Loimography is a term that refers to the study of plagues or epidemics. The word is pronounced as loh-ee-moh-gruh-fee, with the stress on the third syllable. The "o" sounds like the "o" in "low" and "moh" like "mow" without the "w". The "gra" sounds like "grah" and "fee" with a long "e" at the end. While the word itself may be unfamiliar, it is derived from the Greek word "loimos" which means "plague" or "pestilence," making it a valuable term for those researching outbreaks of disease.
Loimography is a term coined to describe a specific type of photographic technique that involves capturing images using infrared film or sensors. Derived from the words "loimos," meaning "plague" in Greek, and "graphy," meaning "writing" or "representation," loimography refers to the unique approach of capturing haunting and ethereal images that evoke a sense of otherworldliness or an apocalyptic atmosphere.
In loimography, the use of infrared film or sensors allows the photographer to see beyond the visible spectrum of light, capturing wavelengths that are invisible to the naked eye. This results in a distinctive visual style characterized by surreal and dreamlike qualities. Loimography often produces photographs with a reddish tint or a peculiar glow, as objects that would typically absorb or reflect visible light appear differently in the infrared spectrum.
Loimography is not restricted to any specific subject matter, as it can be applied to various genres of photography, including landscapes, portraits, or still life. However, its unique visual characteristics make it particularly suited for capturing scenes with rich textures, natural landscapes with foliage, or architectural structures.
The artistic possibilities within loimography are vast, with photographers experimenting with different techniques, such as long exposures or deliberate distortion of the infrared spectrum through filters. This allows for the creation of images with a distinct mood and atmosphere, often accentuating the hidden beauty or obscure aspects of the subject matter.
Overall, loimography represents a captivating and experimental genre of photography that offers a unique perspective, introducing viewers to a world beyond our human perception of light.