Reflected Horizons
About the project
This project explores the beauty of nature through the unique lens of water reflections, transforming ordinary landscapes into artistic creations inspired by Impressionist paintings. By focusing on how light, color, and textures interplay on the surfaces of rivers, lakes, and ponds, the photographs take on a dreamy, almost painterly quality. Each image captures a fleeting moment in nature, presenting it as an abstract work of art. The project aims to reimagine everyday scenes, inviting viewers to see the world with fresh eyes and appreciate the delicate artistry found in natural reflections.
While on my photography trips, I often wished for better lighting conditions so I could capture those perfect landscape shots, especially around midday. Wandering one time in the Lake District, I gazed into the still waters. Something magical caught my eye — the reflections of trees and skies transformed into what looked like Impressionist paintings. This discovery awakened my love for art and desire to create photographs that evoke a painterly, dreamlike quality.
This idea wasn’t entirely new to me, as I had already noticed and admired the works of other photographers who tried to make their images resemble the canvas of an impressionist painting. One particular French artist stood out, known for capturing nature through mesmerizing distortions — whether it was the shimmering waves of heat from flames or the surreal reflections in water. Their ability to transform reality into art deeply inspired me and encouraged me to explore this unique interplay between photography and painting.
Through this project, I aim to capture the enchanting world found within water's reflections, a realm that feels as though it belongs to the "Looking-Glass." The abstract beauty of this inverted reality invites the viewer into a space where nature becomes art, and each photograph feels like stepping into a living, breathing painting.
Rydal Water, Lake District. Nikon Z7
Buttermere, Lake District. Nikon Z7
Rydal Water, Lake District. Nikon Z7
The Technique
Creating these photographs might seem straightforward at first, but there’s more to it than simply pointing a camera at a body of water. The technique, while simple in essence, demands a certain level of understanding and patience to achieve the painterly effect that brings the scene to life.
The first and most important step is finding the right conditions. A mirror-like reflection on the water is rarely perfect. It requires working with the natural ripples on the surface, which can be influenced by wind, the angle of the camera, and the distance between the camera and the water. The ripples act as nature’s brushstrokes, adding movement and texture to the image, but they must be managed carefully to avoid disrupting the overall composition.
The angle of the camera is crucial. A low, near-parallel angle to the water’s surface enhances the reflective effect, while slight adjustments can dramatically change the way the reflection interacts with the surrounding landscape. I’ve found that working with ripples up close often introduces unique distortions, but stepping back creates a smoother, more unified image.
Rather than rotating the photograph to make the reflection appear upright, I prefer to mirror the image during post-processing. This technique preserves the inherent qualities of the reflection while offering an alternative perspective on the same subject. It often results in a surreal, almost otherworldly view of familiar objects.
Another challenge is dealing with distortions and unwanted particles on the water’s surface. Leaves, debris, or even bubbles can interfere with the final composition. These imperfections become particularly noticeable when the sunlight hits them directly, creating highlights that draw attention away from the scene’s main focus. Patience is key here—sometimes it takes time for the water to settle or for the right light to balance these distractions.
The entire process is as much about observation and timing as it is about technical skill. Capturing the perfect moment involves a harmonious blend of natural elements and artistic intent. Each photograph becomes a reflection not just of the landscape, but of the careful dance between light, water, and perspective.
Working with water reflections offers unlimited possibilities for creative exploration. By focusing on small details, you can transform familiar landscapes into striking abstractions that lean toward contemporary art, where shapes, textures, and colors take center stage.
The ripples on the water surface are the true magic. They add movement and texture, resembling brushstrokes on a canvas. These natural distortions blend and reshape the scene, creating dynamic and unique compositions.
Another captivating technique involves zooming in on the distorted details within the water’s reflection. By focusing on smaller sections of the scene, the image transforms into an abstract composition, revealing intricate patterns and textures. These close-up shots often resemble contemporary art, where the interplay of colors, shapes, and ripples takes center stage.
This approach highlights the natural distortions caused by ripples, light, and motion, creating results that feel both organic and artistic. By isolating these details, you can craft unique visual stories that draw viewers into the microcosmic world of water reflections, offering an entirely new perspective on familiar landscapes.
Windermere, Lake District. Nikon Z7
Derwentwater, Lake District. Nikon Z7