Reflection Photography 101

Mirror iconic landmarks in unexpected places, frame cityscapes in puddles, and capture street scenes in shop front windows. This is the world of reflection photography, a captivating genre that reimagines the familiar in a refreshing way.

Reflection photography goes beyond simply capturing a scene. It brings into play reflective surfaces like water, glass, or even metal to create a unique perspective, often showcasing a doubled or distorted image of the subject. These reflections can add depth, intrigue, and a touch of the surreal to your photos.

The beauty of reflection photography lies in how readily available it is. Reflections are everywhere, waiting to be discovered by curious eyes. From the tranquil surface of a lake to the gleaming chrome of a car fender, even the most ordinary objects can become portals to a captivating visual world.

Mastering reflection photography requires a shift in perspective. Here are some ideas to train your eye to identify potential reflective surfaces and capture stunning photos with reflections:

• Travel with a Twist:  Iconic landmarks take on a new life when mirrored in a nearby puddle or window. Seek out unique angles that incorporate these reflections, offering a fresh perspective on well-trodden tourist destinations. Reflect the Eiffel Tower in a street vendor's coffee cart or mirror the Taj Mahal in its ornamental pool.

• Embrace the Rainy Day: Rain-slicked streets and puddles can transform into impromptu canvases for captivating reflections. The streets shimmer and reflect light, creating a dazzling backdrop of light and colour for any kind of photography. Just make sure you pack an umbrella and keep your camera protected.
• Street Photography with a Double Take:  Cities can offer a heap of potential reflective surfaces. Look for mirrored shop windows, puddles reflecting neon signs or even the gleaming exterior of a building. Capture the energy of the city streets, day or night, by incorporating these reflections into your composition.

While spontaneity plays a vital role in reflection photography, a few key considerations can elevate your outdoor shots:

• Weather Matters:  Calm, windless days are your best friends. Wind can disrupt the surface of the water, creating distorted reflections. If you are photographing on a windy day, look for sheltered areas or reflective surfaces less prone to disturbance, such as still ponds.
• Location Scouting:  Scout for potential locations with interesting reflections beforehand. Consider the scene's composition, lighting conditions, and the type of reflection you want to capture, such as clear, precise, distorted, or dreamlike.
• Light is Key:  Natural light is your best ally. Capture reflections during golden hour for warm, dramatic lighting that emphasises the mirrored image. Overcast skies can also be beneficial, diffusing light and creating softer, more ethereal reflections.

The technical aspects of reflection photography are similar to standard photography, but a few adjustments can optimise your results:

• Focal Length and Aperture: Choose a focal length that allows you to isolate the reflection from the background. A wider aperture (lower f-number) can help blur the background and emphasise the reflection.
• Shutter Speed:  The ideal shutter speed depends on the desired effect. For still reflections, use a slower shutter speed. If you want to capture movement, like ripples on water, consider a faster shutter speed to freeze the action.
• Circular Polarisers and ND Filters:  These camera lens filters can be game changers for outdoor reflection photography. Circular polarisers reduce glare on reflective surfaces like water, creating clearer and more vibrant reflections. ND filters allow you to use slower shutter speeds even in bright light, which can help capture smooth, dreamy reflections on water or a bit of motion blur.

Want to delve deeper? Check out this fantastic video on reflection photography for additional tips and techniques.

Once you've identified your scene and adjusted your camera settings, remember the importance of composition. Use the rule of thirds to create a balanced image, ensuring the reflection is placed thoughtfully within the frame. Pay attention to leading lines that draw the viewer's eye towards the reflection. Consider including foreground elements to add depth and context to your image.

Reflection photography is a constant exploration of the world through a distorted mirror. The key to mastering this genre lies in experimentation. Don't be afraid to try different angles, lighting conditions, and compositions. Embrace the unexpected and see where your creativity takes you.

We have a wide range of cameras, lenses, and filters to equip you for your reflection photography journey. From tripods for stability to wide-angle lenses for capturing expansive reflections, our friendly staff can help you find the perfect gear to elevate your reflection photography. Get ready to start capturing beauty found in reflections. Happy photographing!