full spectrum IR photography and sensor size (APSC/FF)- a few questions

[sirhawkeye64]

Thinking again of dipping my feet into IR photography (had a Z5 I had converted a few years ago but sold it off at a wash -- ie. didn't lose money/didn't make money) but am rethinking of maybe doing another one as I somewhat regret selling it.

Aside from the obvious differences (dynamic range and high ISO noise) for IR photography (full spectrum) does the sensor size matter much? And also are smaller sensors more likely/prone to hotspoting than when using FF Sensors or does it not matter and mostly a lens thing?

The two choices of camera I'm kind of looking at here is a Z30 or Z5 (I have full frame glass, but am looking to do full spectrum with attachable filters as I can use some of the lenses I already own, which would save me money in the end rather than buying another system even if its a bit cheaper. The Z30 would be the cheapest option as the ycan be found for about $400 used. Z5's average around $700 for one in good shape. I'd be a bit inclined to get a used camera either way as I'm basically going to void the warranty having the conversion done, so no sense in paying for a full warranty.

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[Richard B99]

Thinking again of dipping my feet into IR photography (had a Z5 I had converted a few years ago but sold it off at a wash -- ie. didn't lose money/didn't make money) but am rethinking of maybe doing another one as I somewhat regret selling it.

Aside from the obvious differences (dynamic range and high ISO noise) for IR photography (full spectrum) does the sensor size matter much? And also are smaller sensors more likely/prone to hotspoting than when using FF Sensors or does it not matter and mostly a lens thing?

I had my D7200 converted to whole spectrum after not really using it for a few years. It was every bit as good as original afterwards. So I just think its just the old DX / FF considerations to consider. Full spectrum is the way to go IMHO as you can vary the IR effect using IR cut filters as you wish. My favourite filter is the Kolari IR Chrome filter for colour work. It is however rather expensive, especially for large filter sizes. Save some money for that puppy!

I’ve never had a problem with hotspots on modern F glass but haven't ever tried Z mount lenses!

The two choices of camera I'm kind of looking at here is a Z30 or Z5 (I have full frame glass, but am looking to do full spectrum with attachable filters as I can use some of the lenses I already own, which would save me money in the end rather than buying another system even if its a bit cheaper. The Z30 would be the cheapest option as the ycan be found for about $400 used. Z5's average around $700 for one in good shape. I'd be a bit inclined to get a used camera either way as I'm basically going to void the warranty having the conversion done, so no sense in paying for a full warranty.

I don’t see any point in going new for a conversion body either! s/h or post upgrade bodies seem to be perfect donor bodies. Z bodies may be better than DSLR as you can use the viewfinder rather than needing to rely on Live View.

 

[sirhawkeye64]

Thinking again of dipping my feet into IR photography (had a Z5 I had converted a few years ago but sold it off at a wash -- ie. didn't lose money/didn't make money) but am rethinking of maybe doing another one as I somewhat regret selling it.

Aside from the obvious differences (dynamic range and high ISO noise) for IR photography (full spectrum) does the sensor size matter much? And also are smaller sensors more likely/prone to hotspoting than when using FF Sensors or does it not matter and mostly a lens thing?

I had my D7200 converted to whole spectrum after not really using it for a few years. It was every bit as good as original afterwards. So I just think its just the old DX / FF considerations to consider. Full spectrum is the way to go IMHO as you can vary the IR effect using IR cut filters as you wish. My favourite filter is the Kolari IR Chrome filter for colour work. It is however rather expensive, especially for large filter sizes. Save some money for that puppy!

I’ve never had a problem with hotspots on modern F glass but haven't ever tried Z mount lenses!

The two choices of camera I'm kind of looking at here is a Z30 or Z5 (I have full frame glass, but am looking to do full spectrum with attachable filters as I can use some of the lenses I already own, which would save me money in the end rather than buying another system even if its a bit cheaper. The Z30 would be the cheapest option as the ycan be found for about $400 used. Z5's average around $700 for one in good shape. I'd be a bit inclined to get a used camera either way as I'm basically going to void the warranty having the conversion done, so no sense in paying for a full warranty.

I don’t see any point in going new for a conversion body either! s/h or post upgrade bodies seem to be perfect donor bodies. Z bodies may be better than DSLR as you can use the viewfinder rather than needing to rely on Live View.

Thanks, yes I do plan to go full spectrum (I actually had a Z5 converted previously but didn't use it that much and sold it for a wash, but in hindsight, maybe should have kept it). I did grab a Z5 again before the price went up but may sit on the decision for a bit as I also considered maybe a used Z50 instead for a lot less money than a new Z5. But it's good to know that the sesnor size doesn't really impact things beyond the regular differences.

 

[robgendreau]

I've had M43, APS-C, and full frame cameras converted to full spectrum. I can't say I notice the difference in IR/UV photography any more than visible light shooting.

A factor could be hot spots in lenses, or other issues (Canon RF lenses have an internal light that can be frustrating, eg). These days I'd also want an option where I could use clip filters.

But mostly just down to the choice of what works otherwise.

 

[sirhawkeye64]

I've had M43, APS-C, and full frame cameras converted to full spectrum. I can't say I notice the difference in IR/UV photography any more than visible light shooting.

A factor could be hot spots in lenses, or other issues (Canon RF lenses have an internal light that can be frustrating, eg). These days I'd also want an option where I could use clip filters.

But mostly just down to the choice of what works otherwise.

OK thanks, I did find a video on Youtube by a Youtuber whose channel is all about IR and he said that it doesn't matter so much, beyond the obvious differences (low-light performance, noise, etc). He did empahsize the benefits of mirrorless vs DSLR though (although I would only convert a ML camera at this point).

But it was good to see that sensor size is not a huge factor and that as long as my expectations are in line with what the sensor size is (ie. a m4/3 will probably perform slightly "worse" overall compared to a FF for example) it should be fine and now lets me make a decision on which route I want to go with (which is probably on the lower-end since it's not something I'm likely to do a lot of in the end, so I'm thinking either a used m4/3 or used APSC camera now).

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* PLEASE NOTE: I generally unsubscribe from forums/comments after a period of time has passed, so if I do not respond, that is likely the reason. *

 

[Rodenmg]

I had my Z6 converted by Life Pixel mainly because I wasn't using the camera and wanted to dabble in IR. I love it. It's addictive.

I would say considerations regarding sensor size and resolution are no different than for any camera. I find my 24mp Z6 great but now wish I'd converted my Z7.

Hot spotting is not related to the camera but rather the lens and the aperture used. Some do better than others. Theres a lot of info online about lens choices for IR.