How Does RNI's Kodak Aerochrome Lightroom Preset Work?

Written by: Alexa Starr

Last updated: 11/30/24

 

You've likely seen those surreal, dreamlike images with vivid red foliage and unusual color palettes. They're often the result of Kodak Aerochrome, a discontinued infrared-sensitive film. But you don't need to hunt down rare film stocks to achieve this look. RNI's Kodak Aerochrome Lightroom preset offers a digital solution that mimics the film's distinctive characteristics. It's not just a simple color swap; the preset employs sophisticated algorithms to transform your images. Whether you're a landscape photographer looking to add a touch of the otherworldly or a portrait artist seeking a unique aesthetic, understanding how this preset works can open up new creative possibilities.

Understanding Kodak Aerochrome Film

Kodak Aerochrome burst onto the scene as a groundbreaking color infrared film, initially developed for military reconnaissance. This unique film had a special trick up its sleeve: it could reveal camouflaged objects in aerial photos, making it a valuable tool for military intelligence.

But that's not all – Aerochrome's magic extended far beyond its original purpose! When you'd use this infrared film, you'd notice something extraordinary. Green foliage would transform into vibrant reds, while skies would take on striking blue and cyan hues. Talk about a color makeover! This distinctive color rendition, combined with high contrast, gave Aerochrome its unmistakable look.

It's no wonder photographers fell head over heels for its artistic appeal. Sadly, Aerochrome's reign came to an end in 2006 when Kodak discontinued it. As digital photography advanced, this unique film became harder to find.

But don't worry – Aerochrome's legacy lives on! Contemporary artists like Richard Mosse have embraced its quirky characteristics, creating jaw-dropping works that showcase the film's otherworldly qualities. Who knew military tech could become such a hit in the art world?

RNI's Digital Emulation Approach

For those missing the magic of Aerochrome, RNI's digital emulation approach offers a modern solution. You don't need an infrared camera or discontinued film to capture those dreamy magenta landscapes anymore. RNI's Kodak Aerochrome Lightroom Preset cleverly mimics the unique color rendering of the original film, bringing that elusive aesthetic to your digital photos.

The secret sauce? A team of imaging professionals has handcrafted profiles that retain the film's characteristics while expanding your creative possibilities. These wizards have concocted 18 variations of color shifts and contrast options, giving you plenty of room to play. It's like having a box of Aerochrome chocolates, but without the risk of them melting!

You'll find the preset pack works seamlessly with Adobe Lightroom and Camera Raw, fitting right into your existing workflow. Even though your standard digital camera filters out UV and infrared spectrums, RNI's presets apply specific color transformations to simulate that Aerochrome look.

It's digital alchemy at its finest, turning your ordinary shots into extraordinary, infrared-inspired masterpieces. So go ahead, give your photos that magical Aerochrome touch with just a few clicks!

Key Features of the RNI Kodak Aerochrome Preset

With a focus on versatility and ease of use, RNI's Kodak Aerochrome Lightroom Preset packs a punch with its key features. You'll find 18 variations that simulate the unique color palette of Kodak Aerochrome film, transforming green foliage into vibrant reds. This preset is your ticket to quick and seamless integration with Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Camera Raw, fitting right into your existing workflow.

Imagine the possibilities as you apply this preset to your photos:

• Lush green forests transformed into fiery red landscapes
• Ordinary fields bursting with surreal, otherworldly colors
• Portrait subjects surrounded by a sea of crimson foliage
• Cityscapes where parks and gardens pop with unexpected hues
• Nature shots that look like they're straight out of a sci-fi movie

Handcrafted by digital imaging specialists, this preset maintains the distinct characteristics of the original film while being user-friendly.

You can easily adjust settings like saturation and white balance to fine-tune your results and preserve skin tones. Whether you're shooting landscapes or portraits, this versatile preset adapts to various photography styles.

RNI Kodak Aerochrome Installation and Compatibility

Simplicity is at the heart of installing RNI's Kodak Aerochrome Lightroom Preset. You'll be pleased to know that getting this creative tool up and running is a breeze.

The preset pack is compatible with Adobe Lightroom CC, Lightroom Mobile, and Adobe Camera Raw, giving you flexibility in your photo editing workflow. To install, just import the preset files into Lightroom's Develop module through the Presets panel. It's as easy as pie!

Once installed, you'll have 18 variations of the Aerochrome filter at your fingertips. It's like having a box of colorful crayons, but for your digital photos!

The best part? These presets use non-destructive editing, so you can experiment to your heart's content without worrying about ruining your original images. If you don't like the result, just hit undo and start over.

