How to Take an IR Photo
Infrared photography can be a challenge for even the most experienced of photographers, but it can also result in some of the most eye-catching images you will see when it is done well. This explains why an increasing number of photographers are taking up the challenge. Whether you decide to convert your camera, use infrared film or a filter, by following a few simple steps you will soon be taking impressive infrared photos.
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Instructions
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How to Take an IR Photo
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Use a tripod. When taking infrared pictures you will be using a long exposure setting. Consequently, any movement of camera shake will result in a blurred image. The tripod will provide you with a steady base from which you can take your photographs.
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Shoot your images in the RAW format. This will allow you to edit your images if you are not happy with them. Post processing your images can often leave them distorted; however, the higher level of detail captured in a RAW image should reduce the distortion if you are not satisfied with your original image.
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Focus manually. When shooting in IR focusing can be difficult, especially if you are using a filter. Therefore, your camera's auto-focus setting will not be sufficient; instead, you will have to adjust the lens yourself to focus manually. This will allow you to focus on the area that you want and will ensure the best possible outcome for your photo.
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Take pictures of objects with different ambient temperatures. A scene that includes a variety of different ambient temperatures will produce a better infrared image. You will acquire an image with a wide range of tones rather than a relatively flat image which would be the result of similar ambient temperatures.
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Experiment. The most important thing to remember is that practice makes perfect. Do not expect to take a stunning infrared photo on your first attempt. Take the time to experiment with different locations, different ambient temperatures and settings to discover what produces the best results.
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References
- Photo Credit desert landscape in infrared image by Larry Allen from Fotolia.com
