Breathtaking Victors of the Infrared Photography Contest Unveil a World of IR Wonder

Kolari Vision announced the victors of its 2024 “Life in Another Light” infrared photography competition on Tuesday, showcasing stunning, otherworldly representations of the genre. Infrared light exists beyond the visible light spectrum, and photographs captured with infrared film or filters enable us to glimpse into these concealed realms.

This is the fourth instance where Kolari, a producer of specialized infrared and ultraviolet photography gear, has invited photographers and videographers globally to showcase their work. The contest amassed over 3,000 entries across 12 categories, encompassing abstract, aerial, astro landscape, monochrome, long exposure, portrait, and infrared short film.

“What alterations occur when we transition to infrared, and which aspects remain unchanged? What allure exists in the light that eludes our sight? What insights do new viewpoints provide about our reality that only photography can unveil?” Kolari stated upon declaring the competition. “Our contest goes beyond merely capturing images; it’s about unearthing fresh perspectives on our environment.”

Visible light encompasses wavelengths ranging from 400 nanometers to 700 nanometers. Infrared light consists of lower-energy, longer wavelengths that people cannot perceive without specialized apparatus.

Though infrared photography has practical uses across disciplines such as criminal forensics, healthcare, and dentistry (for instance, monitoring tooth decay), it is cherished by fine art photographers. Infrared visuals often possess a surreal, dreamlike character that transforms mundane scenes into rich fantasy landscapes. Mountains and vibrant foliage turn bright red or pink, water appears a deep turquoise, and skies display vibrant colors not commonly found in nature. Dark fabrics look white, and skin surfaces reflect infrared light in a manner that reduces imperfections, often giving faces an eerie, ghostly white appearance.

A selection panel of seven judges determined the winners of the 2024 Life in Another Light competition based on technical skill, composition, and originality. The jurors featured Pierre-Louis Ferrer, an expert in infrared and ultraviolet techniques, along with Yann Philippe, another photographer renowned for his infrared work. The competition guidelines allow for the post-processing of images, but they clarify that “while digital alteration is permitted, please note this is not a Photoshop contest. Images that seem excessively modified may be disqualified at the discretion of the judges.”

Recognizing that not all photography enthusiasts possess the appropriate equipment for capturing infrared images, Kolari Vision included a category for “visible light” photography. The winning visuals are a breathtaking voyage into boundless creativity. You can view the top submissions below, and view all runners-up and honorable mentions here.

Abstract, first place

Aerial, first place

Astro landscape, first place

Black and white, first place

Landscape infrared, first place

Landscape visible light, first place

Long exposure, first place

Portrait, first place

Ultraviolet, first place

Infrared short film, first place