Carnival mirrors make reflection look very odd. What market the reflections in these mirrors so strange?

The distorted reflections in carnival mirrors are mainly due to the curved shape of the mirrors. These mirrors have a unique design that deliberately distorts the shape and proportions of the reflected image. The market behind this is to create a fun and entertaining visual effect for people at carnivals and amusement parks.

To understand why the reflections in these mirrors appear strange, we need to consider how they are made. Carnival mirrors typically have a curved surface, which can be either concave or convex. This curvature causes the light rays bouncing off an object to diverge or converge before reaching our eyes, resulting in a distorted reflection.

In concave carnival mirrors, the mirror surface curves inward, causing the reflected image to appear elongated and stretched out. This effect is known as "funhouse mirror" distortion. Objects in the mirror may appear taller and thinner than they actually are.

On the other hand, convex carnival mirrors have a surface that curves outward. This curvature causes the reflected image to appear compressed and bulged. Objects in the mirror may look shorter and wider than their actual proportions.

The intentional distortion of carnival mirrors creates a playful and amusing experience for visitors. It adds an element of surprise and humor, as people see themselves and others in exaggerated and distorted ways.