Let's Get Digital

Photo Art lesson 6:
Imitating feel and mode of monochrome infrared photography.

In every workshop, I get one or two participants that are in love with look and feel (mode) of monochrome infrared photography. This visual guide is probably the quickest way to get you there. However, it's not the only way. May I also remind you that the unpredictable nature of infrared added to experimental discovery makes every image different. With that in mind, we will try not to mechanically copy the process but discover and create mystique of infrared with Photoshop.

What is the major distinction of infrared photography.

1 - Sepia tones of black and light pink mixed together.
2 - Color shift of blue to black, green towards white , and red to brownish.
3 - Breakdown of edges as colors make transition.
4 - High tone exaggerated contrast.
5 - The dream-like and surrealistic feel of image.

We begin by making a copy of original layer,

a) so you have a backup in case you want go back.
b) and, so you have a comparison from your starting point.

   1. Adjust your color using Levels or Curves.

   2. Now we will turn the image to black and white at the same time we will exaggerate the contrast as part of an over all plan,
   --By lowering red channel information we will make room to get more green channel information in.---

Go to new adjustment layer and create a layer. From the dropdown list, pick up " channel mixer." At the bottom of the menu you will see monochrome option. Turn it on and set your settings as you see on the left.

3. In this step we will try to create the beige/pink color which is a trade mark of infrared sepia colors.

4. Create another new adjustment layer, this time chose Level as you see in this image.
Choose green channel and move the right triangle (output level) to the left. In my monitor about 228 (you will notice your b&w image is getting a pink color.)

5- Choose the Blue channel and set the output right triangle to 194. (You should get close to image below.)

Note: This rich beige with a hint of pink color takes over all area of image which was white. While shadow areas keep their shade of gray and brown. Since you are in RGB mode you can continue adjustment if you are unhappy with the result.

You do need to practice with different settings to find your favorite colors that reflect your personal style.

The only missing part is creating a dream-like blur in this image which has been explained in Lesson #4 and Lesson #5 where we dealt with creative masking for more complex effect.

All images and text are property of Lenscape Workshops .

Abe Rafiq Managing Director of Lenscape Workshops Ltd.

URL: http://www.lenscape.com/