Recently, I decided it might be a good idea to try Rollei Infrared 400 film with an actual IR filter while it’s nice and sunny out. That way, even with all the lost stops from the near black filter, I can still shoot handheld at a reasonable aperture/shutter speed. Usually with this film, I use a red filter for a more subtle effect, but was curious to see the difference.
I loaded a roll into my Rolleicord Vb and ventured out. It was shortly after that I remembered I don’t love shooting things that are alive. So I constantly forget to point my camera toward living things, and had to keep reminding myself that concrete structures just won’t do! What I did enjoy was shooting the IR on a TLR (non-SLR) & still being able to focus with the IR filter on the camera.
After all that, though the IR filter results in some interesting tonal effects, it’s not the ideal choice for shooting random city stuff, and would arguably benefit from more conscious consideration of subject matter. So for future aimless wanderings, my preference would be to continue using this film with a red filter for more subtle effects, and reserve the true infrared filter for those rare occasions when life conspired against me and I find myself in a more rural environment.
We do carry the FlicFilm IR 720nm filters, sizes and prices range from 49mm to 77mm and $25 – $40
https://www.beauphoto.com/product/flic-film-infrared-filters/
The Rollei IR 400 film is available in 35mm for $13.95 and 120 for $15.95
https://www.beauphoto.com/product/rollei-infrared-400/
We have many Rollei TLR cameras in store, from ‘flexes to ‘cords!
https://www.beauphoto.com/product/used-rolleicord-vb/
Here are a few of my Rollei IR photos –
