It’s not uncommon to seek inspiration in the most unexpected places. For me, the fridge often serves as a starting point for exploring alternative photographic processes. Among the usual suspects, carrots have always been a staple, favored not only by me but also by my dog. However, it was only recently that I decided to experiment with carrots for creating Anthotypes.
The Allure of Beta-Carotene
Carrots owe their vibrant orange hue to the pigment beta-carotene, a compound also found in sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and mangoes. This pigment is not just visually striking but also holds potential for creating unique photographic prints.
The Process of Pigment Extraction
Extracting pigment from carrots can be an arduous task if done manually. While using a mortar and pestle might provide a good workout, I highly recommend employing a juicer for efficiency. In the absence of a juicer, a blender can suffice, but there's a crucial step you need to follow: Do not strain the juice through a cloth.
Straining
Straining your emulsion through a cloth might seem like a good idea to remove solid impurities. We normally do this in anthotype printing. However, this method inadvertently filters out the pigment-rich pulp, leading to a significant loss of color. This is because beta-carotene dissolves better in fats or oils than in water. During the juicing process, the pigment remains in the fibrous pulp rather than mixing with the watery juice. Straining through a cloth retains this pulp, resulting in a washed-out liquid and a lackluster print.
What to do instead
Instead of straining through a cloth, use a sieve to separate larger chunks from the juice. Let the liquid sit for a few minutes, allowing any remaining impurities to settle at the bottom. Carefully use your brush to apply the pigment-rich liquid, avoiding the sediment. This approach ensures a more vibrant and consistent color application.
Experimenting with Boiling
In my quest for a more concentrated pigment, I also experimented with boiling the emulsion to reduce the water content. Unfortunately, this method caused the pigment to separate entirely from the water, creating a messy and unusable liquid. This reaffirmed the delicate nature of beta-carotene, which exposes quickly and fades just as fast.
The Results
To illustrate the difference, I made two prints. The first, a very light print, resulted from straining the liquid through a cloth. The second, more contrasted print, was achieved using a sieve. The difference in intensity highlights the importance of preserving the pigment during the extraction process.
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