IR Filter Options

Schneider Optics brand B+W filter #093 is a "black" filter. This means that it blocks out almost completely any visible light. These "black" filters are traditionally called IR, Infrared, filters because that is what light spectrum can pass through the glass. When using a #093 filter you must focus and take exposure readings before placing the filter on the lens. Because of the inability to see through the lens, a tripod is a good idea so that you do not lose your composition.

When using this filter with infrared film be sure to widely bracket your exposures from your initial reading without the filter in order to ensure a good image.

When using this filter with a digital camera your exposure time will likely be between 15 and 30 seconds so a tripod is a must. Digital camera sensors are sensitive to IR light so most manufacturers install IR blockers internally. These blockers are the cause for very long exposure times when using digital cameras for IR photography. The strength of these blockers varies from brand to brand. Pentax is one of the better sealed brands.

Because digital cameras record in color you will often see "false color" in IR images. Pentax produces a purple tint while other brands may create yellow, blue, or another tint.

This image shows the greyscale conversion of the false color image above. These conversions can be created in most digital darkroom software by changing the color profile to greyscale or by desaturating the colors.

Schneider Optics B+W brand filter #092 is referred to as a "dark red" filter. This filter still allows small amounts of visible light to enter the camera but the filter is extremely dark red. This dark red tint takes advantage of green appearing black under red light. This allows for a convincing IR approximation when the image is converted to a negative image and greyscale tone.