Infrared & UV Photography

Discover a hidden world of color

The world we see is only one version of what really exists. Light is made up of different wavelengths, which results in an array of colors we then perceive (think of a rainbow). However.. there’s more. Beyond visible color is a hidden world of glowing pinks, yellows, blues and more, enter infrared photography (IR photography).

This is an outdoor workshop built around making IR images. At the beginning of class, you’ll receive a BPW IR camera and a set of specialty filters, we’ll get you comfortable with settings and set-up, then spend the rest of our time outside photographing.

Overview / how it works

Before class: When you sign up, we share a brief video which introduces IR photography, the three filters you’ll use - and the looks each one creates. Watching is encouraged but not required.

In the field: We meet near our shooting location in a public space (typically a cafe) and take a few minutes to get your gear ready and make sure everyone is set for action. Then we head out. The walk is guided and runs in three short stretches, one filter at a time, so you get real time to play with each effect instead of rushing between them.

At the end of class, there are three ways to receive your photos:

• Download (included): within ~48hrs we share your photos thru a private link you can use to download. Simple.

• Bring your own card: bring an empty SD card and we’ll get it ready at the start. Your photos travel home with you the same day.

• Take-home card ($10): forgot to bring a card, or just prefer ours? Keep the memory card and the photos. We’ll share a pay link after class.

What you'll learn

• What infrared photography is, and why it creates these effects

• How to set up and shoot a modified camera (the settings are simpler than they sound)

• How to work with each of the three filters, and when to reach for which

• How to compose for the infrared look and pick the subjects that work best in it

Editing has its own companion class, so this session stays focused on getting you outside and making photos.

Provided:

• A modified full-spectrum camera to use for the whole class

• Three specialty filters

• A field cheat sheet with your camera settings and a quick guide to each filter

• A short intro video before class

What to Bring: 

• Comfortable walking shoes (the pace is easy, with lots of stops)

• Weather-appropriate clothing and sun protection

• An empty SD card, optional, if you want your photos the same day (see Getting your photos)

• A notepad, if you like to take notes
  

Recommended

This class is beginner-friendly. If you can find your way around your camera's manual settings, you are ready. No infrared experience and no editing know-how needed, just some curiosity about what your camera can see when you give it the chance.

• Digital Cameras 1, Camera Basics 1-3, or equivalent

Want to learn more about IR & UV Photography? Read our latest article by the instructor.