Refractive Photography

Using light’s refractive properties to create unique and interesting photographs.

What should we know?Refraction is the change in

direction of a wave due to it’s change in speed.

This occurs when the wave transfers from one medium to another, such as light passing through water. The change does not occur if it passes at an angle of 90 or 0 degrees.

Sound Waves

Sound waves are refracted as it travels through the air.

The speed of sound is effected by temperature

Why does this occur?

Heat, like sound, is a form of kinetic energy. Molecules at higher temperatures have more energy, thus they can vibrate faster.

Since the molecules vibrate faster, sound waves can travel more quickly.

Water Wavesdeep water shallow water and wave refraction

Light Refraction

Light is refracted as it travels through the water.

Project One

Take a regular glass and fill it with water approximately half full.

Place an object in the glass the goes both in the water and sticks out of the water.

Take photos and see what you discover.

DiscoveryYou should have discovers that the objects appears to be broken or if taken at a different angle, bent.

Why does this occur?Light waves bend as they pass from one substance to another.

This pencil appears to be bent at various angles as the light passes through air only; through air and glass; through water, air, and glass; and through water and glass.

Project Two

Fill the wine glasses or vases with water.

Use them to compose a Landscape and Portrait.

Project threeSpray water on any surface that will be interesting.

Compose an interesting photo using the properties of refraction in the water drops.

More Examples

More Examples

Reflection

What did you learn about waves?

How can you use this for future photo shoots?

How can water be used as a “lens”?