How and Why

I manually focussed on the reflected image to prevent a potential focus error caused by the camera's autofocus selecting the water surface or the tarmac over the reflection. I had only seconds to frame this image and make a few exposures - the soldiers didn't stay still for long and the puddle was very small allowing limited scope to frame the subject therefore presenting difficult conditions to work with.

I had to get sufficiently low to include enough of the soldiers in view and enough of the reflected arc of the Eiffel Tower for it to be recognisable but not so low that I compromised my view through the viewfinder - during this contortion I also had to be careful not to disturb the surface of the puddle - thereby causing ripples that would ruin the even reflection. During my efforts to get low enough I also had to concentrate on framing a balanced composition and excluding unwanted elements from the very busy scene (see photograph below taken at the same time of me in the act of making the exposure).

As far as framing is concerned the reason this image works for me is the fact that the soldier on the right is placed according to the "two thirds" principle of composition and that the puddle runs dry toward the left of the shot thereby clearly showing that this is a reflection and explaining the reason for the inverted image (reflection, not simply silhouette).

After making this exposure I felt a huge sense of relief surge over me - content that I'd got a good image from the trip and that the pressure was off and I could now enjoy the rest of the visit. Shortly followed by a feeling that I may need to address my photography / life balance when on holiday !

Background

Heightened security measures at the Eiffel tower provided an unusual perspective of a familiar landmark, captured in reflection.

As the picture below shows this was a surreal scene with a lot going on and I had to contort to get the perspective I was after, allowing me to simplify the scene. I was oblivious to the looks of curiosity that I was receiving from the passers by.

Thanks to Katrina my girlfriend and her quick reflexes this is a picture of me in the act of taking the above image. Katrina's photograph is, I think even more surreal than my effort. [Copyright © Katrina Tait 2007].