The Art of Infrared Photography: From Capture to Print

Infrared photography invites us to see the familiar world through a new lens. Foliage glows, skies deepen, skin takes on an ethereal quality, and ordinary landscapes, structures, and people reveal the unexpected. But creating compelling infrared photographs involves more than knowing how to operate a converted camera. It requires learning to see differently, understanding how infrared responds to light and subject matter, and developing the skills to transform what you capture into the image you envision.

Join Shelley Vandegrift, expert infrared photographer and co-author of “Infrared Photography: Digital Techniques for Artistic Images,” in Santa Fe for an immersive exploration of the art and craft of infrared photography. Whether you’re new to infrared or have some experience and want to strengthen your skills, this workshop meets you where you are and helps you move forward.

In guided field sessions, we photograph Northern New Mexico’s distinctive places and architecture. We also work with models in the landscape, exploring how portraiture transforms through an infrared lens. You discover how different subjects, lighting conditions, and compositions respond to infrared and learn to recognize opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed. Along the way, we embrace the unique visual qualities of infrared and learn to use them intentionally rather than simply relying on the familiar infrared “look.” 

Back in the classroom, Shelley guides you through the technical and creative possibilities of infrared post-processing. You learn how to process your images from the RAW file, establish an effective white balance, control contrast and tonal relationships, and explore both monochrome and color infrared interpretations. You also discover techniques for channel swapping and color manipulation that can transform a technically successful infrared capture into a compelling fine-art photograph.

At the end of the week, participants have the opportunity to print a selection of their infrared images produced during the week using the Workshop’s state-of-the-art digital lab. We discuss output edits, paper choice, and other key considerations for translating your image into print.

The workshop is designed to be highly hands-on, with instruction and demonstrations followed by opportunities to apply what you’ve learned. Image reviews and individual guidance help you understand not only what works in an infrared image, but why—and how you can make more intentional decisions in your own work.

Come with an open and curious mind, whether you’re taking your first steps into infrared or looking to deepen your existing practice. Leave with greater confidence in both capture and post-processing, a deeper understanding of infrared’s creative possibilities, and a collection of images that reflect your own vision.