Instant Infrared

Lauren Scott shows you how to create an IR effect with a specialist filter

Back in the day, infrared photography used to be a complex and slightly unsatisfying process.

Here in the digital era, however, the technique is pretty foolproof. In this project, we’ll show you how to take stunning, somewhat eerie, infrared images without having to convert your existing camera.

To a get started, you’ll need a circular IR filter to fit your lens. Once screwed on, this prevents visible light from passing through while allowing IR light to reach the camera sensor. Using an IR filter in practice is simple, but it does still pose some challenges. The filter blocks out visible light, so your exposures will need to be longer to compensate. A stable tripod is vital for avoiding camera shake. As IR filters are inherently very dark, you’ll have to prefocus on the scene before attaching the filter.

To avoid blur, choose subjects that are inanimate – think trees, buildings and landscapes. For the best results, aim to include foliage in your images to break them up.

DSLR TECHNIQUES GET THE GLOW

Don’t overcomplicate your composition! Follow these steps for lovely leaves

01 ON ARRIVAL

You don’t need bright sunlight for the effect, but you should shoot in a location with foliage. Before setting up, mount your Canon on a tripod to avoid camera shake – the IR filter blocks out light and requires longer shutter speeds.

02 ON FRAMING