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How to Maximize the Reflections in Glass

While a polarizing filter or an angled approach helps minimize glare when photographing glass, sometimes reflection is desired. In commercial photography or product shoots, glinting reflections are used to make glassware look brilliant and clean. Photographs of emphasized glass reflections can be seen in advertisements for restaurants, glassware catalogs or wine-tasting brochures. The effect does not require any special photographic equipment and can be replicated in a makeshift home studio.

Things You'll Need

Large white construction paper
Tape
Desk or table
Aluminum foil
Cardboard
Glass plate
Black or colored paper
Light sources
Tissue paper

Instructions

- 1
  Tape a large sheet of white construction paper to a wall. Place a desk or table in front of the wall and lay the paper across it so a smoothly curved corner is formed.
- 2
  Position a glass plate over the portion of the paper on the desk or table. This holds the paper in place and creates a transparent surface which will help reflect light up toward the glassware.
- 3
  Wrap several cardboard panels with aluminum foil to create homemade reflector panels. Place them on the ground pointing up toward the desk or tabletop.
- 4
  Place your glassware on the glass plate.
- 5
  Create lighting effects in the glassware by applying strips of black or colored paper on the reflector panels.
- 6
  Position your light sources as desired. Lighting your glassware from above and from the side at a 30- to 45-degree angle will maximize reflection.
- 7
  Add highlights to your glassware by diffusing one or more of your light sources. Wrap a few sheets of tissue paper around the lights and secure with tape to achieve smooth, even diffusion.

Photography