Have you noticed that some images have the power to deceive us into seeing, for example, objects of the same size with different proportions? However, just look more closely at the picture to prove that it is all a mere optical illusion.

In fact, playing with the differences between colors, the way objects are positioned, their proportions and shapes can make our eyes see compositions through a whole new perspective.

Positioning

To create the illusions, the objects that make up the figure are strategically positioned, taking advantage of their shapes, colors, and sizes, because depending on the way they are organized, they can fool our eyes, giving us the impression that they are the same. Objects have different sizes, for example.

(Image source: Playback / Planet Perplex)

In the case of the illusion above, although the two figures have identical shapes and sizes, we get the impression that the creature in the background is larger than the one in the front, all thanks to the way all the elements are arranged in the drawing.

Color contrast

Another way to fool our eyes is to take advantage of the contrast between colors. In the case of the blocks below, although both are exactly the same size, we get the impression that what's inside the white square is bigger. In fact, this is because the object with the white border draws our attention most.

(Image Source: Playback / Color Basics)

In addition, small objects of similar sizes arranged by color or dimension will appear to be grouped, just as lines and colors are used to deepen two-dimensional images.

(Image Source: Playback / How it Works)

Proportions

Straight lines may appear slanted, and strokes of the same size may appear to be different. It all depends on how these compositions are organized. Look at the picture below and see how the dashes at the ends of the lines make the three pictures look completely different sizes.

(Image source: Reproduction / Wikipedia)

Real life illusions

The fashion industry, for example, uses and abuses these devices, and we have all learned that dark colors and vertical lines, for example, have the power to fine-tune the silhouette, as opposed to more vibrant prints and horizontal lines.

(Image source: Playback / Skeptics)

And for you, reader, which of the two compositions above most favors the silhouette of the model?

Sources: How it Works, eHow, Ask How, Color Basics, Planet Perplex, Skeptics, and Mighty Optical Illusions