How to Use Reflection and Symmetry for Impactful Travel Shots

5 April 2025

Ever seen a travel photo so stunning you had to stop scrolling and stare? Chances are, it had either perfect reflection or symmetry—or both! These two photography techniques are like the secret ingredients that turn a simple snapshot into a masterpiece.

But how do you master this sorcery? Don’t worry, you don’t need a fancy camera or a PhD in photography. With a little creativity and some handy tricks, you can take jaw-dropping travel shots that make your Instagram followers wonder if you've secretly become a professional photographer.

So, grab your camera (or just your phone) and let’s dive into the world of symmetry and reflection like a pro—but with way more fun.

Why Reflection and Symmetry Are Travel Photography Game-Changers

Great travel photos aren’t just about capturing places; they’re about storytelling. And nothing tells a captivating story quite like a well-balanced, mirror-like shot.

Reflection can add depth, mystery, and drama to an image, while symmetry makes it pleasing to the eye—because, let’s be real, we humans LOVE balance. Our brains are hardwired to appreciate visual harmony (thanks, science!).

Think about some of the most iconic travel shots: a flawless mountain reflection in a still lake or a mind-bending mirror image in a puddle. Boom—instant magic.

Mastering Reflection for Travel Photography

Reflections are everywhere! You just need to train your eyes to spot them. Whether it’s in water, glass, or even shiny surfaces like car hoods, reflections can elevate your shots from basic to breathtaking.

1. Water Is Your Best Friend

If there’s one thing nature generously provides for reflective photography, it’s water. Oceans, lakes, puddles, swimming pools—heck, even a spilled drink on a café table could work (no judgment if you do this).

Tips for Perfect Water Reflections:

- The Stillness Rule: The calmer the water, the better the reflection. Early mornings are the best time for this since the wind hasn’t started its daily mischief.
- Lower Your Angle: Get low, like REALLY low. The closer your camera is to the water, the more dramatic the reflection.
- Play with Symmetry: Position the horizon in the middle of your frame to create that perfect mirror effect.

2. Puddle Photography – The Underrated Hack

Who knew puddles could be such rockstars? After a rain shower, puddles turn into mini-mirrors, reflecting everything from cityscapes to dramatic skies.

Pro Tips for Puddle Shots:

- Flip Your Phone Upside Down: This gets your camera as close as possible to the puddle’s surface, making the reflection pop.
- Look for Unusual Angles: Instead of the typical sky reflection, try capturing streetlights, neon signs, or people walking by.
- Find Unexpected Colors: Oil spills on puddles can create trippy, colorful reflections that scream artsy genius.

3. Reflections in Glass – Windows & Skyscrapers Are Fair Game

Big cities are a treasure trove for reflections. Tall glass buildings act like massive mirrors, reflecting the world around them. Use shop windows, car mirrors, or even your sunglasses for creative shots.

Tips for Glass Reflections:

- Get Close Without Smudging: Fingerprints on glass can kill the vibe. Keep it clean!
- Use People for a Dramatic Effect: A person walking past a glass window can create a unique double exposure feel.
- Experiment with Night Shots: Neon lights reflected in a window? Absolute dream.

Nailing Symmetry for Mind-Blowing Travel Photos

Symmetry is like the cheat code for aesthetically pleasing photos. Think about it—our brains crave balance. It’s why we love things like mirrored buildings, perfectly aligned bridges, and geometric patterns.

1. The Rule of Centering – When the Middle Is Just Right

Typical photography rules tell you to follow the rule of thirds, but when working with symmetry, forget that for a minute. Here, the goal is to place your subject smack dab in the center.

Where to Find Symmetry?

- Architecture: Grand cathedrals, long hallways, spiral staircases—engineers and architects just love balanced designs.
- Nature: Think rows of trees, mountain reflections, or even a butterfly’s wings.
- Street Art & Graffiti: Murals often use symmetry. Use them as creative backgrounds!

2. Doors, Bridges, and Arches – The Perfect Frames

If you’re ever stuck on where to find symmetry, architectural elements like doors, pathways, and archways are your best bet. They naturally create a framed composition that’s super pleasing to the eye.

Tips for Framing Symmetry:

- Step Back and Align: Before snapping, step back and make sure everything is evenly placed within your frame.
- Use Leading Lines: Railings, roads, or even fences can guide the viewer’s eyes straight to the focal point.
- Wait for the "Right" Moment: Sometimes, symmetry is best when it has a human touch—waiting for someone to walk through an archway adds depth and storytelling.

3. Symmetry in Nature – Mother Nature Has OCD

Nature is a master of symmetry. From butterfly wings to towering trees, look around, and you'll see patterns everywhere.

Some of the best natural symmetry shots include:

- Perfectly aligned tree rows in a forest
- Sand dunes creating smooth, balanced curves
- Mountain peaks and their reflections in still water

Combining Reflection and Symmetry Like a Boss

Individually, symmetry and reflection make for stunning shots. But combine them? That’s when you create next-level photography magic.

1. Water + Symmetry = Wow

Find a landscape with perfect symmetry (like a mountain or a temple), and then wait for the perfect water reflection to double the effect. This trick works wonders with lakes, fountains, and even cityscapes reflected in puddles.

2. Urban Symmetry + Glass Reflections

Cities are packed with reflective glass surfaces. Use them to create infinite mirrors or surreal effects. A skyscraper reflecting another building? That’s next-level urban photography.

3. People in Symmetry & Reflections

Don’t forget to include yourself in the shots! Standing in the middle of a symmetrical hallway or capturing your reflection in a puddle can add a human touch to your composition.

Bonus: Editing Tips to Amp Up Those Travel Shots

Even a great shot can use a little post-processing love. Here are a few quick edits to make your reflections and symmetry pop:

- Increase Contrast: This makes reflections sharper and more vivid.
- Play with Clarity & Sharpness: Bring out the details by adjusting sharpness just a tad.
- Flip the Image for Impact: Sometimes, flipping a reflection upside down can create a mind-bending illusion.

Final Thoughts – Travel Photography Made Epic

Using reflection and symmetry in your travel photos can make the difference between an "okay" shot and an "OMG, how did you take that?!" masterpiece. With a little patience, a keen eye, and maybe a few contortions to get the right angle, you’ll have your travel followers totally obsessed with your photography skills.

So, the next time you’re out exploring, don’t just snap randomly—look for puddles, glass, and symmetry, and turn everyday scenes into unforgettable images.

Happy clicking!