false color visualization of zucchini fluorescence under 395 and 365nm

[Fandyus]

Pictures are almost 4k, feel free to enlarge.

I took two closeup pictures of a zucchini cross section. Both fluorescence, one under 365nm and one under 395nm, I then split each of the images into two. One image for the blue channel, one image for the red and green channels. I wound up with four images, which I then put together with a method described here. Resulting image was still largely only made up of two colors:

I used the color contrast tool in Darktable to bring out the subtle differences. It caused a lot of color noise to appear but I solved that with some Topaz Labs DeNoise AI processing.

I also adjusted contrast extensively with curves and erased the pesky bright areas in the corners. I then swapped the red and blue channel of the final result to get two color variations. You can tell me which one you like best.

 

 

And lastly, here's the infrared reference:

I illuminated this image with my phone camera LED flash, so the IR recorded here does not go very deep. It is an IR image still.

I did the same thing with a lemon cross section, I will most likely post that later. I tried doing the same method with other materials as well, but none yielded very colorful results.

[Doug A]

Terrific images @Fandyus. Of the high color shots, I like the 1st best. The blue seeds compliment the yellow surroundings. Surprised you are able to pull out so much color. Also surprised that the phone led worked for the other image. Well done.

Thanks for sharing,

Doug A

 

[Andrea B.]

I think the 3rd image is the most interesting of the series. The seeds have a natural color, so retain a realistic look while the surrounding areas give an "alien glow". Makes me think of Seeds from Outer Space -- used to grow new worlds. 

[Fandyus]

On 9/8/2023 at 12:43 AM, Doug A said:

Terrific images @Fandyus. Of the high color shots, I like the 1st best. The blue seeds compliment the yellow surroundings. Surprised you are able to pull out so much color. Also surprised that the phone led worked for the other image. Well done.

Thanks for sharing,

Doug A

 

Thanks a lot, Doug, sorry for the late reply.

[Andy Perrin]

Second image is my favorite. It has the most contrast to my eye. 
 

Topaz is wonderful. They have rescued so many photos.