Mirrored backdrops are an easy way to make your layout appear larger. When used well, mirrors can virtually double the apparent size of a layout in virtually no space. A mirror can be attached to any backdrop surface. Simply make sure to adhere it well enough to avoid seven years of bad luck!
Like all scenic elements, mirrors are often best used when used sparingly. Here are some tricks to getting the most of your mirrors.
Angle
Mirrors will work almost anywhere, but it is best if they are not perpendicular to the edge of the layout. Nothing spoils the illusion faster than seeing your own reflection! Layout and room lighting and other non-railroad elements can also find their way into the mirrored background. Mirrors should be perpendicular to the ground in front of them to avoid a glaring peak or rut.
Hard angles also pose a problem for photography if you use a flash. Try to angle the camera away from the mirror, or use a longer exposure and no flash.
Concealing the Edges
Use trees, buildings, bridge piers to hide the edges of the mirror. "Natural" borders of trees, shrubs or rock often work best as the irregular edges will give a more varied reflection. Using a bridge along the backdrop with mirrors below allows the horizon to appear well beyond the painted sky. For man-made borders, avoid using printed signs, billboards, or other elements that will give away the illusion.
A small hill, building, or other diversion a few inches away from the mirror can be used to block the viewer from seeing it from undesired angles.
Everything's Backwards
A mirror won't discriminate between what you want to reflect and what you don't. Printed signs and numbers, including railroad cars, will be reversed. Cars will appear to be driving on the wrong side of the road toward a head-on collision. One trick to avoiding these direct reflections is to use two mirrors placed at a right angle to each other and 45% angles to the road.
Double Your Investment
Painting the mirror-side of objects in the foreground different colors than the isle-side helps hide the fact that the viewer is seeing a reflection. Vehicles and figures are easy to double-paint. Varying shades of foliage can have the same effect in natural scenes.
