Reflections Using a Single Mirror

A mirror is the most obvious source of a reflection. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t be used in a powerful way. A single mirror can be used to show two sides of the same person or two people’s point of view, or to create balance in a photograph.

Two Sides of the Same Person

Oftentimes, when photographing on location, you will find a single mirror in a hotel hallway or inside a house. This mirror can be used to show a physical feature of a person or showcase, for example, an accessory that individual is wearing in the reflection. These are just a couple of the countless possibilities to try when using a single mirror in your composition. Image 9.1 was taken inside a hotel lobby in Santa Barbara, California. There are many aspects to admire in this beautiful bride—her jewelry, her gorgeous headpiece, and her elegant jawline. The only way to showcase all of these elements in a single shot is to use a mirror. Looking at the reflection, you can now appreciate how beautiful her jawline is. As you can see, all of the elements I wanted to feature in this portrait are now visible. If you are a children’s photographer, you can take a photo of a child holding something behind his or her back and use the reflection of a mirror to complete the story and reveal what it is the child is hiding.