How to use reflections in your photography

Hey everyone!

For the first article of this blog, I want to talk to you about one of my favourite experimenting aspects in photography: reflection .

Reflections can add a whole new dimension to your photos, creating depth, interest and beauty. So, let's dive in and explore how reflection is used in photography.

First of all, let's define what we mean by reflection in photography. Reflection is when light bounces off a surface and then back into the camera lens, creating an image of the object that the light is reflecting off. This can happen with all sorts of surfaces, from water to glass, mirrors, and even objects with a shiny finish, like cars.

So, let's take a closer look at how to use reflections in your photography.

Look for natural reflections

One of the easiest ways to incorporate reflections into your photography is to look for natural sources of reflection. Bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans, are obvious choices. But don't stop there – look for other reflective surfaces as well, such as windows, mirrors, and even shiny objects like cars or metal sculptures.

When you find a reflective surface, take some time to study it and see how the light is interacting with it. Move around to find the best angle and composition, and experiment with different camera settings to capture the reflection in the most interesting and dynamic way possible.

Play with composition

Reflections can be used in a variety of ways to create interesting compositions. For example, you can use reflections to create symmetry in your image, or to create a sense of depth by capturing a subject in both the foreground and background. You can also use reflections to add a sense of mystery or intrigue to your image, by only capturing a partial reflection or by framing your subject in a way that leaves the viewer wondering what else might be happening just out of frame.

Experiment with different compositions and see what works best for the image you're trying to create. Don't be afraid to try something new or unconventional – sometimes the most interesting images come from taking risks and breaking the rules.

Use reflections to tell a story

Reflections can also be used to convey emotion or tell a story in your images. For example, a reflection of a couple walking hand-in-hand can symbolize their connection and love for each other, while a reflection of a solitary figure can convey a sense of loneliness or isolation. Think about the message you want your image to convey, and use reflections to help communicate that message.

Consider the lighting

Finally, it's important to consider the lighting when using reflections in your photography. Light can play a big role in how a reflection appears in your image, and can create different moods and feelings depending on how it's used.

For example, shooting during golden hour (the hour before sunset or after sunrise) can create warm, soft light that can make a reflection appear more vibrant and inviting. On the other hand, shooting during the blue hour (the hour after sunset or before sunrise) can create cooler, more subdued light that can give a reflection a more mysterious or moody feel.

Experiment with different lighting conditions and see how they impact the reflections in your images.

In conclusion, reflections are a powerful tool for adding interest, depth, and beauty to your photography. By looking for natural sources of reflection, playing with composition, using reflections to tell a story, and considering the lighting, you can create images that capture the viewer's attention and imagination. So, next time you're out shooting, take a closer look at the world around you and see how reflections can help you tell a story with your camera.

Copyright © Melita Ntala 2023. All rights reserved. This article and its accompanying photos are the intellectual property of Melita Ntala and may not be reproduced or used without permission.