Osram makes some nice, high power IR LEDs, and Digikey has started stocking some of them. These are 950 nm T1-3/4 (5mm) size, rated for
100ma continuous and 2.2amp peak (very low duty cycle pulses, no longer than 10 us). SFH5401 has a +-7 degree beam with a typical radiant intensity of 550mw/sr. SFH4502 has a +-18 degree beam with a typical radiant intensity of310 mw/sr. SFH4503 has a +-4 degree beam with a typical radiant intensity of 1200 mw/sr.They cost between $.84 and $.60, each, in single quantity.
I hope Digikey soon stocks some of the high power Osram 850 nm units. The surface mount SFH4257 looks good for a +-60 degree beam flood and the SFH4550, 5mm T1-3/4 for a tight, +-3 degree beam spot.