Today we’re exploring Nikon’s professional and prosumer camera lineup—and what makes each model a candidate for DIY infrared (IR) conversion. Whether you’re chasing ethereal white foliage or dramatic black skies, these bodies and their sensors can reveal a hidden spectrum of creative possibilities.

Nikon’s Professional & Prosumer Models (Chronological)

2007–2010

• August 2007 – Nikon D3 (FX, pro DSLR)

• December 2008 – Nikon D3x (FX, pro DSLR, high-res)

• October 2009 – Nikon D3s (FX, pro DSLR)

2011–2013

• January 2012 – Nikon D4 (FX, pro DSLR)

• March 2012 – Nikon D800 / D800E (FX, high-res DSLR)

• September 2012 – Nikon D600 (FX, entry-level full-frame DSLR)

• March 2013 – Nikon D7100 (DX, prosumer DSLR)

• October 2013 – Nikon D610 (FX, revised full-frame DSLR)

• November 2013 – Nikon Df (FX, retro-style DSLR)

2014–2016

• March 2014 – Nikon D4s (FX, pro DSLR)

• July 2014 – Nikon D810 (FX, high-res DSLR)

• September 2014 – Nikon D750 (FX, prosumer DSLR)

• March 2015 – Nikon D7200 (DX, prosumer DSLR)

• January 2016 – Nikon D5 (FX, flagship DSLR)

• January 2016 – Nikon D500 (DX, flagship APS-C DSLR)

2017–2018

• June 2017 – Nikon D7500 (DX, upper midrange DSLR)

• August 2017 – Nikon D850 (FX, pro DSLR)

• September 2018 – Nikon Z7 (FX, first-gen mirrorless)

• November 2018 – Nikon Z6 (FX, first-gen mirrorless)

2019–2020

• October 2019 – Nikon Z50 (DX, midrange mirrorless)

• February 2020 – Nikon D6 (FX, flagship DSLR)

• August 2020 – Nikon Z5 (FX, entry-level full-frame mirrorless)

• November 2020 – Nikon Z6 II (FX, second-gen mirrorless)

• December 2020 – Nikon Z7 II (FX, second-gen mirrorless)

2021–2022

• July 2021 – Nikon Z fc (DX, retro mirrorless)

• December 2021 – Nikon Z9 (FX, flagship mirrorless)

• July 2022 – Nikon Z30 (DX, vlogging mirrorless)

2023–2025

• May 2023 – Nikon Z8 (FX, pro mirrorless)

• September 2023 – Nikon Z f (FX, retro-style mirrorless)

• March 2024 – Nikon Z6 III (FX, third-gen hybrid)

• November 2024 – Nikon Z50 II (DX, second-gen mirrorless)

DIY Infrared Conversion: Key Steps

1. Remove the IR-Blocking Filter
   Nikon cameras include a “hot mirror” to block IR light. Conversion requires extracting this filter and replacing it with either clear glass (for full-spectrum use) or a dedicated IR-pass filter (e.g., 720 nm or 850 nm).

2. Maintain Optical Alignment
   The replacement glass must be optically flat and sit at the exact same distance from the sensor as the original filter. Misalignment can cause focus errors or aberrations.

3. Calibrate White Balance
   After installing an IR-pass filter, set a custom white balance by pointing the camera (with the filter attached) at green foliage. Alternatively, use software profiles or channel-swapping techniques in post-processing.

4. Autofocus and Metering Considerations

   • DSLRs: Metering remains reliable under IR. Phase-detect autofocus may require micro-adjustment, or you can focus in Live View.

   • Mirrorless: On-sensor AF systems handle IR more naturally, delivering accurate focus even through an IR-pass filter.

5. Professional vs. DIY
   Converting at home usually voids the warranty and demands a dust-free environment. Many photographers opt for specialist services (like Kolari or LifePixel) to guarantee optical-grade results.

Sensor Performance in Infrared

Model Highlights for IR Enthusiasts

• D850 and D810: Legendary for 45 MP detail and excellent IR sharpness; ideal for landscape and fine-art IR.

• D750: Balances cost and performance; 24 MP sensor yields smooth tonal transitions in IR.

• Z6 / Z7: Hybrid AF systems adapt well to IR; require a brief AF recalibration but then focus smoothly.

• Z9 / Z8: Electronic shutter modes make timelapse IR easy, though sensitivity can be slightly lower than DSLRs.

• APS-C Bodies (D500, Z50, Z fc): Lightweight and budget-friendly, perfect for IR portrait experiments with vintage lenses.

Tips for a Successful Conversion

• Select Your Sensor: Full-frame bodies like the D850 or Z7 II deliver maximum resolution; APS-C cameras like the Z50 II are more budget-friendly.

• Filter Choice: A 720 nm IR-pass filter offers balanced IR and visible light for flexible shooting; 850 nm pushes foliage to pure white.

• Professional vs. Home: If you lack a cleanroom setup, professional services ensure optical flatness and dust-free assembly.

• Test Your Lenses: Some modern Zooms can exhibit IR hot spots; pairing vintage manual primes often yields unique IR character.

Conclusion

From the rugged Nikon D3 in 2007 to the cutting-edge Z8 in 2023, Nikon’s professional and prosumer lineup offers a spectrum of sensors ready to reveal the hidden world of infrared. Whether you tackle a DIY conversion or enlist a specialist, each model brings its own advantages—so choose the body that fits your creative goals, select the right IR-pass filter, and embark on a journey where the invisible becomes vivid art.

Stay tuned to Eovaldi Art Science for more deep dives into photographic techniques, art-science intersections, and hands-on conversion guides. Happy shooting!