Reflecting On Reflections
Seeing Beyond the Subject: Harnessing Reflections to Tell a Richer Story
Photography is more than capturing a subject; it’s about revealing hidden dimensions within the frame. One powerful technique every photographer should explore is using reflections to add depth, context, and narrative to their images.
Take, for example, a simple portrait of a child wearing sunglasses. At first glance, it’s a straightforward image—a friendly face framed by bright glasses. But look closer: the lenses hold a sunset sky, hinting at the world beyond the subject. This interplay between the face and its environment transforms an ordinary photo into something layered and compelling.
To master reflection photography, start by training your eye to notice surfaces that mirror the world—windows, puddles, metal, and, of course, sunglasses. Experiment with angles: shifting just a few inches can dramatically alter what appears in your reflection. Pay close attention to lighting—reflections often look best when illuminated by soft, indirect light, especially during golden hour.
Reflections also invite your audience to linger. They spark curiosity: Where is this? What am I really seeing? They turn passive viewers into active participants who decode the visual puzzle.
When composing shots with reflections, think about balance. Make sure the reflected scene complements your main subject rather than distracting from it. Sometimes, a slight tilt of the head or adjustment of your position can bring everything into harmony.
Ultimately, incorporating reflections isn’t just a technical exercise—it’s a creative mindset. It trains you to look beyond the obvious and discover hidden stories in your surroundings. Whether you’re capturing candid street scenes or intimate portraits, reflections can elevate your work, infusing it with atmosphere and mystery.
Keep experimenting, and you’ll soon see your photography—and the world—through a more imaginative lens.
Key Takeaways
Using polarized lenses to get richer reflections.
Shooting at golden hour for dramatic skies.
Position yourself carefully so that the reflection aligns perfectly without any distracting distortions.
PhotoCamp Daily is not a newsletter about the technical skills required to be a good photographer or photojournalist. There are many videos, self-help books, training courses, and classes, and then there is the power of social media as an instructional tool.
PhotCamp Daily is about learning to experience making good photos and better observe subjects and their relationship to the story. Learning to express yourself better will become a collective view of your world and the new experiences you will encounter.
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