Infrared photography is often associated with harsh midday sun, but Jason Friend challenges this notion. Through his work at St. Andrew's Church, he demonstrates that infrared can be effectively utilized at various times of the day, not just during the peak hours of summer. This article explores the potential of infrared photography beyond the conventional, offering a unique perspective on lighting and composition.
Friend's approach to infrared photography is a thoughtful and deliberate one. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and treating infrared light like any other light source. By waiting for the light to soften, drop, and cast shadows, he achieves more natural and visually appealing results. This technique is particularly useful when capturing the hopper mausoleum in the graveyard, which he expects to look striking in infrared.
The article delves into the technical aspects of Friend's workflow. He uses a full-spectrum Sony body with an infrared filter, adjusting settings such as base ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. The use of a tripod and self-timer ensures stability and precision. Friend's lens choices are strategic, with a 28mm lens for scouting angles and a 20mm lens for exaggerating the foreground and adding a sense of width to the composition. He also demonstrates post-processing techniques, including Lightroom's generative removal feature, which raises ethical questions about altering reality.
One of the key insights from this article is the applicability of infrared photography beyond the conventional. Friend highlights the principle of golden-hour thinking, which is relevant to infrared just as it is to color landscapes. The directional light and long shadows during golden hours shape the photo regardless of the wavelengths recorded by the sensor. This shift in timing is cost-effective and can be applied to any conversion or filter, making infrared photography accessible to a wider range of photographers.
In conclusion, this article encourages photographers to explore infrared photography at different times of the day and with various techniques. By embracing the unique qualities of infrared light and understanding its interaction with the environment, photographers can create captivating and thought-provoking images. Friend's work serves as a testament to the versatility and artistic potential of infrared photography, inspiring others to experiment and push the boundaries of their craft.
