How to Take Infrared Photos Using a Nikon Coolpix 950

The Nikon Coolpix 950 was the last of the Nikon Coolpix cameras made with an internal infrared filter that does not filter out all IR rays. This means that with the addition of an infrared filter fixed over the lens, the Coolpix 950 can capture more accurate infrared images than any of the later Nikon Coolpix models.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Nikon Coolpix 950
• IR filter
• Tripod

1. Purchase a Nikon Coolpix 950 and an infrared filter. The standard choices for the filter are the Hoya R72 and the Harrison & Harrison 98B. The 950 has a 28mm filter size but any size filter will work with an adapter that fits it onto a Nikon lens.

2. Set up the tripod, which you need because the IR filter is nearly black and the IR spectrum light takes a long time to pass through the filter so the exposure time is longer than in standard photography. The longer the lens diaphragm is open, the more necessary it is for the camera to remain still through the exposure because movement while the lens diaphragm is open blurs the image.

3. Secure the camera to the tripod without the filter.

4. Access the 950's exposure time through the "Menu" button on the camera. Lengthen the exposure time. Start with four seconds and bracket in both directions to get a feel for what different exposure lengths look like.

5. Focus the shot. Do this without the filter on because the camera can't focus automatically through the dense IR filter.

6. Attach the IR filter and take a shot. Preview the results and adjust the exposure time accordingly. Darker photos require more light and a longer exposure time.

7. Adjust the Nikon Coolpix's white balance to correct for too much red, blue or purple in the photo. Experiment to discover the balance you like best. Press the "Menu" button and scroll through the options until you find the white balance setting. Shoot with each of the white balance presets to see which one you like best.

Tips & Warnings

• An easier method of taking infrared pictures with a Nikon Coolpix 950 is to have the camera professionally modified to shoot only IR. In this process the internal IR blocking filter is removed and replaced with an internal IR filter that blocks everything IR spectrum light. An internal IR filter allows you to light meter, adjust white balance and focus directly through the viewfinder without the compensation required by dark external filters. Try the folks at Life Pixel for IR camera conversion.
• To order a Harrison & Harrison 98B filter, contact Will Harrison at [e-mail].
• There are multiple sites on the net explaining how to remove and replace the internal IR blocking filter yourself, but it's a dangerous and tricky procedure that easily ruins the camera. It also voids any and all Nikon warranties, so it's best to let the professionals handle it so you get a sound IR camera and don't end up voiding the warranty for nothing.