While the preset pack isn't currently compatible with Capture One, don't fret! There's hope on the horizon for future updates that might expand compatibility.

In the meantime, you can enjoy transforming your photos with RNI's Kodak Aerochrome Lightroom preset across various Adobe platforms. Happy editing!

Applying the RNI Kodak Aerochrome Preset in Lightroom

When you're ready to apply the RNI Kodak Aerochrome preset, it's important to choose images that'll really shine with this unique effect.

You'll want to look for photos with lots of greenery, as the preset transforms green tones into vibrant pinks and purples.

Once you've picked the perfect image, you can adjust the preset's intensity to get just the right look – it's like turning a dial to find that sweet spot between subtle and eye-popping!

Selecting Suitable Images

Selecting the right images for RNI's Kodak Aerochrome Lightroom preset can make or break your final result. You'll want to focus on photos with plenty of green foliage, as this preset transforms greens into vibrant reds, creating a stunning color palette.

Look for well-exposed shots with good composition, especially those taken in outdoor settings where natural contrast can shine. Remember, darker tones mightn't change as dramatically, so aim for subjects with lighter, brighter colors.

To help you visualize the perfect Aerochrome-worthy scene, imagine:

• A sun-drenched meadow with tall grass swaying in the breeze
• A lush forest canopy with sunlight filtering through the leaves
• A tropical beach lined with palm trees against a clear blue sky
• A botanical garden bursting with colorful flowers and exotic plants
• A picturesque countryside dotted with rolling hills and scattered trees

When working with portraits, keep in mind that skin tones might become oversaturated. Don't worry, though! You can easily adjust the saturation, lightness, and white balance to maintain a natural look.

Before finalizing your edits, use Lightroom's live preview feature to guarantee you've achieved the desired aesthetic. With a bit of practice, you'll be creating dreamy, surreal landscapes in no time!

Adjusting Profile Intensity

Now that you've chosen the perfect image, it's time to apply the RNI Kodak Aerochrome preset in Lightroom. Head to the "Develop" module and select your desired Aerochrome profile from the presets panel.

With 18 variations available, you'll have plenty of options to explore different color shifts and contrast adjustments.

Once you've applied the preset, it's time to fine-tune the effect. The "Amount" slider in the "Basic" panel is your new best friend for adjusting profile intensity.

Slide it left or right to dial in the perfect strength for your image. Don't be afraid to experiment – that's half the fun!

As you tweak the intensity, keep an eye on exposure, contrast, and saturation settings. You'll want to maintain natural skin tones and highlights while achieving that dreamy Aerochrome look.

Luckily, Lightroom's live preview feature lets you see changes in real-time, making your editing process a breeze.

Fine-Tuning Color and Contrast for RNI Kodak Aerochrome

Color manipulation is at the heart of RNI's Kodak Aerochrome Lightroom preset, offering users a powerful toolkit for fine-tuning color and contrast. With 18 variations of filters, you can emphasize unique color shifts, transforming greens into vibrant reds and blues.

This preset is perfect for outdoor landscapes, where green foliage becomes a striking red, enhancing visual interest and contrast in your photographs.

As you work with the RNI Aerochrome preset, you'll want to pay attention to saturation and lightness. These adjustments are essential for maintaining a natural appearance, especially when working with portraits. You don't want your subject's skin to look like they've spent too much time in a tanning bed!

To help you visualize the possibilities, imagine:

• A lush forest transformed into a sea of crimson leaves
• Rolling hills painted in shades of pink and red
• A emerald meadow turned into a field of fiery poppies
• Turquoise lakes nestled among ruby-colored mountains
• Golden sunsets casting a surreal glow over scarlet landscapes

Best Subjects for Aerochrome Effects

When it comes to choosing subjects for the RNI Aerochrome preset, lush landscapes reign supreme. You'll find that scenes bursting with green foliage transform beautifully, as the Aerochrome effect converts those greens into vibrant reds. This creates stunning contrasts in your landscape photography, turning ordinary forests, fields, and gardens into otherworldly vistas.

But don't stop at landscapes! The Aerochrome effect can work wonders in automotive photography too. Imagine capturing a sleek car against a backdrop of surreal, color-shifted nature – talk about eye-catching!

And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try portraits? The preset can add a unique twist to your people shots, especially for subjects with darker skin tones. Just be careful not to overdo it; a little tweaking might be necessary to avoid that "cooked lobster" look!

RNI Kodak Aerochrome: Comparing Digital vs. Film Results

When you're comparing digital Aerochrome presets to the original film, you'll notice some key differences.

The color palette might be similar, with those striking reds and purples, but the texture and grain of film can't quite be replicated digitally.

