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
Situation
Horizontal Flip
Vertical Flip
Correcting a scanned document that appears backwards
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Creating a mirror effect for design work
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Flipping a portrait to change the direction a person faces
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Adjusting a landscape photo taken upside‑down
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Preparing an image for printing on a reverse‑side label
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Step‑by‑Step Procedure (Using Common Software)
Open the image file in the chosen editor (e.g., Paint, Photoshop, GIMP).
Locate the Flip command. It is usually found under Edit → Transform or Image → Rotate/Flip.
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”.
Preview the result if the software provides a live preview.
Confirm the operation.
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
Confusing horizontal with vertical flip – remember the axis of reflection.
Over‑writing the original file without a backup.
Flipping an image that contains directional text (e.g., “LEFT”) without correcting it later.
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.