Capturing the Invisible: Creating a Surreal Landscape with the TruColor IR 720

Infrared (IR) photography reveals a world we can’t see with the naked eye. And this image is a perfect example of that transformation in action. Using the TruColor IR 720 Filter, a peaceful lakeside scene was reimagined into a bold, artistic composition.

The original setting was simple: a calm lake, a tree-lined shoreline and a partly cloudy sky. Under normal conditions, this scene would produce a beautiful but familiar photograph with greens, blues and soft reflections. But IR photography isn’t about capturing what’s visible. It’s about capturing how light behaves beyond human vision.

How the TruColor IR 720 Was Used
To create this image, the TruColor IR 720 Filter was mounted directly onto the lens. This filter is designed to:

• Block most visible light
• Transmit IR wavelengths (720nm and above)

This changes how the camera sensor records the scene.

Camera Setup

• Camera mounted on a tripod (essential for stability)
• Manual focus set prior to attaching the filter
• Low ISO to preserve image quality
• Narrow aperture (around f/8) for sharpness
• Long exposure to compensate for reduced light

Because the filter limits visible light, exposures are typically several seconds long, even in bright daylight.

What Happens to the Image
The dramatic transformation you see comes from how different materials interact with IR light: Foliage Becomes Luminous. Leaves and grass reflect IR light efficiently. In this image, the trees shift into bright red/pink tones, creating the signature IR look. Sky Deepens in Contrast. The sky absorbs more IR light than visible light. This results in a richer, more dramatic sky with enhanced cloud definition. Water Gains Depth. Water reflects less IR light. The lake appears darker and more mirror-like, amplifying reflections and contrast.

Why This Composition Works
This image was intentionally framed to maximize the IR effect:

• Foreground tree (left): Provides strong IR response and anchors the composition
• Distant tree line: Reinforces the glowing effect across the horizon
• Open sky: Adds contrast and texture
• Water reflection: Doubles the visual impact

The balance between these elements creates a scene that feels both natural and surreal at the same time.

The Artistic Advantage of IR 720
The TruColor IR 720 Filter sits at a sweet spot in infrared photography. At 720nm:

• You get strong infrared contrast
• There’s still enough signal for creative color processing
• Images can be rendered in false color (like this) or converted to high-contrast black and white

This flexibility makes it ideal for photographers exploring fine art, landscape or experimental styles.