Short-wave infrared imaging (SWIR) is an emerging technique that can allow researchers to image deep and fast (video-rate) in vivo, but it is limited by the availability of compact probes with a narrow size distribution. Quantum dots are a promising material class for SWIR contrast agents, but their applications are limited by the lack of compact ligands compatible with SWIR-emitting nanocrystals. We present a new ligand system that can produce monodisperse, water-soluble SWIR dots stable over long periods of time.