What Makes Infrared Film Unique in Photography?

DENMARK ANALOG

This gallery contains images from the good old analog days.  My favorite film was black & white, and infrared film. Infrared was very unhandy, because it had to be put in and taken out of the camera in total darkness.

A Journey Through Analog Photography in Denmark

The images in this gallery are all from before 2005, where I more or less changed to digital photography. As black and white film I used Agfapan 100, Tri-X, and infrared B/W film. I really liked infrared film, but they were difficult to handle – had to be put in and taken out of the camera in total darkness, so I always carried a darkroom bag to do so. Infrared B/W film is sensitive to visible light too, so an infrared-passing filter is used; this lets infrared (IR) light pass through to the camera, and blocks  most of the visible light spectrum; these filters thus look black or deep red. I also liked to use slow shutter speed with a flash to achieve blurred areas when people moved a little during the exposure.

As color film I used slide or positive film. Mostly Kodachrome 25 and 64, and I also liked the Agfa B/W positive film. Color negative film was for family reunions and parties.
In the gallery the images are from various events. To be mentioned are my wife that often was my model, and my daughter with her dolls. When circus came to town I was there. And with a good friend, we got the permission to visit Danish Crown – the local slaughterhouse. In sports there was Haderslev Lions – the local American football club, Vojens Ice Hockey Club, and I contacted a local bodybuilder and watched his training sessions for some time.

To be mentioned also the B/W images from social gatherings in Fotosyndikatet – an unofficial club with friends, especially those with the captions Ristinge and Blåvand under the images.

Denmark, with its picturesque landscapes, charming cities, and rich cultural heritage, serves as an ideal canvas for shooting with film. In this article, we’ll explore the essence of analog photography in Denmark and provide tips for those looking to embark on this nostalgic photographic journey.

Analog photography involves capturing images on film, a process that differs fundamentally from digital photography. Each frame is precious, and photographers often approach each shot with the intention of telling a story. This thoughtful process encourages one to slow down and appreciate the scene before them. The beautiful grain, depth of color, and organic textures found in analog photographs add a layer of emotion that can be hard to replicate digitally.

Denmark offers diverse settings perfect for analog photographers. From the vibrant streets of Copenhagen to the tranquil countryside of Funen, the country’s unique charm provides an endless source of inspiration. The colorful Nyhavn harbor in Copenhagen, for example, creates a stunning backdrop for capturing the essence of Danish culture. Similarly, charming towns like Aarhus and Odense, with their cobblestone streets and historical architecture, offer countless opportunities for expressive photography.

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