paolo pettigiani captures the cuteness of alpaca river in infrared

following the dramatic landscapes of his bolivia infraland set, paolo pettigiani continues to capture dream-like settings with the alpaca river series. the scenes depict a red stream, inhabited by a herd of four-legged fluffy friends, situated along the road to patapampa, peru. the infrared photography seems to do the impossible in more than one sense: it turns lush green landscapes to red and makes the group of thirsty alpacas look even more cute. it is another unique series by the italian, who has previously photographed the dolomite mountains and dubai’s skyscrapers and sand.

all images courtesy of paolo pettigiani

paolo pettigiani’s alpaca river series continues to exemplify his trusted technique, where he increases the sensitivity of his camera sensor to ultraviolet, visible and infrared light. this creates the most dramatic of reactions to chlorophyll, which is a substance typically found in grass, algae and other types of greenery. as seen in the alpaca river scenes, the shrubs in the stream and on the banks are bathed in bright red hues. on some occasions, one or two of the fluffy mammals – those covered in the most foliage – receive a red cloud-like coat too.

project info:

photographer: paolo pettigiani

photography series: alpaca river

instagram: @paolopettigiani