Infrared photography is a technique that involves capturing infrared light by blocking out all or some frequencies of visible light. The results are unique and otherworldly, and it’s fun to see what the world around you looks like when you capture it in this way.

While you might think that you need a specially adapted camera to partake in this hobby, you might be surprised to hear that you can use a plain old unmodified smartphone, too.

Yes, you can shoot infrared with a phone

Most cameras filter out as much infrared light as possible using what is known as a “hot mirror filter” that sits in front of the sensor. Digital SLR, mirrorless, and point-and-shoot cameras use this to block the vast majority of infrared light, at least enough so that regular exposure times aren’t too badly affected.

In order to effectively shoot infrared photographs with a regular camera, you need to perform what is known as an infrared conversion. This means opening up the camera and fully removing or replacing the hot mirror filter. It’s a fiddly job, and there’s a whole cottage industry dedicated to converting cameras (for a price).

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