Infrared filter (IR)

Infraroodfilter (IR) · Lens & optics

A deep-red filter that passes only infrared light and blocks visible light, producing a surreal black-and-white or false-colour look.

Common types: 720nm (classic IR, white leaves, black sky), 590nm (golden, attractive for false colour), 850nm (pure black and white with no colour information). Not all cameras are IR-sensitive: most have a hot mirror that blocks infrared. Test with a TV remote in front of the lens: if you see the LED dot through the viewfinder, it works. For serious IR work, have the camera converted (Kolari, LifePixel). Set white balance manually on green grass for a natural IR colour balance.

Related terms: Zwart-wit fotografie · ND-filter

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