There seems to be an unspoken rule of internet life: if you try to sell a mirror, the mirror might sell you…
Often, what should be a straightforward listing photo—“Large wall mirror, excellent condition”—degenerates into a surreal, unintentional self-portrait series. A half-dressed arm, a phone hovering in mid-air, a suspiciously framed pair of feet… these images have become a genre all their own, shared all over the ‘net.
It’s voyeurism and slapstick rolled into one oddly compelling scroll.
If you don’t want to end up on the Rogue Reflections Wall of Fame. And you do want your online listing to sell the mirror and not your dignity, here’s what you should consider…
Try to avoid straight-on shots. Photograph the mirror at a slight angle so that it reflects a plain wall or ceiling rather than you standing there holding a phone. This simple tip can help to reduce any visible clutter and embarrassing reflections.
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“The second rule when photographing shiny or reflective objects is to remember to light what the object is reflecting, not the object itself,” notes the DIY Photography site. “So for example, if you want the mirror’s reflection to appear white or with a nice gradient then you need to create that for it to reflect.”
This applies whether you’re photographing a stainless steel teapot, sunglasses, a trumpet or a mirror.
Don’t forget to clean the surface of the object you’re photographing, advises photographer, Rachel Kimberley.
“Reflective surfaces are often also prone to fingerprints and smudges, so if you are working with a lot of glass or metal in your scene it's a good idea to wear cotton gloves while styling - this will prevent you from having to edit out marks and prints later,” the expert writes, adding that it also helps to keep a microfiber cloth and a spray bottle of water and vinegar mix handy, to clean the reflective objects.
If you’re selling a mirror, treat the photo like any other product shot: plan the background, tame the light, and resist the impulse to stand in frame.
And if you’re browsing, enjoy the accidental art and the comic timing. There’s something oddly comforting about collective face palms and reflections gone rogue.
Luckily for those who enjoy this type of content, it would seem that for as long as humans try to photograph reflective surfaces, we’ll keep finding new ways to end up in the picture.
Sometimes unintentionally stealing the listing’s thunder, but always delivering a laugh.
