Aerochrome | FUJI X WEEKLY

Aerochrome v2 — Fujifilm X-T3/X-T30 Full Spectrum Infrared Film Simulation Recipe

*Red Coast* – Fort Bragg, CA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – This new Aerochrome v2 Recipe

Last year, I started my infrared photography journey when I purchased a Fujifilm X-T4 ES full-spectrum IR camera. Since then, I’ve published seven infrared Film Simulation Recipes for the X-T4 ES, which can also be used on full-spectrum converted X-Trans IV (except the X-T3 & X-T30) and X-Trans V cameras. You must have a full-spectrum model to use these Recipes, which requires an expensive and invasive procedure from a third-party vendor; otherwise, the X-T4 ES (“Extended Spectrum”) is a full-spectrum camera briefly offered by Fujifilm to the general public (it’s very difficult to find, but in my opinion totally worth owning). If you have a “normal” (non-converted) camera, these Recipes will not work.

One camera that people have commonly converted (as common as it gets, anyway) is the Fujifilm X-T3. While the X-T3 is X-Trans IV, it has JPEG options more similar to X-Trans III—it’s missing some that are available on later X-Trans IV models. Because of this, my seven infrared Recipes won’t work on a full-spectrum converted X-T3 or X-T30. Dan Allan has a full-spectrum X-T3, and he really wanted to use my Aerochrome v2 Recipe, so he modified it to be compatible with his camera. It’s not 100% the same, but pretty close, and quite nice. Those with a full-spectrum converted X-T3 or X-T30 can now join the infrared Recipe fun!

Above Left: Original Fujifilm X-T4 ES Aerochrome v2 Recipe; Above Right: This new Aerochrome v2 Recipe for the X-T3/X-T30.

Dan was kind to share his modification with me (and all of you), and also allowed me to publish his wonderful photos in this article, which you’ll find below (thank you, Dan!). If you have an X-Trans III full-spectrum model, this Recipe will work by ignoring Color Chrome Effect, but it will render a little different (feel free to try, though). If you have a Fujifilm X-T4 ES—or an X-Trans IV (other than the X-T3 & X-T30) or X-Trans V camera that has been full-spectrum modified—this Recipe will work by choosing Grain size Small, Color Chrome FX Blue set to Off, and Clarity set to 0. Depending on your preferences, you might actually like this version a bit better. The blue sky is the most obvious difference (interestingly, it seems slightly less divergent in Dan’s pictures than in the set above), but there are other more subtle variances; however, the overall vibe is the same between the original Aerochrome V2 Recipe and the new version. This Recipe requires three filters: Kolari Vision IR Chrome filter, Hoya G(XO) Yellow-Green filter and Tiffen Yellow 2 #8 filter. The IR Chrome filter is intended for infrared photography, while the Yellow-Green and Yellow filters are for B&W film. I’m not sure if the order matters, but I have the Yellow filter first (closest to the lens), the IR Chrome next, and the Yellow-Green last (furthest from the lens).

Edit: Dan informed me that he has the IR Chrome filter first (closest to the lens), followed by the G(XO), and then the Yellow 2 #8 (furthest from the lens). He isn’t sure if the order matters, but it might. He also wanted to mention that his conversion was with Kolari, with their anti-reflection glass, which might have a minimal impact on the outcome vs the X-T4 ES.

Filters: Kolari Vision IR Chrome, Hoya G(XO) Yellow-Green & Tiffen Yellow 2 #8
Film Simulation: Velvia
Dynamic Range: DR400
Grain Effect: Strong
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
White Balance: 5000K, +7 Red & +7 Blue
Highlight: +2
Shadow: 0
Color: +4
Sharpness: 0
High ISO NR: -4
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: 0 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured by Dan Allen using this Aerochrome v2 Film Simulation Recipe on his full-spectrum converted Fujifilm X-T3:

*Full-Spectrum Fujifilm X-T3 & Aerochrome v2 Recipe — Photo by Dan Allen*

Find this Aerochrome v2 and other IR Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App, available for both Android and Apple.

See Beyond the Visible with Infrared Photography

Posted on August 12 by Ritchie Roesch

*Pacific Vista* – Elk, CA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

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.

*Bird, Watching* – Bodega Bay, CA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

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.

*Pacific Dusk* – Elk, CA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

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.

Aerochrome v3 — Fujifilm X-T4 ES (Full Spectrum Infrared) Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on January 21 by Ritchie Roesch

*Red Palm* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v3

This is a brand new Aerochrome-like Infrared Recipe. It’s not for “normal” cameras; you must have a full spectrum X-Trans IV or X-Trans V model, which requires an expensive and invasive procedure from a third-party vendor like LifePixel, Kolari Vision, or Spenser’s Camera (to name a few). Otherwise, the Fujifilm X-T4 ES (“Extended Spectrum”) is a full spectrum camera (is sensitive to light outside the visible gamut) briefly offered by Fujifilm to the general public. As of this writing, I believe that you can still buy the Fujifilm X-T4 ES from B&H, but it requires a phone call or in-person visit, and cannot be ordered from the internet.

