Tackling Reflections: A Practical Solution for Imaging Shiny Objects

Hello, photography enthusiasts! Welcome to another blog post from the Everyday Photographer. Today, I want to share a practical anecdote from my day job as an engineer at Sienza Energy, where I discovered a simple yet effective solution to overcome reflections while designing an imaging testbed for shiny metal objects. So, let's dive into the world of engineering and photography!

In my role at Sienza Energy, I often encounter fascinating challenges that push me to think creatively. Recently, I was faced with the task of designing an imaging testbed to capture detailed images of shiny pieces of metal. However, I encountered a significant obstacle: reflections.

Photographing shiny objects comes with its own set of difficulties, mainly due to the reflective nature of their surfaces. The glare and unwanted reflections can obscure the details and impact the overall quality of the images. Overcoming this hurdle became my top priority.

After thorough research and experimentation, I stumbled upon a practical solution. It involved the clever use of backlighting and a spherical two-way mirror. I discovered this technique in a helpful YouTube video that I want to share with you: https://youtu.be/aPpooK9SUWs - "How to Photograph Reflective Products short Intro" by Eric Espinosa.

The video showcased how placing a spherical two-way mirror strategically between the camera and the shiny object could diffuse the light and minimize reflections. By positioning a light source behind the mirror, the reflections were significantly reduced, providing a more even and balanced illumination.

Inspired by this idea, I decided to implement the technique in my imaging testbed. Using a spherical two-way mirror, I positioned it carefully to minimize reflections and placed the backlighting behind it. As I looked through the camera lens, I was amazed at the immediate difference. The reflections that had previously plagued my images were now greatly diminished, allowing the true beauty of the shiny objects to be captured.

This simple yet effective technique relies on the ability of the spherical two-way mirror to spread the light evenly, creating a diffuse and controlled illumination. It ensures that the entire object is well-lit without any distracting hotspots or glare, revealing the intricate details and textures that might have otherwise been hidden.

Implementing this solution allowed me to capture stunning images of the shiny metal pieces, free from the distractions of reflections. It was a moment of success—a problem solved through practical engineering and applied to my passion for photography.

As the Everyday Photographer, I'm always eager to discover innovative techniques that enhance our photography skills. This experience reminded me of the interconnections between different fields of knowledge. Drawing inspiration from engineering principles, I was able to find a practical solution for my photography endeavors.

So, dear readers, if you ever face challenges with reflections while photographing shiny objects, I encourage you to try this technique of backlighting and a spherical two-way mirror. It may be the missing piece to unlock captivating imagery.

Remember, photography is an art that thrives on experimentation and creativity. Let's continue to push boundaries, blend different disciplines, and uncover new possibilities. Stay curious, capture those remarkable moments, and embrace the power of photography.

Until next time, The Everyday Photographer

The Everyday Photographer

Hey there, fellow photography enthusiasts! Welcome to the very first blog post of the Everyday Photographer. I'm thrilled to embark on this exciting journey of documenting my love for photography and sharing my experiences with all of you. Allow me to introduce myself and shed some light on the path that led me to this moment.

Photography has always held a special place in my heart. From a young age, I found myself captivated by the magic of freezing moments in time, capturing emotions, and telling stories through images. I have my dad to thank for sparking this passion within me. He introduced me to the wonders of photography, teaching me the basics and igniting a lifelong curiosity.

As life unfolded, I found myself on a different path, pursuing a Ph.D. in a field seemingly unrelated to photography—microscopy. Little did I know, this scientific endeavor would deepen my understanding of light, optics, and image formation, casting an intriguing new light on my love for photography.

During my graduate studies, while immersed in the fascinating world of microscopy, I discovered the intricate physics behind light and its behavior. Learning how to manipulate and control light for precise imaging awakened a new perspective within me. I realized that the principles I was exploring in the laboratory were closely intertwined with the art and craft of photography.

Armed with this newfound knowledge, I began to experiment with my camera, blending the technical aspects I had learned with the creative instincts that had always guided me. While I may not be formally trained as a photographer, I've come to understand that passion and dedication can often bridge the gap between formal education and self-discovery.

And that's where the Everyday Photographer comes into the picture. This blog is a manifestation of my desire to document my ongoing journey of learning and growing as a photographer. It's a platform where I can share my successes, challenges, and everything in between. As I continue to develop my skills and delve deeper into the vast realm of photography, I hope to inspire and connect with fellow enthusiasts who are equally passionate about this incredible art form.

Through the Everyday Photographer, I aim to explore various genres of photography, experiment with different techniques, and delve into the technical intricacies that shape the way we perceive and capture the world around us. Expect a mix of captivating images, insightful tips and tricks, personal anecdotes, and perhaps even the occasional misadventure. Together, we'll navigate the evolving landscape of photography, appreciating its rich history while embracing the boundless possibilities of the present and future.

Before we embark on this journey together, I invite you to visit my website, www.mbedross.com. There, you'll gain a deeper insight into my life, my experiences, and the moments I've had the privilege of capturing through my lens. It's an opportunity to connect on a more personal level and learn more about the person behind the Everyday Photographer. If you’re on instagram, checkout my personal page and my Everyday Photographer page too!

I'm thrilled to have you join me as I embark on this incredible voyage of self-discovery through the art of photography. Let's explore, learn, and create memories together, one click at a time. Stay tuned for exciting updates, insightful discussions, and captivating imagery that will ignite your own passion for photography.

Remember, every day holds the potential for a remarkable photograph. Let's seize those moments and make them last forever.

Until next time, The Everyday Photographer