Best Infrared Filters for Digital Cameras: Expand Your IR Photography Options
Infrared filters for digital cameras open new creative possibilities by altering how your sensor captures light. Whether you want to emphasize moodier landscapes, accentuate foliage, or explore abstract textures through infrared wavelengths, these filters help you pass infrared light while blocking most visible light. This article highlights five infrared filter options that suit a range of camera brands and lens sizes, helping you choose the right one for your IR photography workflow.
Summary of selected products (at-a-glance):
| Product | Brand | Common Size |
|---|---|---|
| Six-in-One Adjustable Infrared Filter (58mm) | FOTGA | 58mm |
| Six-in-One Adjustable Infrared Filter (72mm) | FOTGA | 72mm |
| 6 in 1 Infrared Filter (52mm) | Runshuangyu | 52mm |
| 6 in 1 Infrared Filter (67mm) | Runshuangyu | 67mm |
| Six-in-One Infrared Filter (82mm) | Hersmay | 82mm |
Fotga 58mm Six-in-One Adjustable Infrared Filter
Fotga’s 58mm six-in-one infrared filter is designed for DSLR cameras to pass infrared wavelengths while blocking visible light. The product description notes its utility in environments with bright incandescent lighting to prevent unwanted heating and its relevance to cameras with high IR sensitivity. The filter appears visually dark to the eye but becomes transparent to infrared imaging, enabling a range of creative effects. The included adjustable wavelengths (530nm to 750nm variants) can help you balance contrast and depth in infrared scenes, while maintaining a practical single-filter setup for on-the-go shoots.
Fotga 72mm Six-in-One Adjustable Infrared Filter
This 72mm version mirrors Fotga’s 58mm model in purpose and design, offering a six-in-one adjustable infrared filter range. It is described as suitable for DSLR cameras with near-infrared sensitivity and is intended to pass IR light while blocking visible and ultraviolet wavelengths. The filter’s characteristic dark appearance aligns with standard infrared-transmitting filters, and the adjustable spectrum provides flexibility for different lighting conditions and subject matter—from foliage-rich scenes to night photography under artificial lighting.
Runshuangyu 52MM 6 in 1 Infrared IR Pass Filter
Runshuangyu’s 52mm 6-in-1 infrared filter offers a compact, all-in-one approach for photographers who want multiple infrared wavelengths without carrying separate filters. The product description highlights its ability to pass mid-infrared wavelengths while blocking visible light, a key requirement for infrared photography. It is designed for Canon, Nikon, Sony, Panasonic, Fuji, Kodak, and other DSLR systems, with a twist-to-adjust mechanism that allows quick changes in the infrared spectrum while shooting. The 530nm to 750nm range supports a versatile setup for landscape and architectural IR work.
Runshuangyu 67mm 6 in 1 Infrared Filter
This 67mm Runshuangyu model provides the same six-in-one adjustable infrared capabilities in a larger diameter, accommodating mid- to large-sized lenses. The description emphasizes infrared transmission while suppressing visible light, which helps achieve strong contrast between foliage and skies. Like other six-in-one designs, it reduces the need to swap filters during a shoot and supports a flexible range of wavelengths from 530nm to 750nm through a simple twist mechanism, aiding photographers seeking quick adaptation to changing scenes.
Hersmay Six-in-One Adjustable 82mm Infrared Filter
Hersmay’s 82mm six-in-one infrared filter targets larger lenses, offering the same adjustable IR pass design across 530nm to 750nm wavelengths. The product highlights infrared transmission properties while blocking visible and ultraviolet light, enabling strong infrared photography with a broader filter diameter. For photographers using telephotos, zooms, or specialty lenses with larger front elements, this model provides a convenient, multi-spectrum IR solution without frequent filter changes during shoots.
Buying Guide: Key Factors To Consider When Choosing Infrared Filters
- Wavelength range: Most six-in-one filters cover 530nm to 750nm. Consider whether you need a wider range (to include 680–750nm tones) or a narrower option for strong foliage contrast.
- Filter size compatibility: Match the filter diameter to your lens front element. Size options like 52mm, 58mm, 67mm, 72mm, and 82mm address different lens families from compact primes to telephoto zooms.
- Glass and coating quality: Look for optical glass with durable coatings to minimize reflections, color cast, and image softness. Some models mention coatings that reduce UV/visible leakage as well as scratch resistance.
- Adjustable vs. fixed: Six-in-one adjustable filters offer versatility without carrying multiple pieces, but ensure the twist mechanism is smooth and reliable for field use.
- Color and tonal characteristics: Infrared filtration can create lush red foliage and high-contrast skies, but results vary by sensor and lighting. Some filters may introduce a blue hue in the visible spectrum prior to IR imaging.
- Compatibility: Ensure the filter design matches your camera system and workflow. Some models are broadly compatible with Canon, Nikon, Sony, Panasonic, Fuji, and Kodak DSLRs.
- Durability and build: Aluminum frames and robust construction improve longevity, especially for outdoor shoots and frequent filter changes.
- Practical use cases: Consider whether you need a single versatile filter for travel or a dedicated set for studio and controlled lighting scenarios.
- Maintenance: Clean with proper lens cloths and keep the filter free of dust and smudges to preserve infrared transmission.
Infrared filters are often used to block visible light while passing infrared wavelengths, enabling dramatic effects such as bright red vegetation and dark skies. They can be especially effective when paired with long-exposure techniques or strong artificial lighting environments. The options reviewed here provide varied diameters and adjustable wavelength capabilities, helping you tailor infrared photography to your gear and shooting style.
When selecting an infrared filter, consider lens compatibility, the typical lighting conditions you face, and how often you plan to switch filters in the field. Adjustable six-in-one designs can simplify setups, while fixed options in specific sizes may offer slightly better transmission efficiency and fewer moving parts. This balance between versatility and optical quality determines how effectively you can capture compelling infrared imagery with your digital camera.