I’ve been asked about infrared photography quite a bit lately, especially after sharing pictures captured with my full-spectrum Fujifilm X-T4 ES and the Aerochrome v2 Film Simulation Recipe on Instagram. Infrared is a fascinating genre of photography because it allows you to See Beyond the Visible™ (someone should trademark that…) by capturing light that your eyes can’t see. The results can be stunning and surreal. It’s definitely abstract, but in the best way possible.

Infrared photography is not new. It dates back to the early 1900’s, when special emulsions made it possible to record wavelengths just beyond visible light. At first, infrared film was used primarily for scientific and military purposes. In the 1940s, Kodak developed Aerochrome, a color infrared film designed for aerial reconnaissance. Soldiers could spot camouflaged objects because foliage would render in vivid reds and pinks, while man-made materials appeared in other colors. Artists later adopted Aerochrome for its unique false-color palette, using it to transform ordinary landscapes into psychedelic dreamscapes. Jimi Hendrix Are You Experienced? and Frank Zappa Hot Rats album covers brought infrared photography a bit more into the mainstream in the late-1960’s. While it was always a niche genre, infrared photography became less popular in the 1990’s, forcing Kodak to scale back production of their IR films. The rise of digital cameras was the final nail in the infrared film coffin.

Kodak discontinued Aerochrome production in 2009 (they continued to sell their stock for another two years, until they ran out). Nowadays, color infrared film is very difficult to find, and extremely expensive when you do find it. Digital cameras, however, opened up new possibilities. Modern camera sensors are inherently sensitive to infrared light, but an internal filter blocks it. By removing that filter—what’s called a full-spectrum conversion—you can once again see and photograph the invisible. The Fujifilm X-T4 ES (“Extended Spectrum”) is a factory-modified, full-spectrum version of the X-T4, and it’s perfect for exploring infrared photography. B&H had some available for purchase, but you had to inquire either over-the-phone or in-person; however, it’s now listed as discontinued, so they’re likely all sold out.

I have three Aerochrome Recipes for X-Trans IV and X-Trans V full-spectrum infrared cameras: Aerochrome v1, Aerochrome v2, and Aerochrome v3. Each mimics a different possible aesthetic of the film to various degrees. Of the three, Aerochrome v2 is my personal favorite. The Recipe was created specifically for full-spectrum Fujifilm cameras (particularly the X-T4 ES) paired with specific filters—in this case: Kolari Vision IR Chrome, Hoya G(XO) Yellow-Green & Tiffen Yellow 2 #8. It’s intended to replicate the look of Kodak Aerochrome, with pink/red foliage and cyan skies—delivering bold, dreamlike colors. Like all Fuji X Weekly Recipes, the goal is to get the desired aesthetic straight-out-of-camera. No lengthy editing sessions required; just program the settings, attach the right filters, and shoot.

I’ve used the Aerochrome v2 Recipe in a variety of locations—from the White Sands National Park in New Mexico to the streets of Philadelphia—and each time I’m amazed at how it transforms a scene. I especially love using it at the coast, which I was doing just last week (and where I photographed the pictures in this article). The way it renders foliage is stunning, and the overall color palette is wonderfully surreal. It’s a creative tool that makes you see the world differently.

If you want to dive deeper into infrared photography, go get yourself a full-spectrum converted camera, or have one you already own converted. The Fuji X Weekly App includes full-spectrum Recipes; in addition to the three Aerochrome options, you’ll find PurpleChrome, Cotton Candy Chrome, and Agfa 400S. Whether you’re chasing the look of discontinued films or just exploring unseen light, there’s likely a Recipe to suit your style; if not, I’m sure I’ll create several more over the coming months and years.

Infrared photography lets you step into a hidden world—one where the ordinary becomes extraordinary. With the right Fujifilm cameras and Film Simulation Recipes, you can experience the excitement of seeing beyond the visible yourself. No channel swaps or extensive edits. You can achieve the look straight-out-of-camera, just like Aerochrome shooters did decades ago… only now, you don’t need a darkroom (or patience as your film is at the lab), just a little curiosity and the right settings.