Seeing reflections in a photograph can instantly make a picture more appealing. They can be used to create visually interesting and unique artistic designs by adding symmetry, depth, and a sense of surrealism. Reflections are created by any kind of light (sunlight or artificial light) bouncing off a reflective surface (like a mirror or water). If the surface is smooth a clear reflection is created. A rough surface scatters light rays and the reflection becomes blurry and usually creates an artistic looking designs.
I have a few pictures showing reflections created by various reflective surfaces. For example, a large puddle of water, a mirror, sunglasses, ocean waves, beach sand, a lake, a wooden surface and a flat mirrored shelf. (Double clicking will enlarge a photograph.)
This first selection of pictures was taken close to our home on Kiawah Island, South Carolina. The first reflects the beautiful Sanctuary Hotel located next to the Atlantic Ocean. During a heavy rainstorm a large puddle appeared on the grass and part of the concrete walkway, providing the perfect reflective surface for showing off the hotel!
Reflection from a mirror.
A self portrait and the image of our front doorway reflected off my sunglasses.
Tree branches and vines reflected in shallow water, creating a lovely artistic image.
Reflected images of Red Knots (Calidris canutus rufa) searching for food. These amazing birds stop off to feed and rest twice a year during their incredible immigration journey. I have included a link concerning Kiawah’s interest in protecting these awesome birds. Plus, there is a lot of documented information on the internet. (https://kica.us/news/red-knot-survival-highlights-kiawahs-legacy-of-conservation/)
Sunlight reflecting off ocean waves ocean waves as the sun is setting over Kiawah Island.
The reflection of a swan’s head and neck as he searches for food on this lake in Florida.
The reflective surface of this deck floor is creating an interesting pattern of rain drops during this storm.
Dancing lights on a tablecloth, created by the reflected overhead lights in the restaurant.
I will close with one of my favorite pictures showing reflected glass. These were taken at a featured art exhibit in The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA) several years ago. The artist is Josiah McElheny and the title of his exhibit is Modernity, Mirrored and Reflected Infinitely2003. It was noted that his work was composed of mirrored blown-glass bottles placed on a flat mirrored shelf, showing how he pushes the optical nature of reflection into a new sculptural condition.
The Photo Challenge this week is hosted by Anne of Slow Shutter Speed. Her many pictures and explanation on Reflections, plus wonderful advice from Leanne Cole on how to take great reflections is very interesting! Be sure to check it out by clicking here.
I will close by sharing another favorite quotes.
“Connections we make to people, places, things, and ideas, are what give purpose and meaning to our lives.” – Emily Esfahani Smith
The last two are fantastic! I love them, Nora.
Wonderful reflections Sylvia. Especially loved the Sanctuary, the sunglasses (very clever!), the deck in the rain and of course the glassware.
Wonderful and imaginative reflections Sylvia!
Sylvia, I love your beautiful reflections!