We see our world in a variety of vibrant colors that often make us wonder how any of this is possible. But in truth, we can’t see that much light at all, at least if you factor in all the types of light. Our visible spectrum consists of less than one percent of the electromagnetic spectrum, leaving us unable to see the likes of gamma rays, X-rays, infrared, microwaves, radar, and ultraviolet light… at least with the naked eye.
While we can’t see these types of light naturally, we do have ways to perceive and visualize it. French filmmaker Mathieu Stern and UV photographer Pierre-Louis Ferrer recently decided to collaborate on a project that would make these normally unseen wavelengths stand out, by shooting 10 different types of fruit with a UV camera and checking out the results.The fruits were illuminated by UV-emitting lamps, then they were filmed through a UV lens filter, which allows only ultraviolet light to pass through and be perceived by the camera. According to the video description, “UV filters are made from special colored glass and may be coated or sandwiched with other filter glass to aid in blocking unwanted wavelengths.”
As you might expect, the results varied from fruit to fruit, although each was beautiful in its own way. While kiwi and strawberry seemed to absorb almost no UV light, fruits like apple, orange, and especially pineapple absorbed a lot and shone through a brilliant and saturated purple.
Check it out for yourself above, and let us know why you think certain fruits react this way. Could it be due to acidity, or some other set of factors? Hypothesize in the comments!
Featured Image: Mathieu Stern/YouTube