Recommend trying Neutral Density (ND) filter for a darker background

[abulgatz]

An IR Neutral Density (ND) filter will let less light into the camera without affecting depth of field (DOF).

Because of the close IR strobing, this should have the effect or darkening everything but the ball.

It will probably help with misreads, and especially with putting.

[jamespilgrim]

It sounds like that would be very helpful. But Wooof - the prices I've seen are over $100. Any leads on a cheaper filter? It could be as small as 2 cm square.

[abulgatz]

I'm not sure of the exact wavelength or density necessary, or if you want reflective or absorptive, but Thor labs for example, has some near IR absorptive ND filters in the range of about $45 like this one. More options here.