Aerochrome v3 sits in-between—and bridges the gap between—Aerochrome v1 and Aerochrome v2; however, it is notably different from both, and even has some surprising commonality to Cotton Candy Chrome upon close inspection. That’s because it uses the Classic Negative film simulation instead of Velvia, which gives it a more pronounced analog feel, but also is more of a negative film look than slide film (real Aerochrome was a slide film). In that sense, this might be viewed as the least accurate version, but it’s also very easy to appreciate the aesthetic of this Aerochrome v3 Recipe, which is just lovely. While v2 is my personal favorite, I think some of you are really going to like this one. Because X-Trans V renders blue more deeply on some film simulations, including Classic Negative, if you have a full spectrum converted X-Trans V camera, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak instead of Strong.

*Iowa Water* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v3

Aside from having a full spectrum camera (like the X-T4 ES), this Recipe requires three filters: True Color Infrared Autumnizer (Turquoise), Hoya G(XO) Yellow-Green filter and Tiffen Yellow 2 #8 filter. The True Color Infrared Autumnizer (Turquoise) filter is simply a QB19 Blue filter and LB18 Green filter combined into one, and can be found on AliExpress. If you choose to use a QB19 and LB18, then you’d have four filters instead of three. I was a little hesitant to buy the Autumnizer (Turquoise) filter (because I had never purchased anything from AliExpress before, and saw mixed reviews regarding the platform), but thankfully the process turned out to be smooth. The Autumnizer is intended for infrared photography, while the Yellow-Green and Yellow filters are for B&W film. I’m not sure if the order matters, but I have the Yellow filter first (closest to the lens), the Autumnizer next, and the Yellow-Green last (furthest from the lens).

Filters: True Color Infrared Autumnizer (Turquoise), Hoya G(XO) Yellow-Green & Tiffen Yellow 2 #8
Film Simulation: Classic Negative
Dynamic Range: DR400
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Strong
White Balance: Daylight, +9 Red & +8 Blue
Highlight: -1.5
Shadow: -0.5
Color: +4
Sharpness: -1
High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -2
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: -1/3 to +1/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Aerochrome v3 Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T4 ES:

*Air Dancer* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Four Lamps* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Tree Fingers* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Bright Tree, Dark Tree* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Pink Leaves* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Hidden Craftsman* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Two Palms in the Suburbs* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Little Flag* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Backlit Infrared Joy* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Joshua, Indoor Infrared* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Jon, A Cut Above the Rest* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Not Abbey Road* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Brick Staircase & Jeep* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Brick Staircase* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Parking* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Nike Walk* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Buckeyes* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Chicken* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Cardinal* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Lonely Chair* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Sunlit Bougainvillea Branch* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Desert Bricks* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Cool Cat* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Skyjack* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Descending Stairs* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Globe* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

Philadelphia in Aerochrome — Infrared Photography in the City of Brotherly Love

Posted on November 22, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*A Fall Day in Philly* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

I had a great time in Philadelphia this last weekend with Allan Ali at Unique Photo as a part of their two day Camera Show. Allan and I led a photowalk through the Old City. There were about 70 in attendance, which was amazing—it just edged out Denver as the largest photowalk that I’ve hosted. It was such an honor to have been a part of the Camera Show. I don’t know if there are very many other stores that are doing what Unique Photo is doing. The photographers in Philadelphia are incredibly fortunate.

I brought my Fujifilm X-T4 ES (“Extended Spectrum”) infrared camera with me to Philadelphia. This camera is a ton of fun, and it’s also a great conversation piece. It’s a “wow” camera, and people are really intrigued by it. I think if it were more widely known and available, people would buy it in much larger numbers. I had my Aerochrome v2 Recipe programmed into the X-T4 ES, and used it quite a bit on the photowalk.

*Corn Exchange* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

Probably the top genre for infrared photography is landscapes. The false color rendering lends itself well for photos that are bold and a bit abstract, especially when there are lots of trees and other vegetation. I’m sure that there are some doing IR urban and street photography, but probably not many. I enjoy using the X-T4 ES in unexpected ways, as it’s really a different way to see the world around you, and also serendipitous, with a lot of surprising results. I don’t know if I can convey through words just how much enjoyment that I’m getting out of this camera, but I’m really loving it!

