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

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ICT 0417 – Images – Reflecting an Image

ICT 0417 – Topic 12: Images

Learning Objective

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

Key Concepts

  • Reflection (Flip) – a transformation that creates a mirror image.
  • Horizontal flip – mirrors the image along a vertical axis (left ↔ right).
  • Vertical flip – mirrors the image along a horizontal axis (top ↔ bottom).
  • The original image data is not lost; a new version is created.

When to Use Each Type of Flip

SituationHorizontal FlipVertical Flip
Correcting a scanned document that appears backwards✓
Creating a mirror effect for design work✓
Flipping a portrait to change the direction a person faces✓
Adjusting a landscape photo taken upside‑down✓
Preparing an image for printing on a reverse‑side label✓

Step‑by‑Step Procedure (Using Common Software)

  1. Open the image file in the chosen editor (e.g., Paint, Photoshop, GIMP).
  2. Locate the Flip command. It is usually found under Edit → Transform or Image → Rotate/Flip.
  3. Choose the required direction:
    • Horizontal Flip – sometimes labelled “Flip Horizontal” or “Mirror Left‑Right”.
    • Vertical Flip – sometimes labelled “Flip \cdot ertical” or “Mirror Top‑Bottom”.
  4. Preview the result if the software provides a live preview.
  5. Confirm the operation.
  6. Save the flipped image:
    • Use Save As to keep the original unchanged.
    • Choose an appropriate file format (e.g., .jpg, .png).

Practical Tips

  • Always work on a copy of the original file.
  • Check the orientation after flipping; some images (e.g., text) become unreadable when flipped the wrong way.
  • Combine flips with other transformations (rotate, crop) for more complex edits.
  • Remember that flipping does not alter colour or resolution.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Confusing horizontal with vertical flip – remember the axis of reflection.
  2. Over‑writing the original file without a backup.
  3. Flipping an image that contains directional text (e.g., “LEFT”) without correcting it later.
  4. Assuming that a flipped image will automatically improve composition; evaluate the result.

Assessment Checklist

  • Can you identify the correct menu command for flipping an image?
  • Can you explain the visual difference between a horizontal and a vertical flip?
  • Can you perform both flips and save the results without altering the original file?
  • Can you justify which flip is appropriate for a given scenario?
Suggested diagram: A simple square with arrows showing the effect of a horizontal flip (left‑right reversal) and a vertical flip (top‑bottom reversal).

Extension Activities

  • Experiment with flipping animated GIFs and observe how the animation direction changes.
  • Use a spreadsheet to record the time taken to flip a batch of images and calculate the average.
  • Explore the impact of flipping on image metadata (EXIF data).

Summary

Reflecting an image horizontally or vertically is a fundamental editing skill. It involves mirroring the picture along a chosen axis, creating a new version while preserving the original. Mastery of this technique supports tasks such as correcting orientation, creating design effects, and preparing images for specific printing requirements.