Canon R5 Mark II Infrared Photography Review

Custom White Balance

One of the markers for a good infrared camera is its ability for a custom white balance. With infrared photography, using a custom white balance is necessary and highly recommended with any infrared filter to get the best results. We’re glad to say that the Canon R5 Mark II can easily set a custom white balance, like nearly all other Canon mirrorless cameras. We were able to set a custom white balance for all of our infrared filters that we offer between 550nm all the way up to 1000nm, including our special infrared filters like our new Candy Chrome lens filter and classic IR Chrome lens filter.

R5 Mark II Infrared Performance & Image Quality

As always, every camera processes infrared color differently, so there will be slight color variation between different brands. Below, you can see the image quality of each IR test photo we’ve taken with the Canon R5 Mark II before a channel swap. One of the standout features of the Canon R5 Mark II is its exceptional image quality. With a 45-megapixel stacked CMOS full-frame sensor, the camera delivers detailed and sharp images. This translates well to infrared photography—images are sharp and the colors appear how you would come to expect out of the “standard” infrared look of each IR filter.

Canon is top-tier when it comes to infrared photography. Fortunately, we are able to convert the Canon EOS R5 Mark II to full-spectrum with our conversion service. The colors are always vivid and saturated. The first image below is visible light for reference. Images taken between 550nm and 1000nm including Candy Chrome are edited with a standard red/blue channel swap. The last three are Blue IR, Candy Chrome, and IR Chrome.

Artifacts and Technical Issues

When converted to infrared, a camera can possibly show hidden sensor artifacts and other issues that aren’t previously noticeable in its stock format. One issue that can arise is the visibility of PDAF sensor lines—horizontal and vertical lines that appear throughout the image. The artifacts are a characteristic of the camera’s sensor, but become more apparent after an infrared conversion. To test for the appearance of PDAF sensor lines, we shoot an image with an 850nm filter, push contrast, and examine.

In the case of the R5 MkII, PDAF sensor lines do not show up. They would show up as very apparent lines, which you can see on our Nikon Z7 Infrared Photography Review that clearly shows horizontal and vertical lines. Generally speaking, even if the sensor lines are apparent, it would be pretty difficult to see them unless you were pixel peeping. However, the appearance of sensor lines can be troublesome in some cases, so it is important to recognize which cameras do experience this issue after an infrared conversion.

Internal Shutter Monitoring IR LED

Another issue that can hinder the utility of a camera for infrared use is infrared light leak. For instance, infrared light leak can be experienced with certain camera models that have an internal IR LED for monitoring the shutter mechanism and help maintain shutter speed accuracy especially for long exposures. Alternatively, it can be caused by LED screen backlights. Typically with

To test the camera, we placed the camera inside a closed camera bag within a sealed container in a dark room. The camera was shot with a wide open aperture with a lens cap, ISO — 10000, and 30 second shutter speed. With the Canon R5 Mark II, we can report that there is no IR light leak present, which makes the camera a good contender for astrophotography and IR long exposures.

Conclusion

As with many Canon cameras, the R5 Mark II remains a top contender for infrared photography for its custom white balance capabilities, infrared image performance, and lack of technical issues. The ability to custom white balance allows photographers to properly achieve accurate colors in the infrared spectrum for what is typically standard of “the infrared look” when shooting with certain IR filters. Additionally, the camera’s high resolution and dynamic range make it ideal for capturing fine details and textures, which are critical when shooting in infrared, where subtle tonal differences are often more pronounced.

Beyond the custom white balance, the R5 Mark II consistently delivers exceptional image quality. The camera also experiences fewer technical challenges related to infrared conversion, such as IR light leak or the appearance of PDAF sensor lines, making it a reliable tool for both professional and hobbyist infrared photographers.

Overall, the combination of cutting-edge features, robust performance, and a reputation for reliability makes the Canon R5 Mark II one of the top contenders for those looking to explore or specialize in infrared photography.

Thanks a lot for this review, I was afraid of the evolution of sensor technology to stacked sensor on the artifact issue. Glad there is no problem at all!

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