A Dabble With Infrared Photography
Being at a loose end can often lead to unexpected adventures. A photo walk along the River Humber near the village of Paull offered just that. Armed with a full spectrum modified Olympus PEN E-P1 and a 720Nm infrared filter, the day transformed into a visual exploration of nature’s contrasts.
The air was fresh, carrying the faint sounds of water lapping against the shore and the occasional rustle of grasses swaying in the breeze. As I ventured along the riverbank, the filter's impact on the landscape was immediately apparent. The standard colors of the scene morphed; greens became whites and deep blues turned into dark tones. The effects of infrared photography added an ethereal quality to the surroundings, providing a fresh perspective on familiar sights.
Trees, often overlooked, emerged with a ghostly brilliance, their leaves glowing bright while the riverscape turned into a backdrop of stark contrasts. The interplay of light and shadow carved out unique compositions, making even the simplest of scenes captivating. I found myself stopping frequently, framing shots that highlighted the surreal beauty of the environment—washed-out skies, vibrant foliage, and the soft textures of the bank.
Each click of the shutter felt like capturing a fleeting moment that conveyed more than just visual beauty. Here, along the Humber, nature revealed its intricacies in ways that a typical walk might not uncover. The combination of infrared and the fluid contours of the river created images that felt both otherworldly and intimately connected to the landscape.
As the walk progressed, I reflected on the beauty one can find in spontaneity. Sometimes, being at a loose end can lead to the most profound experiences, particularly when seen through a creatively curious lens. A simple walk turned into an opportunity for artistic expression, reminding me that inspiration often lies just beyond the path we know.
The dark sky added some real drama behind the lighthouse.
Infrared photography offers a unique perspective that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. As we approach the summer months, when sunlight can often be too harsh for conventional photography, infrared techniques present a refreshing alternative. This style captures wavelengths of light that are invisible to the naked eye, resulting in striking images characterized by surreal colors and ethereal landscapes.
By harnessing infrared photography during the brightest times of the year, photographers can explore a variety of scenes that might otherwise be overshadowed by sharp contrasts and washed-out details. The lush greens of foliage take on an almost otherworldly glow, while blue skies can become dramatic backdrops, enhancing the overall mood of the composition.
With the longer days of summer ahead, there is a palpable excitement in anticipating the many opportunities to experiment with this method. Armed with a camera modified for infrared capture, each outing becomes an adventure in creativity, allowing for exploration of local parks, urban landscapes, and scenic vistas—all transformed into dreamlike interpretations through this innovative lens.
As temperatures rise and nature bursts into full bloom, the ability to convert bright scenes into captivating infrared imagery makes for a remarkable shooting experience. The capabilities of infrared photography remind us that even in blazing sun, there are artistic avenues waiting to be traversed. It's time to look forward to summer and the enchanting possibilities that infrared photography can bring.
A failed attempt at a dark black sky.
Infrared photography often thrives under specific conditions that enhance its unique aesthetic. However, on this day, the circumstances were less than ideal. Overcast skies blanketed the landscape, diffusing sunlight and creating a flat light that dulled contrast. The typical vibrant hues of foliage were muted, limiting the vivid white foliage and deep black skies that infrared enthusiasts crave.
Humidity was higher than usual, leading to a slight haze that softened edges and made capturing crisp details challenging. This added atmospheric interference obscured the sharpness necessary for compelling infrared images. Additionally, a light breeze rustled through the trees, introducing movement that complicated long-exposure shots often favored in infrared photography.
Despite these setbacks, the opportunity to experiment with unconventional compositions and techniques emerged. While the less than perfect conditions thwarted some aspects of the photography process, they served as a reminder that beauty can be found in the unpredictability of nature. Embracing these challenges allowed for creative problem-solving, ultimately leading to a collection of images that may not fit traditional molds but still capture the essence of the moment in their own way.
A play of contrast between the white of the grass and the shadows of the leafless trees.
A cluster of trees made for a fun test of the infrared look.
The Olympus PEN E-P1, released in 2009, features a 12.3-megapixel Live MOS sensor, a Micro Four Thirds lens mount, and a compact, retro-styled body. It offers ISO sensitivity ranging from 100 to 3200, a fixed LCD screen, and the capability to shoot HD video at 720p. With a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000 sec and a burst mode of 3.5 frames per second, it was well-regarded for its time.
In 2025, the specifications of the E-P1 are not groundbreaking due to the significant advancements in camera technology over the past decade and a half. Modern mirrorless cameras typically feature higher megapixel counts, improved low-light performance with expanded ISO ranges, faster autofocus systems, and advanced video capabilities, including 4K and higher frame rates. Additionally, newer models often incorporate enhanced image stabilization, better connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and more sophisticated in-camera processing.
The compact design that was once a selling point is now commonplace, as many manufacturers have successfully integrated portability with superior performance. Overall, while the Olympus PEN E-P1 was innovative at its initial release, its specifications have been surpassed, rendering it less relevant in the current landscape of photography equipment.
Contrast between the metal fence and the white grass.
False colour infrared photography has its place, but personally, it doesn’t resonate with my artistic vision. The vibrant hues and surreal palettes can often distract from the true essence of a scene. Instead, I find a deeper connection with black and white photography, particularly when using high contrast.
The stark interplay of light and shadow in black and white images amplifies the mood and emotion of a landscape. It allows the viewer to focus on the composition, the textures, and the intricate details that might otherwise be overshadowed by color. High contrast adds a dramatic flair, highlighting the differences between light and dark areas, which can create a striking and powerful image.
This approach strips away the distractions, leaving behind a purer interpretation of the outdoors. It’s about capturing the soul of a landscape in its simplest form—a study of contrasts that invites contemplation and reflection. For me, the allure of black and white photography lies in its ability to evoke feelings and moods, presenting nature in a timeless state that transcends fleeting trends in color application.
A better attempt at the dark black sky.