It ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the individual. A mirror is great for capturing a more natural and candid reflection of oneself, while a camera allows for more control over the composition and lighting of the image. Both tools have their own advantages and can be used effectively depending on the desired outcome.

A mirror lens can be suitable for astrophotography, especially for capturing objects like the moon and certain bright stars. Mirror lenses are compact, lightweight, and typically have a long focal length, making them useful for capturing distant objects in the night sky. However, they may not provide the same level of image quality or sharpness as traditional lenses, and they can produce a donut-shaped bokeh effect in out-of-focus areas. Overall, while mirror lenses can be a cost-effective option for astrophotography, they may not be the best choice for capturing detailed or high-quality images of celestial objects.

A mirror-reversed camera is a type of camera that produces images where the left and right sides are flipped horizontally. This effect is created by using a mirror to reflect the image onto the camera sensor, resulting in a reversed image. Mirror-reversed cameras are often used in certain applications such as dental photography or microscopy where a true-to-life representation is not necessary.

A mirror telephoto lens can be suitable for astrophotography, as it typically has a longer focal length which can help in capturing distant celestial objects. However, there are some limitations to consider. Mirror lenses have a fixed aperture, which may not be ideal for capturing faint objects in low light conditions. Additionally, they can produce a donut-shaped bokeh effect in out-of-focus areas, which may not be desirable for certain astrophotography compositions. Ultimately, the suitability of a mirror telephoto lens for astrophotography will depend on the specific requirements of the photographer and the desired results.

For landscape photography, a camera with a high resolution sensor and wide dynamic range is ideal to capture the details and colors of the scenery. A full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens would be a good choice for capturing the vastness of landscapes. For street photography, a compact and discreet camera with fast autofocus and good low-light performance is preferred. A mirrorless camera with a prime lens or a high-quality compact camera would be suitable for capturing candid moments and street scenes without drawing too much attention.

A macro lens is typically the best choice for product photography. Macro lenses are designed to capture small subjects with great detail and clarity, making them ideal for capturing the intricate details of products. They also have a close focusing distance, allowing you to get up close to the product for detailed shots. Additionally, a lens with a focal length between 50mm and 100mm is recommended for product photography as it provides a natural perspective and minimizes distortion.

A prime lens with a focal length between 35mm and 50mm is typically considered suitable for street photography. These lenses offer a natural field of view that closely resembles what the human eye sees, making them great for capturing candid moments in urban environments. Additionally, prime lenses are often compact and lightweight, which is ideal for street photographers who need to move quickly and discreetly. Overall, a 35mm or 50mm prime lens is a popular choice among street photographers for its versatility and ability to capture authentic moments.

Both the camera and the mirror have their own unique ways of representing reality. The camera captures a moment in time and can be manipulated through editing, filters, and angles, which can distort reality. On the other hand, a mirror reflects an immediate and unaltered image of the present moment. Therefore, the mirror can be considered more realistic in terms of capturing an unedited and unfiltered representation of reality.