While the preset can create a surreal look, you'll find that the film's unique dynamic range and contrast are hard to match perfectly in the digital domain.

Color Palette Differences

One of the most striking aspects of RNI's Kodak Aerochrome Lightroom Preset is its ability to transform digital images into surreal, vibrant landscapes reminiscent of the original film. When you apply this preset, you'll notice a dramatic shift in the color palette that sets it apart from traditional digital photography.

The Aerochrome preset cranks up color saturation and contrast, creating eye-catching visuals that'll make your jaw drop. Unlike standard digital sensors, this preset mimics the infrared sensitivity of Aerochrome film, turning green foliage into vibrant reds and skies into deep blues and cyans.

It's like giving your landscape photography a magical makeover! Here's what you might see:

• Lush green trees transformed into fiery red canopies
• Grass fields that look like they're straight out of a sci-fi movie
• Dreamy, cotton candy-like clouds in cyan skies
• Surreal purple shadows in rocky terrain
• Water bodies with an otherworldly, shimmering appearance

While the preset works wonders on brighter areas, you might notice that darker tones don't shift as much. But don't worry – this high-contrast look is part of the Aerochrome charm, adding to its unique and enthralling aesthetic.

Texture and Grain

The RNI Kodak Aerochrome Lightroom preset doesn't just transform colors; it also brings the distinctive texture and grain of analog film to your digital images. When you apply this preset, you'll notice a subtle but significant change in the overall look of your photos. Instead of the smooth, often sterile appearance of digital images, you'll see a more organic, layered quality that mimics the charm of film photography.

Here's a quick comparison of digital vs. film-like results:

Aspect	Digital	Aerochrome Preset
Texture	Smooth, flat	Tactile, layered
Grain	None or artificial	Organic, varied
Visual feel	Clean, sharp	Rich, depth-enhanced

You can adjust the grain intensity in Lightroom to match your artistic vision. This customization allows you to find the sweet spot between digital clarity and analog aesthetic. It's like adding a sprinkle of vintage magic to your modern photography! By introducing these film-like qualities, the Aerochrome preset helps bridge the gap between digital precision and the beloved imperfections of analog photography. You'll love how it transforms your images into works of art with a nostalgic yet contemporary feel.

Dynamic Range Comparison

Diving into the dynamic range comparison between digital and film results reveals some key differences when using the RNI Kodak Aerochrome Lightroom preset.

You'll notice that while the preset aims to replicate the unique look of Aerochrome film, your digital camera's limitations might affect the final outcome. The preset can create stunning hue shifts, turning green foliage into vibrant magenta, but it mightn't capture the full range of colors that the original film could.

When using the RNI preset, you might experience:

• Vivid purple skies that seem to pop off the screen
• Lush magenta forests that look otherworldly
• Striking red fields that contrast beautifully with blue water
• Eerie, alien-like landscapes with surreal color combinations
• Dreamy, pastel-toned scenes that evoke a nostalgic feel

Keep in mind that your digital sensor filters out UV and infrared wavelengths, which can limit the dynamic range and color shifts compared to actual Aerochrome film.

You might find that shadow tones don't transform as dramatically as brighter areas. While the preset offers a creative way to simulate the Aerochrome look, it may not fully replicate the authentic film experience.

But don't let that discourage you – it's still a fantastic tool for creating unique and eye-catching images!

RNI Kodak Aerochrome: Creative Applications in Photography

Versatility defines RNI's Kodak Aerochrome Lightroom preset, offering photographers a wealth of creative possibilities across various genres. This powerful tool excels in outdoor landscape photography, transforming lush forests and verdant scenes into surreal masterpieces. You'll watch as green foliage bursts into vibrant reds, creating striking visual contrasts that captivate viewers.

But don't limit yourself to landscapes! The Aerochrome simulation opens doors for creative experimentation in automotive and portrait photography too. You can add a unique artistic flair to your images by playing with color shifts and saturation adjustments. When working with portraits, especially those featuring darker skin tones, you'll appreciate the ability to fine-tune lightness settings to maintain natural-looking results.

Genre	Key Feature	Creative Tip
Landscape	Vibrant red foliage	Shoot in lush forests
Automotive	Unique color shifts	Experiment with reflections
Portrait	Adjustable saturation	Preserve natural skin tones
Experimental	Surreal touch	Play with white balance

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Kodak Aerochrome Work?

Kodak Aerochrome's unique effect comes from its sensitivity to infrared light. It captures invisible infrared wavelengths, turning green foliage into vibrant reds and pinks. You'll see striking color shifts that create surreal landscapes in your photos.

