[barondla]

Just bought a full spectrum modified Pentax K-01. Wanting to try some ultraviolet photography. I've studied some info and just ordered a Spiratone, Kyoei Acall clone, 35mm F 3.5. Still need to get the two filters required to block visible & IR light. Would also like to do some indoor work, so UV light recommendations are appreciated. Also need to source some UV protection googles.

Anyone else using UV?

Thanks,
barondla

[zapp]

Many protection glasses for work are UV save. This resource may help understanding the process and sells equipment like lamps - not cheap, but you get an idea New UV lamps for Ultraviolet photography - Cultural Heritage Science Open Source

[Mutters]

Hi barondla. MightyMike over at DPR does a lot of UV photography. I bet he'd jump at the chance to chat with you.

Cheers
AB

[Paul the Sunman]

We shall expect some samples soon.

[romay]

As far as lenses go, fewer/thinner elements is better. Glass is somewhat opaque to UV light.
As lightsource you can buy UV leds, they come in different wavelengths (UV-A, UV-B or UV-C). If you want to be on the save side, only use UV-A lightsources. It's also a good idea to use a weak light source and compensate with exposure time.
There are also UV-flashguns for forensic purposes showing up on ebay from time to time, but they are rare and expensive.

In some cases, blocking out the visible light may be counter productive as you may want to catch the fluorescent light (looks cool with minerals).

If you use anything "harder" than UV-A you don't really see the light anymore, so you can't tell whether the lightsource is turned on until you get a headache (but then it's too late, you will already have conjunctivitis and possibly a damaged retina). Please also remember UV doesn't trigger the pupillary light reflex, so it is very dangerous if used in the dark.

UV goggles should of course match the wavelength of your lightsource. Try wearing a freshly washed, white shirt. If you see it light up, that's a strong hint your lightsource is still on. Make sure to cover your skin if you use shorter wavelengths and/or use sunblock.

[barondla]

Many protection glasses for work are UV save. This resource may help understanding the process and sells equipment like lamps - not cheap, but you get an idea New UV lamps for Ultraviolet photography - Cultural Heritage Science Open Source

Excellent source of information. Didn't realize art museums used UV so much.

---------- Post added 07-30-21 at 11:51 AM ----------

Hi barondla. MightyMike over at DPR does a lot of UV photography. I bet he'd jump at the chance to chat with you.

Cheers
AB

You are correct. MightyMike is providing lots of help. He is really into it. Thank you.

---------- Post added 07-30-21 at 11:56 AM ----------

We shall expect some samples soon.

Still acquiring filters, light source, and eye protection. There is a step learning curve, so it will be a while. May miss the flowers this year. Thanks for the encouragement.

---------- Post added 07-30-21 at 12:00 PM ----------

As far as lenses go, fewer/thinner elements is better. Glass is somewhat opaque to UV light.
As lightsource you can buy UV leds, they come in different wavelengths (UV-A, UV-B or UV-C). If you want to be on the save side, only use UV-A lightsources. It's also a good idea to use a weak light source and compensate with exposure time.
There are also UV-flashguns for forensic purposes showing up on ebay from time to time, but they are rare and expensive.

In some cases, blocking out the visible light may be counter productive as you may want to catch the fluorescent light (looks cool with minerals).

If you use anything "harder" than UV-A you don't really see the light anymore, so you can't tell whether the lightsource is turned on until you get a headache (but then it's too late, you will already have conjunctivitis and possibly a damaged retina). Please also remember UV doesn't trigger the pupillary light reflex, so it is very dangerous if used in the dark.

UV goggles should of course match the wavelength of your lightsource. Try wearing a freshly washed, white shirt. If you see it light up, that's a strong hint your lightsource is still on. Make sure to cover your skin if you use shorter wavelengths and/or use sunblock.

Superb info. The white shirt idea is great. I do want to try some UVIVF. Figure that will happen indoors this winter.

Thanks,

barondla