Ideas for photos in the mirror
Published: 26.01.2021
If you are looking for a quick and easy way to take unique photos, mirror photography is for you. All you need is a mirror (or several mirrors), patience, and our ideas for mirror photos.
Read our tips on taking photos with a mirror using a camera or phone. Find out how you can use mirrors of different sizes indoors and outdoors. Our tips and ideas will make your photos much more interesting.
Use artificial light
Hollywood stars love cosmetic mirrors. And for good reason. Hollywood's cosmetic mirror casts even light on the model. Such mirrors are perfect for glamorous photography or behind-the-scenes shots. If you are a fan of handmade items, you can make a vanity mirror with your own hands.
A photo in the mirror offers unlimited possibilities. Mirrors allow you to take photos at any time and in any place. If you are taking photos at home, experiment with different looks. Take great photos in low light conditions. Work with artificial lighting and camera settings.
Artificial light enhances the features of the model. When shooting, don't forget to manually adjust the color temperature and ISO. Color temperature will help correct unflattering tones, and ISO will help take sharp photos in low-light conditions.
Clear photos with a mirror - with manual focusing.
Depending on the concept of your shoot, you may have to deal with a large number of busy foregrounds and backgrounds in the compositions.
Because of this, the autofocus may capture the wrong object or may not be able to focus at all. Especially if you are working with a small f-number, for example f/1.2. Avoid this by switching to manual focus. Manual focus will allow you to capture exactly what you want.
Don't worry that the mirror you're using creates distortions on the model's face. They will only be noticeable when the photo is enlarged, so there shouldn't be any issues with them.
Expand the space with mirrors
In small spaces, such as an elevator, there are mirrors that create the illusion of more space. Use this technique to your advantage when shooting in small spaces.
If you live in a small apartment, take a large mirror to create mirror images of the model from a distance. This is especially convenient if you are using a zoom lens, which is usually not practical for indoor use.
Large mirrors can be used to create more space between you and the model. This will make the model feel more comfortable and give her the opportunity to pose.
Surrealistic effect with mirrors
To create a surreal effect of infinity, you can use several mirrors.
Surrealistic photography is otherworldly concepts and stories that resemble fairy tales. Some photographers edit photos to create unusual images. Others add props and use their imagination to capture an unedited masterpiece.
However, you don't necessarily need professional editing skills or props to create surrealistic photos. Using mirrors (at least two), focus on specific parts of the model's face, and capture the parts that are not visible through reflections in the mirror.
You can improve the image using any reflective surfaces, even puddles after rain.
Photos in the mirror deserve a separate thematic album. You don't need to print the photos separately for this. We will print your photos directly on the pages of the Light album. Choose the Portfolio design. Upload images to the free Mapi7 editor and create a thematic Light album. You can even upload photos from your phone.
Take a picture of the model and yourself in the mirror
If you want to take conceptual photos of yourself, be prepared to spend a little more time and patience on the photoshoot.
Portrait photography typically focuses on the person standing in front of the camera. Everyone behind the camera should be invisible. Mirror photography is an exception to this rule, as you can photograph both yourself and your model in the mirror.
This technique adds depth to creative self-portraits. It helps visually expand the space in a photo or fill empty areas in the composition. But make sure to use this technique sparingly. The more you use it, the more unoriginal your concepts will become.
Try creating self-reflective portraits with shattered mirrors to bring out some creativity.
Photo in the mirror on the street
There are many interesting outdoor locations that can be enhanced with the use of a mirror. By using a large or small mirror, you can cover parts of the model's body, reflect a beautiful location, or even use it to improve landscape photography skills.
We recommend taking a small mirror for photos in nature. Carrying a large mirror is impractical.
Recreate the picture of travel
Do not rush to pack your bags for an epic journey to take exciting photos. Recreate travel photos using a car. No driving required!
Use a side mirror or rear-view mirror to focus on the model. Make sure the background (preferably in an attractive location) is also visible. This technique will give the photo depth and create a sense of adventure.
Self-portrait with a Mirror
Mirror selfies have become so popular that they are no longer interesting. But that doesn't mean they can't be used to create unique self-portraits with a mirror.
Just don't focus on yourself. Create an atmosphere, including objects near the mirror in the composition. For example, a bedroom will help add a comfortable and pleasant atmosphere to the frame.
Abstract portraits with a small mirror
Abstract portraits are unusual and bright. To create such photographs, resembling paintings, or simply to highlight one part of the model's face, small mirrors will come in handy.
Take a compact powder box or a pocket mirror to experiment with this effect. A prism can help make the distortions more distorted. Focus carefully to achieve clear results.
A portable mirror will reflect more of your model's face and make it easier for you to focus on it. Since both of these mirrors are available at the same price, we recommend experimenting with both.
7 cool ideas for photos with a mirror
Mosaic.Buy a cheap mirror and carefully break it. Glue the shards to a rope and hang them up. If you place a model in front of the mirror shards, you will get an image similar to a mosaic.
Mirror reflections.Use shards of a broken mirror to reflect light onto an object and create bright highlights. Alternatively, you can use shards to overlay reflections on an object and create an illusion.
Symmetry.Place the model to the side in front of a large flat mirror. Take a picture of the object together with its reflection. This will create a sense of perfect symmetry.
Infinity.Take four flat mirrors. Make a box out of mirrors with openings on top and in the front. Then place the model you want to photograph inside the mirror box. The numerous reflections of the object in the mirrors will create a sense of infinity. You can achieve a wow effect by placing two mirrors facing each other.
Sky and earth.Put the mirror on the ground, and you will get a clear contrast between the ground and the sky. Contrasting different backgrounds will give your photos a unique element. For example, you can take a photo with a mirror in a field for a beautiful background, but you can try anything: sand, pavement, pool edge, etc.
Assembly.Create an interesting image by capturing reflections in several unexpected places. For example, take a tiny shard of mirror and carefully fix it on the palm of your hand. Adjust the angle and take a photo to capture the reflection of the eye, lips, or any part of the body. Attach the shard to a window overlooking a beautiful scene and photograph the model at an angle to capture the reflection of your model's eye.
The perfect gift or a beautiful way to showcase mirror photos is to order a photo calendar. Upload your photos to the template of the free editor and create a cool calendar. At the end of the year, don't throw away the calendar. Carefully cut out the calendar grid and you'll have a photo album :)
Accessories.Decorate your mirror as you like, just to make it a little more special. For example, attach some flowers around it to bring a touch of spring and boho atmosphere!
Do not expect to get the perfect shot on the first try. Play around with the mirror and see which angle you like best. Try to decide if you want to capture just the reflection of the model in the mirror or the model with the reflection.
Even the simplest mirror can help elevate portraits to a new level. By reflecting light from the surrounding environment, mirrors create virtual objects for photography. However, how you choose to use them entirely depends on your creative thought process.
