IR illumination is a technology that allows trail cameras to capture images and videos even in complete darkness. It consists of a system of diodes that emit infrared light, which is a type of light radiation invisible to human and most animal eyes. This light illuminates the scene in front of the trail camera, and its sensor, which is sensitive to infrared radiation, can capture it. The result is a black-and-white night recording without the use of a disturbing visible flash. There are two basic types of illumination. The first type operates at a wavelength of 850 nm, and its diodes emit a faint red glow, which can startle some more sensitive wildlife species. The second, so-called “invisible” illumination with a wavelength of 940 nm, is completely discreet and emits no light, but usually has a slightly shorter range. An important parameter is therefore the illumination range, which indicates how far the trail camera can effectively illuminate the scene at night.
