Written by Phillip Andrew Iglesias
Infrared videography and photography are spectacular genres of visual media to explore, especially as they are now making waves in blockbuster cinema such as Dune: Part II (2024) and Nope (2022). However, if you aren’t already familiar with the genre, it can feel daunting, as it requires much education to understand the concepts and nuances of shooting in infrared—not to mention the expenses of converting your camera (or second camera) to full-spectrum and purchasing infrared filters for your gear.
Thankfully, budget options are available in the form of our Kolari Pocket point-and-shoot cameras. The three different models—the original Kolari Pocket, ZS, and Pro—offer creatives a cost-effective and easy way to explore infrared shooting. This article compares the different Kolari Pocket models to help you find the best option for your budget and creative needs.
First up, we have the original Kolari Pocket. Our first Kolari Pocket model uses a Canon Powershot ELPH 180 as its base and is modified to full-spectrum for infrared shooting. The lens is retrofitted with a 37mm lens adapter for infrared lens filters. Its ultra-compact frame, 8x zoom lens, simple controls, and powerful 20-megapixel sensor make this camera the perfect infrared camera for beginners, casual shooters, and all those looking for a way to add infrared to their camera bag at a low cost. Additionally, it features live view, an indispensable feature for focusing and composing in infrared. Choosing the basic package—which includes the camera and a 720nm lens—is priced at $350, which makes it one of the most cost-effective packages and travel-friendly infrared cameras on the market. We also offer a Kolari Pocket – Red Edition that uses the Canon ELPH 185 as its base.
The original Kolari Pocket also has the potential to shoot RAW, a format that retains more image detail and allows for a wider latitude for post-production, with a Canon Hack Development Kit (CHDK) firmware update. Keep in mind that this firmware update can be challenging to use, as it requires you to always use an SD card with the CHDK firmware files to access the Linux-based software for shooting RAW.
A step up from our original Kolari Pocket lands you at our Kolari Pocket ZS series cameras. Our favorite IR point-and-shoot cameras were from the Lumix ZS series before we opted to use the Canon ELPH 180 for the original Kolari Pocket. However, the growing popularity of Canon point-and-shoot cameras as of recently has caused their prices to skyrocket, so we’ve decided to bring back the Lumix ZS series for our new iteration of Kolari Pockets.
Our kits use the Panasonic Lumix ZS series cameras as the base, ranging from the ZS1 to the ZS30. With hotspot-free lens performance, full support for manual shooting, and a killer deal starting at $199.99, the Kolari Pocket ZS kits offer an incredible range of options. It’s important to note that these cameras do not provide RAW shooting capabilities, but the addition of full manual support sets it apart from the original Pocket as a contender for professional shooting under true creative control. Several features that set the specific models apart include:
Finally, the Kolari Pocket Pro is an excellent choice if you’re in the market for a secondary infrared camera or the best infrared point-and-shoot option available. The Pocket Pro uses the Canon Powershot G16 as its base. This was among Canon’s highest quality point-and-shoot cameras and the last of its kind in the “G” series lineup before Canon moved on to the “GX” series. As one of Canon’s best point-and-shoot cameras, the G16 offers a solid focal length range of 28mm-140mm and an incredibly fast F1.8-2.8 aperture for its zoom lens, an optical viewfinder (which is not present on the other Kolari Pockets, as they simply offer live view), video capabilities (1080p/60fps) and focus peaking. Our Kolari Pocket Pro kits add full manual support and RAW imaging capabilities, making them suitable for professional shooting.
Overall, our Kolari Pockets offer a range from budget-conscious packages to advanced tools for professional shooting. The original Kolari Pocket is perfect for beginners and enthusiasts with its travel-friendly form factor. The Pocket ZS is a step above the original with additional features and image quality. Finally, The Kolari Pocket Pro is perfect for professionals seeking a secondary infrared camera or the best-performing infrared point-and-shoot camera available.
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