Reflections

Reflections can be seen in the water, of course. But, there are other ways to get reflections. Here are a few ideas to get you started

1. A large black shiny tile
2. A mirror
3. Windows, especially at night
4. Glass surfaces
5. Sunglasses
6. Puddles
7. Ice
8. Crystal Ball
9. Software
As you can see there are lots of choices other than a huge still body of water. This is excellent for you if you live far from the water.

Black Tile/Granite I went to a flooring showroom and bought one big 2’ X 2’ black tile for $12.00. There is enough room to do some really cool reflection photos on small objects. Maybe you have a black granite counter or tile floors that reflect well. My favorite subject to shoot on tiles are flowers. White works great because the contrast is excellent.

You can use any kind of lighting you have for these photos. Personally, I use the utility clip lamps with the LED light bulbs, because they don’t get hot. Point the light right on the subject and look at the angles. If the light is too harsh you can put a white garbage bag over the light to diffuse it. If you are not using the LED lights I would not recommend covering the lights at all, as they will get too hot. Also, remember to move the lighting around to get the effect you want.

A mirror is a little more challenging, but you can put it in a box or something that is solid, so you have nothing in the reflection except what you want to show in the photo. You can also experiment with a mirror outside. The photos of the people holding mirrors on their body are very neat. Maybe give those a whirl. You can also hold it flat under the lens and see what interesting things you get. A small black reflective tile or a small welders replacement glass will work too. The welder’s glass is sold in the hardware store for about 3 bucks. Side note: They make a great DIY ND Filter. I will put that in the tips soon.

Windows and glass can make people do a double take. It’s fun to have one side of the photo with a person and all the things around them, then it seems (depending on the angle) that all the other stuff disappears or is faded. You're left with just the person on the other side or vice versa. Then there are buildings made of mirror windows, you can do great and fun abstracts with the surrounding buildings or landscape.

Sunglasses can really create a wonderful scene. Set them down on the ground or way up high. See what creations you can come up with using a simple pair of sunglasses. Even indoors, maybe on the tile.

Ice and puddles work for reflections too. Puddles pick up colors in cities and really add to the photo. With ice, silhouettes look uniform and sleek. Possibly post some nice black and whites with reflections of bare trees. Since its July, you might have to search your archives.

A crystal ball is fun and will turn everything upside down. You can order them online and not only take photos your friends will envy but now you can tell them what will happen tomorrow.

Ok kidding aside (for the moment anyway) When you use the crystal ball, just set it on something and see how it looks. Decide if its interesting enough and shoot shoot shoot! Try some indoor shots too with smaller objects.

However, there is a very serious danger in the sun with crystal balls. It will light something on fire very quickly! It’s best not to use it in the direct sun and store it in a closet out of any light when not in use. It can also burn your hand, be very careful of that as well. You see, I have a crystal ball, so I am able to tell you your certain future if you use it in the direct sun.

Software programs are available to do reflections if you enjoy working on your photos in the computer. Each one will vary in its quality and ease of use. You can find great learning videos on YouTube.

Another quick tip is to try getting low. I know, I know, it might be hard to get back up but did you think you got a tripod just to hold your camera? It is multifunctional, just be sure to take the camera off before using it to get back up. 😊

For night photography, water reflections work great, especially with buildings and lots of lights around. Tips for night photography will be coming next.

Videos below

For those interested in using wide-angle lenses:
Bryan Peterson

Inspiration:
Great Reflection Photos

Ideas and using a bit of software:
Ray Scott