How to create candle reflections?

Question

I put some burning candles on a cement floor, and I could see their reflections; so could my f1.8 50mm G lens.

Because of the dull background wall, and the floor and the wall together making a visible horizon, I am thinking of putting a chart paper beneath the candles and up the wall behind to make an 'infinity curve'.

Now, the problem is that the paper will prevent the reflections from occuring, and I don't have glass or other substance than paper.

To counter the problem I was thinking of spreading some water on the paper and then placing the candles on that. Another option would be to place transparent polythene on the paper. Would this work? Or does anyone have a better suggestion?

How about glazed paper and laminated paper? Which will be better?

Asked by Anisha Kaul

Answer

A couple of ways to do this are to get bendable plexiglass or lexan and rig something to create the "infinity" bend. A couple of boards and clamps should do the job pretty well. That way you get the reflection and the "infinity" look. I favor black opaque plexi for this, but your tastes may be different.

A different approach is to do it as you are and put the background of your choice behind the candles. You have a line to patch in every frame, but it's just a line so patching might be easier than creating a special rig. Plexiglass can be a bit pricey.

Answered by Steve Ross

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