Are RNI Presets Good?

Yes, RNI presets are generally considered good. You'll find they're easy to use and can quickly transform your photos. They're especially valuable if you're looking to achieve film-like aesthetics without spending hours on manual adjustments.

Does Lightroom Have Kodak Film Presets?

Lightroom doesn't come with built-in Kodak film presets. However, you can purchase and install third-party presets like RNI's Aerochrome to emulate Kodak film looks. These add-ons offer various options for achieving film-like aesthetics in your photos.

When Was Kodak Aerochrome Discontinued?

Kodak Aerochrome was discontinued in 2009. You'll find that this unique infrared film ended its long production run due to declining demand for film photography. It's a bittersweet moment for many photographers who loved its surreal color effects.

Why won't Kodak bring back Aerochrome?

Bringing back Kodak Aerochrome would be impractical for several reasons:

1. Complex manufacturing process requiring specialized equipment and facilities
2. Limited market demand compared to mainstream film products
3. High production costs due to the unique infrared-sensitive emulsion layers
4. Loss of original manufacturing expertise and knowledge following discontinuation
5. Required chemical components may no longer be readily available
6. Modern digital alternatives can simulate similar effects
7. Economic challenges - Kodak's film division has significantly downsized since Aerochrome's era
8. Focus on more profitable and mainstream film products in current market

The combination of these factors makes reviving this specialized film economically unfeasible for Kodak.

Why did Kodak discontinue Aerochrome?

Kodak discontinued Aerochrome III Infrared Film 1443 in 2007 due to declining demand, manufacturing costs, and the shift towards digital photography. The specialized nature of infrared film meant it had a relatively small market, primarily serving aerial survey and military surveillance applications. As digital imaging technology advanced and became more accessible, the need for specialized infrared film decreased significantly, making it financially unsustainable for Kodak to continue production.

Why is Aerochrome so expensive?

Aerochrome film is expensive due to several factors:

1. Limited production - Kodak discontinued manufacturing it in 2009
2. Specialized manufacturing process - Required unique infrared-sensitive emulsion layers
3. Scarcity - Remaining rolls are from old stock, driving up prices
4. Storage requirements - Needs careful refrigeration to maintain quality
5. Complex development process - Requires specific chemicals and handling
6. Originally military/scientific use - Not mass-produced for consumer market
7. Collector's item status - High demand from photographers for its unique false-color effects
8. No current alternatives - Few comparable infrared films available today

What filter is best for Aerochrome?

Orange #21/Wratten 21 filter is considered optimal for Aerochrome photography. This filter blocks blue light and allows infrared light to pass through, producing the characteristic false-color effect where healthy vegetation appears in vibrant pink or red tones. Yellow #12 or Deep Yellow #15 filters can also be used as alternatives, though they produce slightly different results.

What is RNI Aerochrome and how does it relate to portrait photography?

RNI Aerochrome is a Lightroom preset collection that simulates Kodak's discontinued Aerochrome infrared film. In portrait photography, it creates striking magenta and purple tones in vegetation while maintaining natural skin tones, producing surreal and dreamlike effects.

How does blue light affect the RNI Aerochrome preset results?

Blue light components in an image are typically rendered as darker tones when using RNI Aerochrome presets, while red and infrared light components appear as bright magenta or purple. This creates the characteristic false-color effect associated with infrared photography.

Can portrait subjects wear blue clothing when using RNI Aerochrome presets?

Blue clothing may appear darker or shift to unexpected colors when using RNI Aerochrome presets. For optimal results, subjects should wear neutral or warm-colored clothing to maintain better control over the final color rendering.

What lighting conditions work best for portrait photography with RNI Aerochrome presets?

Bright, direct sunlight produces the most dramatic results with RNI Aerochrome presets, as strong infrared light creates more pronounced color shifts. Shooting during golden hour can enhance the warm tones and create more balanced color transformations.

How can photographers adjust the blue channel to fine-tune RNI Aerochrome effects in portraits?

Photographers can modify the blue channel in Lightroom's HSL panel to control the intensity of the Aerochrome effect. Reducing blue saturation can help maintain more natural skin tones while still preserving the dramatic effect in surrounding vegetation.

Conclusion

You've now got the lowdown on RNI's Kodak Aerochrome preset! It's a fun tool that'll transform your photos into eye-catching, surreal landscapes. Whether you're snapping portraits or nature scenes, this preset offers endless creative possibilities. Don't be afraid to experiment with different settings to find your perfect look. Remember, while it's not exactly like shooting with the original film, it's a great way to add some retro flair to your digital photography. So go ahead, give it a try and let your imagination run wild!