The Fujifilm X-T4 ES with my Aerochrome v2 Recipe—due to the false colors—turns spring and summer into autumn, and it turns autumn into a more rich display—it’s like fall on steroids. With this camera and Recipe, it’s not only always autumn, but an especially brilliant autumn. That’s the most obvious use, but that doesn’t mean it can’t produce striking results for other subjects and in other situations, such as indoors and even nighttime photography.

*Camera Show* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Things are Looking Up* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Leaves on a Brick Road* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Crosswalker* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Three Recycle Cans* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Standing on Steam* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Photographers in Elfreth’s Alley* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Connecting* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Vertical Composition* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Photowalking* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Photographing a Photographer Photographing a Photographer* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*George’s House* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Rainbow* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Street View* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Vegan* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Fire Tree* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Red Tree in the City* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

*Urban Cowboys* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

See also: Photographing in Aerochrome

Photographing in Aerochrome + When will more Infrared Recipes get published?

Posted on November 14, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*Autumn at Boulder Lake* – Clinton, CT – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

I’ve had several people inquire when the next Infrared Film Simulation Recipe for full-spectrum cameras (like the Fujifilm X-T4 ES) will drop. I mentioned that I had a few in the works and even shared some sample pictures of what those might look like. It’s been awhile, so when will those Recipes be made available?

The first IR Recipe that I published for my Fujifilm X-T4 ES (“Extended Spectrum”) camera was Aerochrome v1 in July. Shortly thereafter I made a discover that directly led to the Aerochrome v2 Recipe, which I published in August. So far, those are the only two that I’ve posted. The reason is simple: I like the Aerochrome v2 Recipe so much, that’s all I’ve been using. I can’t stop. I’ve waited so many years to get this look, and I just can’t set it aside. All of the photos in this article were captured with the Aerochrome v2 Recipe over the last few months.

*Yellow Car* – Provincetown, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

But I will get to work on more infrared Recipes for Fujifilm full spectrum cameras real soon. I’m excited to experiment and make new discoveries, and share it with you. This is a journey, and I just paused for a little while to appreciate the view. So stay tuned, more IR Recipes are coming soon.

For those not sure what all of this even means, just real quick: there’s light beyond the visible spectrum that digital cameras are sensitive to. A filter is added onto the sensor to block that light so that you get “normal” pictures. A full spectrum camera does not have an IR filter, which allows it to capture light beyond the visible spectrum, resulting in unusual colors (filters are used to control how the camera interacts with the light). Mostly, it requires one to send off their camera to a company that will do an invasive and expensive procedure to remove the filter; however, earlier this year Fujifilm briefly sold a full-spectrum IR camera (the X-T4 ES) in the U.S. (in the past they only made it available for “forensic, scientific, and cultural preservation applications” and not the general public). While it is no longer being sold directly from Fujifilm, I believe that you can still buy the Fujifilm X-T4 ES from B&H, but it requires a phone call or stopping by in person (can’t order from the internet). If you want one, I’d recommend inquiring sooner than later, because there are probably not very many copies available.

Anyway, below are photographs that I captured with the Aerochrome v2 Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T4 ES:

Fujifilm X-T4 ES Available Now (sort of….)

Posted on July 29, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

I have a limited edition Fujifilm X-T4 ES (Extended Spectrum) camera that I purchased from Fujifilm a month ago (but arrived a couple weeks ago). It was briefly sold directly from the Fujifilm website, but only for a handful of days. Right now, the Fujifilm X-T4 ES is available for purchase from B&H as a special order. You have to agree to some terms and restrictions and be a resident of the USA; one such term is to be a “professional” photographer or videographer with the express purpose of creating “fine art” content. I don’t know what their definition of a “professional” is, but if you’re in America and want this camera, you should at least inquire about it. I don’t believe that there are very many copies of the Fujifilm X-T4 ES, so if you want one, you should definitely act fast, as it won’t last long, I’m certain.

*Red Founders* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v1

This post contains affiliate links, and if you make a purchase using my links I’ll be compensated a small amount for it.

Fujifilm X-T4 ES (Extended Spectrum)
B&H

Aerochrome v1 — Fujifilm X-T4 ES (Full Spectrum Infrared) Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on July 26, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

This “Aerochrome v1” Film Simulation Recipe is for full spectrum infrared cameras, and not “normal” cameras, which have an infrared filter over the sensor. Fujifilm briefly sold a limited number of Fujifilm X-T4 ES (“Extended Spectrum”) cameras, which are full spectrum infrared (no IR filter). I don’t know how many of these cameras were made, but I think it’s a very small number. I was quite lucky to get one.

