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Technically, you don't need to convert a digital camera to shoot infrared -- some rays get through IR-blocking filters, so you need only mount an IR-passing filter and shoot. But you'll need to use very long exposures -- handholding is out.

If you really want to get into IR, an IR-ready (see "Out-of-the-Box Experiences" below) or converted camera is the way to go. When using a DSLR without live view (most of them), you'll need to focus and compose without the IR-passing filter covering the lens. This isn't an issue with compact and EVF cameras.

You can convert a DSLR for dedicated IR use and maintain clear viewing by replacing the camera's IR-cutoff with an IR-passing filter -- but it now can't be used for conventional photography.

Looking to turn your old digital camera into an IR shooter? Here are some outfits to check out.

• LifePixel: Possibly the biggest service for IR conversions, which run from $95 for a replacement filter for do-it-yourselfers to about $290 to $500 for most DSLRs.

• Khromagery: Australia-based, but does conversions for U.S. and Canadian customers. Specializes in Canon models. Conversions run $275 to $440 for advanced compacts and DSLRs.

• LDP Net: Makes or modifies wide range of still and video equipment. Most DSLR conversions run about $450.

Out-of-the-Box Experiences

• Fujifilm IS-1 ($800, street): A Fujifilm S9100 EVF factory-modified by the removal of IR- and ultraviolet-cutoff filters. Has 28-300mm equivalent f/2.8-4.9 zoom. In a forensic kit ($2,000), it comes with nine filters, including a 900 (18A) that passes both IR and UV for intriguing color effects. • Hot: Live view (EVF and LCD), manual and autofocus, long zoom range, can be used for conventional photography. • Not: Ridiculously restrictive end-user license agreement, 2-inch LCD, noise at higher ISOs.

• Fujifilm IS Pro ($2,600, street, body only): Fujifilm S5 Pro DSLR factory-modified by removing IR- and UV-cutoff filters. Has all S5 features, including Nikon mount. • Hot: Live view, huge number of lenses, shoots RAW. • Not: That ridiculously restrictive end-user license, 30-sec live view limit.

• Sigma SD14 ($1,140, street, body only): The IR-cutoff filter, mounted in front of the mirror box, is easy to pop in and out. (Wear lint-free cotton gloves!) • Hot: Easily converted back to normal shooting, many lenses available, shoots RAW. • Not: No live view, RAW works best with limited Sigma software.

• Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H9 ($388, street): NightShot mode uses an IR beam to shoot in the dark, but it's next to useless. Instead, use the H9 outdoors with an IR-passing filter (a Cokin P499 Universal Ring with Cokin P filters) and you can shoot in IR -- in monochrome at a high ISO. • Hot: Live view (EVF and big 3-inch LCD), huge zoom range. • Not: Clumsy filter mounting, noisy images, greenish monochrome, exposure limited to 1/30 sec wide open.

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