Schneider B+W Infrared Filters for Digital Cameras

The difficulty of capturing infrared images with film has long limited the medium to the domain of a select few artistic, scientific or technical photographers. Now, using B+W Infrared Filters and the right digital SLR, anyone can create infrared images as easily as any other images.

�Perhaps nowhere else is the advantage of digital over film so obvious than in the long-mysterious world of infrared photography,� said Barry Rubin, Schneider Optics� Director of Sales and Marketing. �Now B+W filters make it easy for both enthusiasts and professionals alike to capture and create a full range of superior infrared images.�

It�s truly a quantum leap in creative power, time-savings and cost-savings for any photographer interested in infrared imaging.

Schneider Optics offers two B+W Infrared Filters for digital SLRs; the IR 092 and the IR 093. The B+W IR 092 is nearly opaque, and creates infrared images that also include a portion of the visible red spectrum, resulting in dynamic infrared/pure red images. The completely opaque B+W IR 093 Infrared Filter blocks the entire visible spectrum, resulting in pure infrared photographs without the visible red component. �The IR 093 is used often in scientific applications, materials research and forensics, where the limitation to a strictly infrared field is important,� explained Rubin, �However, its complete filtration of the visible spectrum allows for absolutely incredible artistic infrared images as well.�

Far easier than with film
When using film for infrared photography, it�s not possible to see your infrared image through the camera�s viewfinder, thus making it necessary to develop the film before seeing the results. Results are also difficult to predict, as there are no exposure meters that are sensitive exclusively to the sensitivity range of infrared films, thus much experimenting (and use of a great deal of film) is necessary.

With digital infrared photography, it�s possible to see your infrared image on the camera�s LCD monitor both before and immediately after taking the shot. �You know whether you�ve achieved the effect you�re looking for right on the spot, before taking the shot,� continued Rubin. �It�s truly a quantum leap in creative power, time-savings and cost-savings for any photographer interested in infrared imaging.�

Choosing the right digital camera
Ironically, while most less expensive digital cameras can capture infrared images, many high-end digital cameras cannot. This is because the professional versions of digital cameras often have a built-in infrared blocking filter to improve image quality. While most consumer-grade digital cameras allow infrared photography, a small number do include an infrared blocking filter, so if you intend to shoot infrared images, it�s important to check first with the manufacturer before purchasing a digital camera.

There is a simple test to determine if the digital camera you own now can capture infrared images. Just point a television remote directly at your camera�s lens and push any of the remote�s buttons. If you can see a light coming from the remote through your camera�s LCD, your camera can see and capture infrared images.

Available for a full range of digital SLRs
B+W Infrared Filters 092 and 093 are available with screw-on mounting rings to fit a wide range of digital SLR cameras, in sizes: 25mm, 25.5mm, 27mm, 28mm, 30mm, 30.5mm, 34mm, 35.5mm, 37mm, 37.5mm, 39mm, 40.5mm, 43mm, 46mm, 49mm, 52mm, 55mm, 58mm, 60mm, and 62mm. Manufacturer�s suggested retail price is $105.00.

The B+W difference
B+W filters are made to the same high technology standards used in the production of the world�s finest lenses. They are diamond cut from German Schott optical glass, then precision ground, polished and tested to the finest lens quality to ensure flatness and parallel thickness. This meticulous process ensures that every B+W filter is free from color aberrations and internal flaws. B+W MRC multicoating eliminates reflection and flare, while B+W Slim Line filters for wide-angle lenses eliminate vignetting caused by ordinary filters.

About Schneider Optics
Schneider Optics is a leading manufacturer and distributor of photographic equipment. It provides the world�s highest quality photographic optics, including world-renowned Schneider filters for motion picture and television production, B+W filters, lenses and accessories.


For more information contact Schneider Optics, Inc., 285 Oser Avenue, Hauppauge, New York, 11788, USA. TEL: 631 761-5000; FAX: 631 761-5090; visit http://www.schneideroptics.com.