A standard digital camera has several filters in front of the sensor that block infrared and UV light. A full spectrum camera has those built in filters removed allowing all light onto the sensor. To create infrared images, filters at a specific wavelength are attached to the lens. For instance, a 590 nanometer filter allows all light above 590 to enter the sensor.

Visible light spectrum ranges from around 380 nm to 750 nm with infrared above 700. The limits are not sharply defined so there is some wiggle room. The lower the filter number, the greater amount of visible light enters the image for more vibrant colors. The greater the filter like the standard Hoya R72 is mostly black and white with some color. By the time you get to the 830 nm filter, it’s only black and white.

When using different IR filters, white balance is very important. any filter below 665 nm, use a grey or white card for white balance. Anything above 665, use green foliage. The 665 nm filter can use both as a white balance option.

The main advantage of using a full spectrum camera is the ability to capture images beyond the visible spectrum. This allows photographers to explore new creative possibilities and capture unique images that are not possible with a regular camera. Infrared photography, for example, can create surreal and dreamlike images that are not possible with visible light. Full spectrum cameras can also be used for scientific or technical applications, such as analyzing material composition or detecting hidden defects.