Great reflection photos come from three things: a calm or smooth surface, a low camera position and careful focus. Get close to the surface, line up the subject with its mirror image and use a mid-range aperture so both are sharp. The steps below work for lakes, puddles, windows and even a wet street.
Find the Right Surface
Reflections are clearest when the surface is flat and dark underneath, and the subject is brighter than its surroundings.
- Still water: Early morning, when wind is low, gives the cleanest mirror
- Puddles: After rain, they turn streets and buildings into upside-down scenes
- Glass: Windows and shop fronts layer the street over what is inside
- Polished surfaces: Tables, cars and sunglasses give small, curved reflections
Ripples break up the image, so wait for gaps in the wind, or look for sheltered corners.
Shooting Steps
- Walk around until the reflection lines up with the subject. The angle matters, so move left and right.
- Lower the camera. For a puddle, place it near the ground and use the tilting screen if you have one.
- Decide on the composition. A centered horizon gives a symmetrical, calm look, while a thirds placement favors either the real scene or the mirror image.
- Set aperture to about f/8 to f/11 so both the subject and the reflection stay sharp.
- Choose ISO 100 to 400 and a shutter speed that suits the light. Use a tripod or brace the camera in dim light.
- Focus about one third into the scene, or between the subject and the reflection. Remember that the reflection is focused at the distance of the subject plus the distance to the surface.
- Check the screen and adjust exposure compensation by -0.3 to -0.7 if highlights are bright.
Control Glare With a Polarizer
A circular polarizing filter can cut reflected glare or deepen it, depending on the angle. Rotate it while looking at the screen. To keep a strong reflection in water, turn it to reduce the glare on the surface, but not so much that the reflection disappears. For windows, use it to remove unwanted glare and see inside.
Settings and Ideas
| Scene | Aperture | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Lake at dawn | f/8 to f/11 | Use a tripod, low ISO |
| Rain puddle in the city | f/5.6 to f/8 | Get close to the ground |
| Shop window | f/4 to f/8 | Shoot at an angle to avoid showing yourself |
| Wet pavement at night | f/2.8 to f/5.6 | Focus on lights, raise ISO |
FAQ
How do I avoid my own reflection in glass?
Shoot at an angle, wear dark clothing, or press a lens hood or dark cloth against the glass to block light behind you.
Why is my reflection blurry?
Ripples or a shallow aperture may be the cause. Wait for calmer water, close the aperture to f/8 or more, and focus carefully.
The Short Version
Find calm surfaces, crouch low, line up the mirror image and shoot at f/8 to f/11. Use a polarizer to manage glare, and try flipping the picture upside down when you edit to check the balance.
