Be able to reflect (flip) an image horizontally or vertically

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IGCSE ICT 0417 - Topic 12 Images - Reflection

Topic 12: Images - Reflection

Objective

Be able to reflect (flip) an image horizontally or vertically using image editing software.

Understanding Reflection

Reflection is a transformation that flips an image across a line. There are two main types of reflection:

  • Horizontal Reflection: Flipping the image across a horizontal line.
  • Vertical Reflection: Flipping the image across a vertical line.

Horizontal Reflection

Horizontal reflection involves flipping an image upside down. Imagine a mirror placed horizontally – that's the line of reflection.

Suggested diagram: An image of a simple shape (e.g., a triangle) with a horizontal line of reflection shown.

How to perform horizontal reflection in image editing software:

  1. Open the image in the image editing software.
  2. Select the image.
  3. Find the "Transform" or "Image" menu.
  4. Look for an option like "Flip Horizontally" or "Horizontal Flip".
  5. Click the option to perform the reflection.

Vertical Reflection

Vertical reflection involves flipping an image left to right. Imagine a mirror placed vertically – that's the line of reflection.

Suggested diagram: An image of a simple shape (e.g., a square) with a vertical line of reflection shown.

How to perform vertical reflection in image editing software:

  1. Open the image in the image editing software.
  2. Select the image.
  3. Find the "Transform" or "Image" menu.
  4. Look for an option like "Flip Vertically" or "Vertical Flip".
  5. Click the option to perform the reflection.

Key Considerations

When performing reflections, it's important to consider:

  • Image Content: The reflection will change the orientation of the image elements.
  • Software Capabilities: Different image editing software may have slightly different names for the reflection options.
  • Non-Destructive Editing: Ideally, use layers and adjustment layers to perform reflections so the original image remains unchanged.

Example Table

Operation Description Result
Horizontal Flip Flips the image across a horizontal axis. The image appears upside down.
Vertical Flip Flips the image across a vertical axis. The image appears mirrored left to right.