A Familiar Landscape Transformed: Infrared Photography with KANI Filters
Article by Takuya Tamura
KANI has launched a new lineup of infrared filters, now available in three types: IR580, IR720, and IR850—each designed to pass only specific infrared wavelengths.
As someone who has been creating infrared photography works for over a decade, I am delighted that such specialized filters are now easily accessible within Japan. I had the privilege of supervising these filters over the course of a year, and I can confidently say they are finished to the highest standards.
Understanding the Wavelength Differences
Before diving into sample images and creative possibilities, it's important to note that each filter requires a different type of camera for proper use:
-
IR720 (passes wavelengths above 720nm)
→ Can be used with standard digital cameras (unmodified) -
IR580 and IR850
→ Require a converted digital camera with the built-in infrared-blocking filter removed by a professional technician
For those new to infrared photography, I highly recommend starting with the IR720 filter, which can be used on most consumer DSLRs or mirrorless cameras without modification.
Once you discover the unique beauty of infrared images, consider upgrading to a converted camera for deeper exploration. For more information, you can also check the Facebook group I manage, “Infrared Photography Club (赤外線写真同好会)”.
Filter Breakdown
▶ IR720
This filter blocks visible light below approximately 720nm and allows infrared light to pass through.
Because modern digital cameras are not entirely effective at blocking infrared wavelengths, some infrared light leaks through even on unmodified cameras—and this is what the IR720 takes advantage of.
You will typically need longer exposure times, but with today's high ISO capabilities, experimentation is easier than ever. The results are surreal: blue skies turn dark, foliage becomes snowy white, and familiar scenes transform into dreamlike environments.
See the World Differently
Infrared photography lets you reinterpret everyday scenes in completely new ways. What was once an ordinary landscape becomes something alien, mystical, or cinematic.
With KANI’s new IR filters, you have access to professional-grade optical quality, enabling you to pursue your creative vision with confidence.
More articles and image samples for IR580 and IR850 will follow soon.
Example -1
(Without Filter 、1/500,F8.ISO200)
Example -2
（IR720 Filter 、8s,F8,ISO200）
The first example shows a comparison between images with and without the filter. As you can see, by attaching the filter, an ordinary scene is completely transformed into something that looks like another world. (The photos were taken in monochrome mode; if shot in standard color mode, the image would appear entirely red.)
Example -3
（IR720 Filter 、15s,F8,ISO200）
Example - 4
（IR720 Filter、10s,F6.3,ISO200）
Example -5
（IR720 Filter 、1/4s,F4,ISO1600）
■IR580
This photo was taken using a modified digital camera (full-spectrum conversion) with the built-in infrared cut filter removed. By capturing infrared light that includes color information from lower wavelengths, you can create uniquely styled color images. The final color balance is adjusted through post-processing in image editing software, allowing for the creation of surreal hues known as "false color," which is popular among infrared photography enthusiasts. Since the colors and mood can vary depending on the adjustments, here are a few sample images to showcase the effects.
Example - 6
（IR580 Filter 、1/640s,F8,ISO320）
Example - 8
（IR580 Filter 、1/640 S,F8,ISO400）
■IR850
As with the IR580, the IR850 also requires a modified digital camera (full-spectrum conversion) with the built-in infrared cut filter removed. Using a converted camera improves light transmission, allowing even high-density filters to be used for handheld shooting.
The IR850 filter captures only infrared light with almost no visible color information. Therefore, it is not suitable for creating false-color images but is ideal for producing high-contrast black-and-white photographs. Leaves, which reflect infrared light due to their chlorophyll, appear white in the image—creating a scene that resembles a snowy landscape. This effect is often referred to as the "snow effect."
Example - 10
（IR850 Filter 、1/500 S ,F8,ISO6400）
Example - 11
（IR850 Filter、1/640 S ,F8,ISO4000）
Example -12
（IR850 Filter 、1/500S,F8,ISO6400）
Example - 13
（IR850 Filter 、1/640 S,F8,ISO10000）
Example -14
（IR850 Filter 、1/500S ,F8,ISO3200）
[Summary]
While each of the three filters has a distinct character, all of them—being high-quality KANI products—offered a reassuringly reliable performance. Infrared photography tends to be prone to flare and ghosting, but the excellent coating on these filters clearly sets them apart from many overseas brands. While such issues can't be completely eliminated due to the nature of infrared photography, if you’re currently dissatisfied with your existing infrared filter, now might be the perfect time to consider an upgrade.
For those trying infrared photography for the first time, using an unmodified camera with the IR720 filter is likely the most accessible option. However, it's important to note that this generally requires a tripod and long exposure settings. That said, thanks to the high quality of these filters, I also experimented with handheld shooting by increasing the ISO. Although the exposure value (EV) doesn’t directly correlate with infrared transmission, I found that in bright conditions, handheld shooting with a higher ISO is quite feasible.
I personally refer to today’s infrared photography as “Digital Infrared Photography.”
As shown in the sample images, the unique possibilities of digital—such as post-processing false color with color swapping, or adjusting ISO and white balance for monochrome output—offer a new dimension compared to the film era. And thanks to mirrorless cameras, visibility is maintained even when using dense infrared filters during live view shooting. While many may recall using infrared film in the film photography era, digital infrared opens up an entirely different world.
With the release of these high-quality infrared filters from KANI, I believe this will further boost interest in the genre, and I hope to see many more enthusiasts join the world of digital infrared photography.