e.g., 720nm), the more visible light still passes, resulting in a less extreme infrared effect.
As you move to higher nanometer ranges, such as 950nm or even higher for specialized filters, the visible light is almost entirely blocked. This results in a much purer infrared image, with more intense black skies and a greater emphasis on the infrared reflectivity of objects. However, these filters require longer exposure times and often necessitate manual focusing due to the shift in focal plane.
Technical Considerations for Infrared Camera Lenses
When venturing into infrared photography with lens filters, several technical aspects of your camera and lenses come into play. Modern digital cameras, particularly their sensors, are inherently sensitive to infrared light, which is why manufacturers often include IR-cut filters in front of the sensor. However, the effectiveness of your external IR filter can be influenced by the camera’s internal filtering.
A significant consideration is focus shift. Because infrared light has a different wavelength than visible light, it focuses at a slightly different point on the sensor. This means that when using infrared filters, especially those that block most visible light, you’ll need to compensate for this focus shift. Many lenses have an “IR focus mark,” a small line or dot, which indicates the adjusted focus point for infrared photography.
Furthermore, the compatibility of your lenses with infrared filters is important. While most filters thread onto the front of a lens, some very wide-angle lenses or internal-focusing lenses might present challenges. Additionally, the quality of the filter glass itself can impact image sharpness and the potential for unwanted reflections or color casts, especially when dealing with the extreme light conditions of infrared photography.
Advanced Infrared Photography Techniques and Post-Processing
Once you’ve mastered the basics of using infrared filters, there’s a world of advanced techniques and post-processing to explore. These methods can further enhance the surreal and artistic qualities of your infrared images, allowing for even greater creative control over the final output. Experimentation is key to discovering your unique infrared style.
One popular advanced technique is “false color” infrared processing. By manipulating the color channels in editing software, you can assign different infrared wavelengths to specific colors, creating vibrant and unexpected hues. For instance, you might map near-infrared data to the red channel, green to blue, and blue to green, resulting in images with psychedelic blues, purples, and greens.
Another technique involves stacking multiple infrared exposures or combining them with visible light exposures to achieve specific effects. This can be used to selectively bring back detail in shadow areas or to create composite images where the infrared rendition of objects is blended with their visible light appearance. Mastering these post-processing workflows is as crucial as selecting the right filter.
Your Definitive Guide to the Best Camera Lens Infrared Filters
Infrared (IR) photography unlocks a world beyond what the human eye can perceive, transforming ordinary scenes into ethereal landscapes with ghostly skies, vibrant foliage, and an almost surreal glow. To achieve these unique effects, you need specialized infrared filters that block visible light and allow infrared radiation to pass through to your camera’s sensor. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider when selecting the best camera lens infrared filters to elevate your photographic journey.
Understanding Infrared Wavelengths and Filter Types
Infrared light exists beyond the visible spectrum, typically measured in nanometers (nm). Different IR filters are designed to transmit specific ranges of this invisible light. For example, a 720nm filter is often considered a “near-infrared” filter, allowing a small amount of visible light to pass through, resulting in softer, more subtle IR effects. As you move to higher nm values, such as 830nm or 850nm, the filter blocks more visible light, leading to more dramatic and contrasty infrared images, often with a distinct black and white aesthetic.
The choice of IR wavelength significantly impacts the final image. Longer wavelengths (higher nm numbers) require longer exposure times and can be more challenging to work with, especially in changing light conditions. However, they offer the most pronounced and classic infrared look. Shorter wavelengths are more forgiving and can be used in a wider variety of situations, often producing striking color infrared effects when combined with specific white balance settings. Experimentation is key to understanding how different wavelengths translate into your desired visual style.
Compatibility with Your Camera and Lens
Ensuring your chosen infrared filter is compatible with your camera and lens is paramount. Filters are typically manufactured with specific thread sizes that screw onto the front of your lens. These thread sizes are usually printed on the lens barrel or cap, often indicated by a diameter symbol (Ø) followed by a number in millimeters (e.g., Ø77mm). It’s crucial to match the filter’s thread size precisely to your lens. Many photographers own multiple lenses with different thread sizes, which can lead to needing multiple filters.
To avoid purchasing individual filters for each lens, consider investing in a set of step-up or step-down rings. Step-up rings allow you to use a larger diameter filter on a smaller lens thread, while step-down rings do the opposite. This can be a cost-effective solution if you have several lenses with varying thread sizes, allowing you to share a single, larger filter across multiple lenses. Always double-check the compatibility and consider investing in a quality filter that will last across your lens collection.
