SUMMARY
Photographer Jason Friend explored a full spectrum converted Sony a7 camera, which replaces the sensor's blocking filter with clear glass, allowing UV, visible, and infrared light to reach the sensor. This conversion requires external filters like the Hoya R72 for infrared shooting and offers greater flexibility for handheld infrared photography and long exposure black and white work. Friend noted that using a UV IR cut filter did not fully restore standard visible light capture due to the camera's processor calibration. The conversion significantly changes shooting possibilities, enabling spontaneous infrared capture in conditions that would typically require a tripod.
TAKEAWAYS
Full spectrum conversion removes the sensor's blocking filter, allowing all light wavelengths to pass.
External filters are necessary to control light capture with a full spectrum converted camera.
The conversion enables practical handheld infrared shooting and faster long exposure work.
Camera processor calibration affects color accuracy when using third-party filters.