Last week, I got a camera that has been modified to photograph infrared (IR) images. Infrared images are made using light from a part of the spectrum that is not visible to the human eye. Although infrared films exist, it is easier to make IR photographs using a digital camera. In order to make the camera’s sensor “see” the IR light, you can either place an IR filter in front of your lens or you can modify the camera to remove the IR blocking filter (if one exists) and add a filter that blocks all or some of the visible light.

Because the way in which objects reflect infrared light is very different from how they reflect visible light, the tonal characteristics of IR photographs are unlike visible spectrum photographs of the same subjects. For example, IR images can be very contrasty, skies can be dark, and foliage can appear white, as in the image above. As a result, infrared photographs often have an exotic, or even alien, character. Allowing some visible light to reach the sensor can also create some interesting color effects.

 I took the camera to the Denver Botanic Gardens for a brief session to make some test photographs. With no real IR experience to guide me, I just started taking pictures of whatever turned my head. These two were my favorites. I’m looking forward to getting more experience with IR images, both black-and-white and color.

Yesterday I went to Brainard Lake with Louis Brad to photograph the full moon setting over the lake. We ended up also photographing a spectacular sunrise and a group of six bull moose that were happily munching their way through breakfast in the willows. This is my favorite from that morning.

A couple of weeks ago, I looked at this image of the 1951 Pontiac Eight that I photographed in Rochester, MN and wondered “What would happen if…” I love it when that happens – it always leads to some fun, creative time. And, sometimes, even great images. This time, I wondered what would happen if I added some texture to the image. After some experimentation, I ended up using two textures: old paint that was cracked and blistered and rusted metal. For me, the combination of these two textures enhance the feeling of transformation that I have when I photograph old automobiles. I also added a soft glow (Orton effect) to add an other-worldly feel.