This past September, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend Photovacation 2025, a creative gathering for photographers set against the beautiful backdrop of the Bulgarian coast. The event took place at Forest Beach Natural Holiday Resort (formerly ММЦ Приморско) and gave me the chance to present my passion for infrared photography at Photovacation 2025 in the “Best Picture” contest.
I submitted a series of surreal images captured through infrared photography. Each photograph required a 30-second exposure to record the movement of clouds and water. To achieve this effect in broad daylight, I stacked three filters: an infrared filter that revealed light beyond the visible spectrum, a 10-stop neutral density (ND) filter that slowed the shutter, and a black mist filter that softened highlights and added a cinematic glow.
This method created images with a distinctive look. It also produced extra grain and texture, which some might see as imperfections. I embraced them instead, because the noise and softness gave the photographs an ethereal, dreamlike quality that felt alive.
Infrared photography at Photovacation 2025 became more than a contest entry. The week allowed me to explore new techniques, connect with photographers from different backgrounds, and experiment without fear of mistakes. Forest Beach provided the perfect setting—its coastline, skies, and atmosphere encouraged creativity at every step.
Although my photographs did not earn votes in the competition, I do not see them as failures. They stand as personal milestones, proof of my dedication to experiment and grow as an artist. Sharing them now feels important, because each image reflects not just technical effort, but also the joy of pushing beyond the ordinary and seeing the world in a new spectrum.