While the X-T4 ES is the only infrared camera that Fujifilm has ever made available to the general public (typically, they reserve them for “forensic, scientific, and cultural preservation applications”), there are companies that will convert a normal camera into a full spectrum model by removing the IR filter over the sensor. It’s an invasive and expensive procedure, but one of the few options available. What I cannot confirm is whether or not the straight-out-of-camera results from a third-party full spectrum converted camera are identical to the Fujifilm X-T4 ES. I believe that they are likely to be identical, but there is a chance that they’re not. I hope that Fujifilm will make more native full spectrum cameras in the future, and sell them to the general public. I’m certain that there is enough demand to justify it.

*Raspberry Palm* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v1

Aerochrome was an infrared film produced by Kodak between 1942 and 2009. It’s definitely not the only infrared color film ever made, but it’s the most popular and recognizable. You could achieve various aesthetics from Aerochrome by using different filters, with red, pink, purple, or orange vegetation as the hallmarks of the emulsion (especially red and pink). As far as I’m aware, there are not currently any color infrared films in production, and the few rolls of Aerochrome that remain are extraordinarily expensive. This “Aerochrome v1” Recipe mimics Aerochrome film, but it’s definitely not perfect. I’m currently working on two other Aerochrome Recipes, but the exact aesthetic I’m after has been a bit elusive so far (I’m close, though), so expect several versions to be published.

Aside from a full spectrum infrared camera, you also need specific filters. Since you are seeing light beyond the visible spectrum, filters are used to control exactly how the light enters the camera, which greatly affects the results. For this particular Recipe, a Kolari Vision IR Chrome filter and Hoya G(XO) Yellow-Green filter are required (I don’t think it matters, but I have the G(XO) filter in front of the IR Chrome). In my opinion, the Kolari Vision IR Chrome filter doesn’t produces acceptable Aerochrome results straight-out-of-camera by itself (at least not on Fujifilm); however, when used in conjunction with other filters it can be quite good.

*Painting the Town Red* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v1

This “Aerochrome v1” Film Simulation Recipe is intended specifically for the Fujifilm X-T4 ES camera; however, I’m sure it can be used on any full spectrum converted X-Trans IV or X-Trans V camera. For the X-Pro3 and X100V, you should use Highlight +1 and Shadow 0 (since those cameras don’t have 0.5 adjustments); additionally, for the X-T3 or X-T30, ignore Color Chrome FX Blue and Grain size. You might be able to use it on older cameras, adjusting for the settings that aren’t available on your specific model, but it will definitely render differently. It likely will work on newer GFX models, but with a slightly divergent result. If you have a regular Fujifilm camera, this Recipe will not work, as it requires a full spectrum camera like the X-T4 ES (and not the X-T4). Also, I’m not including this in the Fuji X Weekly App because it requires special gear.

Filters: Kolari Vision IR Chrome & Hoya G(XO) Yellow-Green
Film Simulation: Velvia
Dynamic Range: DR400
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Weak
White Balance: Daylight, +8 Red & +7 Blue
Highlight: +1.5
Shadow: +0.5
Color: +4
Sharpness: 0
High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: 0
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: 0 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Aerochrome v1 Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T4 ES:

The Colorful World of Infrared — Experiments in Full Spectrum Photography

Posted on July 19, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

The Fujifilm X-T4 ES is an ordinary X-T4 but without the IR filter—it’s actually full-spectrum. Fujifilm has produced several IR cameras in the past, but the X-T4 ES is the first that they made available to the general public. Despite no fanfare, the camera sold-out quickly. Hopefully Fujifilm will produce and sell some more copies of the X-T4 ES (or another similar model), because I’m certain there is demand for such a camera.

While I’ve only had my Fujifilm X-T4 ES for a few days now, I’ve been busily photographing with it any chance that I get. Already I’ve made some wonderful discoveries that I cannot wait to share with you in the coming weeks and months. Capturing the invisible light spectrum is extremely fun and rewarding because it transforms an ordinary scene into something truly extraordinary. The world becomes a fanciful place filled with unexpected colors.

Common advice found everywhere on the internet is that you need some specific infrared filters (which are often expensive), and most likely you will need to significantly edit the RAW files, which likely includes color channel swaps. With a couple exceptions, there’s not a good way to get good straight-out-of-camera results. I’m happy to report that that is not true. You will (for the most part) need some filters, but probably not the ones you’ve been told that you need. And you can get excellent results straight-out-of-camera, no editing needed.

The pictures below demonstrate several different looks that I’ve been able to achieve right out of the Fujifilm X-T4 ES. They’re unedited JPEGs (other than some cropping and straightening). Capturing striking pictures like these on a full-spectrum Fujifilm camera is very easy. You can expect some Film Simulation Recipes for infrared photography to come soon. I haven’t named the Recipes yet (or even finalized them… they still might be tweaked), so I’ve sorted them by prominent color.

Purple/Lavender

Sort of reminiscent of LomoChrome Purple film.