Material and Optical Quality
The material and optical quality of an infrared filter directly influence the sharpness and clarity of your images. High-quality filters are typically made from optical glass, which offers superior clarity and minimal distortion compared to acrylic or resin filters. Optical glass also provides better scratch resistance and durability. Cheaper filters made from plastic or resin can introduce chromatic aberration, reduce sharpness, and be prone to scratches that can ruin your images.
When evaluating the optical quality, look for filters that are precisely ground and polished to minimize any refractive errors. A well-made IR filter should not degrade the image quality of your lens. Some manufacturers employ multi-coating techniques on their filters, which can further enhance light transmission and reduce internal reflections, leading to cleaner and more vibrant infrared images. Investing in a filter with excellent optical quality is an investment in the overall quality of your infrared photography.
Filter Coating and Durability
Beyond the base material, the coatings applied to an infrared filter play a vital role in its performance and longevity. Reputable manufacturers often apply anti-reflective coatings to minimize unwanted flare and ghosting, which can be particularly problematic in infrared photography due to the nature of IR light. These coatings also enhance the transmission of IR wavelengths, ensuring that more of the desired light reaches your sensor. Additionally, some coatings offer hydrophobic or oleophobic properties, making the filter easier to clean and resistant to fingerprints and smudges.
Durability is also a key consideration, especially for photographers who frequently shoot outdoors in various conditions. Filters made with hardened optical glass and robust coatings are more resistant to scratches, chips, and environmental damage. A well-built filter will withstand the rigors of travel and field use, maintaining its performance over time. Consider filters with protective cases or housings to ensure they are stored safely when not in use, further extending their lifespan.
Ease of Use and Workflow Integration
The ease with which you can integrate an infrared filter into your shooting workflow is an important practical consideration. Some filters, particularly those with very high IR blocking capabilities, require longer exposure times and can be challenging to use handheld, especially in lower light conditions. Filters that allow for a slightly wider aperture or faster shutter speeds can make handheld shooting more feasible, offering greater flexibility.
Furthermore, consider how the filter affects your camera’s autofocus and metering systems. While most modern cameras can still achieve focus with near-IR filters, highly opaque filters can sometimes interfere with these functions. It’s often recommended to pre-focus in manual mode or use live view for accurate focusing with strong IR filters. Understanding how the filter will impact your shooting process will help you choose the best camera lens infrared filters for your specific needs and photographic style.
Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews
When venturing into specialized photography gear like infrared filters, leaning on the expertise and experiences of others can be invaluable. Researching brands that have a solid reputation in the photography filter market is a wise first step. Established manufacturers often have a track record of producing high-quality, reliable products, backed by consistent performance and customer satisfaction. Look for brands that are known for their optical engineering and commitment to photographic innovation.
Beyond brand reputation, delving into customer reviews is essential. Real-world experiences from other photographers can offer candid insights into a filter’s performance, durability, and ease of use. Pay attention to reviews that discuss specific use cases, comparisons with other filters, and any potential drawbacks. Websites that aggregate reviews or photography forums are excellent places to gather this user-generated feedback, helping you make an informed decision on the best camera lens infrared filters for your kit.
FAQs
What exactly is an infrared (IR) camera lens filter?
An infrared (IR) camera lens filter is a specialized optical filter designed to block visible light while allowing infrared light to pass through to your camera’s sensor. Think of it as a selective gate for light. Most cameras are sensitive to infrared light, but without a filter, they capture a mix of visible and IR light. This filter ensures that only the infrared spectrum is recorded, leading to unique and often dramatic photographic effects.
These filters are crucial for photographers aiming to achieve specific artistic or scientific outcomes. They manipulate how different subjects reflect and absorb infrared radiation, resulting in tonal shifts, bright whites for vegetation, dark skies, and sometimes even “ghostly” appearances of certain objects. They are a key tool for infrared photography enthusiasts and those exploring advanced photographic techniques.
What are the primary benefits of using an IR filter?
The main benefit of using an IR filter is the ability to create striking infrared photography effects that are impossible to achieve with standard visible light photography. This includes the iconic “Wood Effect,” where green foliage appears bright white or light-colored, and skies turn dark and moody, often enhancing cloud detail dramatically. It can also make water appear dark and reflective, and can reveal hidden details in textures.
Beyond artistic expression, IR filters have practical applications in scientific and technical photography. They can be used for surveillance, detecting heat signatures, analyzing plant health, or even for forensic photography. For the enthusiast, however, the primary draw is the unique aesthetic it lends to landscapes, portraits, and abstract compositions, offering a fresh perspective on familiar subjects.
What are the different types of IR filters available?
