#PhotoFestival21 - Day 3 : Reflection
Make a mini photo project exploring reflections using mirrors, water, and shiny objects; experiment with angles, light, and symmetry to create striking images.
About this activity
Make a mini photo project exploring reflections using mirrors, water, and shiny objects; experiment with angles, light, and symmetry to create striking images.
What you need
Step by step
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Step 1
Choose a flat workspace with room to spread out near a lamp or window.
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Step 2
Lay the towel on the workspace to protect the surface.
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Step 3
Place the colored paper or fabric on top of the towel as your background.
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Step 4
Put the mirror on the background where you want reflections to appear.
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Step 5
Prop the mirror at an angle using the roll of tape or small ball of clay so it stays tilted.
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Step 6
Fill the shallow bowl or plate halfway with water and set it near the mirror.
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Step 7
Arrange shiny objects on the mirror edge and in the water to make interesting reflections.
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Step 8
Turn on the lamp or flashlight and aim the light toward the objects to create bright reflections.
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Step 9
Slowly tilt the mirror and watch how the reflections change.
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Step 10
Move the light or the shiny objects to try different angles and looks.
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Step 11
Use your camera or phone to take several photos from different angles and distances.
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Step 12
Pick your favorite photo and share your finished creation on DIY.org
Fun facts
How do I do the #PhotoFestival21 - Day 3 Reflection mini photo project?
Start by choosing a small theme (faces, toys, nature). Arrange reflective surfaces—mirrors, a shallow water tray, or shiny objects—on a stable table. Position your camera or phone at different heights and angles to catch reflections and symmetry. Move light sources or shoot near natural light to change contrast. Take many photos, vary distances and angles, and review images to refine composition. Edit lightly for brightness and crop to emphasize mirrored patterns, then share with #PhotoFestival2
What materials do I need for the reflection photo project?
Gather a smartphone or camera, small mirrors (or compact mirrors), a shallow tray or bowl for water, shiny objects (spoons, foil, metallic toys), a flashlight or lamp, background paper or cloth, tape or non-slip mat, and a stand or tripod for the camera if available. Optional: colored paper, spray bottle for water texture, and a soft cloth for cleaning. Use plastic mirrors and spill-proof containers for child-friendly setups.
What ages is this activity suitable for?
This project suits many ages: toddlers (3–5) can experiment with shiny toys and supervised splashes; elementary kids (6–9) can arrange objects and learn basic angles with adult guidance; older children (10+) can independently control camera settings, lighting, and composition. Always supervise younger kids around glass, water, or small parts. Adjust complexity—simple reflections for little ones, creative editing and symmetry challenges for older children.
What safety tips should I follow for reflection photography?
Keep safety first: prefer plastic or safety-backed mirrors to avoid shards, and secure mirrors on flat surfaces to prevent tipping. Use shallow water and wipe spills immediately to prevent slips and protect electronics. Avoid shining lights directly into anyone’s eyes or camera lens. Supervise younger children, keep cords tidy to prevent tripping, and avoid small reflective items that are choking hazards. If using glass, handle only with adult supervision and a stable setup.
Watch & Learn
Need help?
What can we use if we don't have a small mirror, shallow bowl, or roll of tape?
If you don't have a mirror, smooth aluminum foil onto stiff cardboard as a reflective surface, use a clear plastic container or a zip-top bag half-filled with water instead of a shallow bowl, and prop the mirror with crumpled paper or an eraser in place of tape or clay.
Why are my reflections dim or the mirror keeps slipping, and how can I fix that?
If reflections are dim, move the lamp closer or aim the flashlight directly at the shiny objects and reduce room light, and if the mirror slips secure it with more tape or a firmer prop (like a small book wedge) on the towel so it stays tilted while you photograph.
How can we adapt this activity for younger kids or make it more challenging for older kids?
For younger children, have an adult set up the lamp and mirror, use a plastic mirror and large, safe shiny objects with a very shallow or no-water tray, while older kids can experiment with colored paper backgrounds, two mirrors at different tilts, and varied camera distances for more creative photos.
What are easy ways to extend, improve, or personalize our reflection photos?
Personalize the project by adding colored cellophane over the lamp for colored reflections, sprinkling glitter or sequins in the bowl, arranging objects to tell a story, and editing your favorite shots into a collage before sharing on DIY.org.