Comparing Color and Infrared Images

The differences between color and infrared images are striking. At 1000nm, the invisible near infrared portion of the spectrum contains no color information and so is "seen" by the camera essentially as a black and white image. Each of these images at the left were shot with the FujiFilm UVIR and our exclusive Hoya RM100 1000nm infrared passing filter. This RM100 filter blocks 100% of visible light and passes only infrared light to the CCD. Other filters on the market such as the R72, Wratten 87, etc. are not pure infrared filters and do transmit light from the red portion of the spectrum. This results in images with a red or pink hue. Even if converted to black and white in photoshop programs, the resulting image is not an infrared image but rather a deep red image shown as black and white.

Look closely at the images to the left. Infrared light highlights shape, texture and form. Because it penetrates the surface of plants and the human body, it creates a depth that is difficult to describe.

In the infrared images of the orchid, note how the stem almost appears to be made of rubber and the petals of the flower take on a depth and structure that is absent in the color image. The infrared photograph focuses on the essence of the orchid's form.

In the next two photos, note how the apple and the sarong on the model both lose their color in infrared, and the model's body takes on almost a marble-like look that seems to glow in the sun.

The two photos of a different model at the bottom were shot indoors with a flash. The color and pattern of the sarong disappear in the IR image, and infrared light reveals the veins in the model's forehead and chest.

These infrared characteristics and creative ways to shoot IR are explained in detail in our new book "Looking Into the Extreme End of the Near Infrared" available only through InfraredVideo.com