The phytogram technique can also be combined with camera footage by processing the film following the standard reversal process. Instead of re-exposing, the film is taken out of the darkroom into the sunlight and is rolled out on a flat surface. Pre-prepared plants (soaked in the same solution as described) are applied to the filmstrip, replacing the second developer. The result of this is a combination of camera images and phytograms; plant structures intermingling with filmed images.
Also, several iterations of plant application can be done, resulting in a more layered and complex composition. The first layer should not be heavy and dark, leaving enough silver-halide to darken during the second application. Thinking about composition, the possibilities are endless, starting from a completely random distribution of plants, to highly intricate and frame dependent patterns. Any form of direct animation on film is time-consuming and requires dedication and patience on the side of the filmmaker. However, working with living material is rewarding.
Phytogram 