IR filters are generally categorized by the specific infrared wavelengths they allow to pass. Common types include Near Infrared (NIR) filters, which transmit light in the near-infrared spectrum (typically around 700nm to 1000nm). Within this range, you’ll find filters with different cut-off points, such as 720nm, 850nm, and 950nm, each producing slightly different effects.
The choice of filter depends on the desired outcome and your camera’s sensitivity. For general infrared landscape photography, a 720nm or 850nm filter is often a good starting point. Higher nanometer filters, like 950nm, block almost all visible light, producing a more intense infrared effect, but they also require longer exposure times and careful handling to avoid overexposure. Some filters might also be designed with specific coatings to reduce unwanted reflections or enhance transmission.
How do I choose the right IR filter for my camera?
When choosing an IR filter, consider the type of photography you intend to do and the desired aesthetic. For landscape photography with a focus on the “Wood Effect,” a 720nm or 850nm filter is a popular choice. If you want a more dramatic and pure infrared look, blocking more visible light, a 950nm filter might be more suitable, though it requires more specialized shooting techniques.
You should also consider the filter’s construction and compatibility with your lenses. Ensure the filter is the correct thread size for your lens or consider purchasing a set with various step-up/step-down rings. Look for high-quality glass to avoid image degradation and consider brands known for their optical performance in infrared. It’s also helpful to research examples of work shot with specific IR filters to understand their typical results.
What camera settings should I use when shooting with an IR filter?
Shooting with an IR filter often requires a shift in your usual camera settings. Since IR light has different properties than visible light, manual focus is highly recommended. You’ll need to recalibrate your focus for infrared, often by marking a focus point on a lens or using a dedicated IR focus scale if your lens has one. Due to the dark nature of the filter, you’ll also need to use longer exposure times, so shooting on a tripod is essential.
Exposure compensation will vary depending on the filter’s nanometer rating and the lighting conditions. Start with an ISO of 100 or 200 to minimize digital noise. Experiment with aperture settings – f/8 or f/11 are often good for landscape work. The key is to bracket your exposures and experiment with shutter speeds until you achieve a well-exposed image where the infrared effect is clearly visible. Post-processing, especially white balance and channel swapping, is a critical step in realizing the full potential of IR photography.
Do I need a special camera for infrared photography?
While dedicated infrared cameras exist, most standard digital cameras are capable of capturing infrared light to some degree. The primary obstacle is the IR-cut filter that manufacturers include in most consumer cameras to prevent infrared interference with normal photography. This filter blocks most infrared light from reaching the sensor. However, many cameras still allow a small amount of near-infrared light to pass through, which can be enough for some basic IR effects, especially with higher nanometer filters.
For more serious or consistent infrared photography, photographers often choose to have their cameras modified. This involves removing the camera’s internal IR-cut filter and replacing it with a clear glass or a filter that passes specific IR wavelengths. This modification makes the camera much more sensitive to infrared light, allowing for shorter exposure times and a more pronounced infrared effect, even with lower nanometer filters. It also opens up the possibility of shooting in the full infrared spectrum without the need for extremely dark filters.
How much do IR filters typically cost?
The cost of infrared filters can vary significantly based on several factors, including the brand, the quality of the glass, the nanometer rating, and the filter diameter. Entry-level filters for smaller lens diameters might be available for as little as $30 to $50. However, for higher-quality filters from reputable optical brands, especially for larger lens diameters, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 or even more.
The price also reflects the precision required in manufacturing these filters to ensure they effectively block visible light while allowing the desired IR wavelengths to pass with minimal distortion or color fringing. Filters with higher nanometer ratings (e.g., 950nm) or those designed for specific scientific applications can also command a premium. Investing in a good quality filter is generally recommended to achieve the best possible results and avoid image quality issues.
Final Words
Ultimately, investing in the best camera lens infrared filters is a decision that empowers photographers to explore the unseen spectrum and unlock truly transformative creative potential. From the ethereal glow of infrared landscapes to the captivating monochrome magic that infrared photography is known for, the right filter can dramatically elevate your imagery. By understanding the distinct properties of different IR filters and considering your specific photographic goals, you can confidently select the tool that will push your artistic boundaries and deliver stunning, unique results, setting your work apart.
Don’t let the nuances of infrared photography deter you; with the insights gained from this comprehensive guide, you are now well-equipped to navigate the world of IR filters. Embrace the opportunity to experiment, discover new visual languages, and captivate your audience with the otherworldly beauty that infrared photography offers. Choose wisely, shoot with intention, and prepare to be amazed by the extraordinary images you can create.