These Magic Eye Images Only Work For Some People — But They Can Reveal A Lot

It’s actually fairly simple. All you need to do is gaze at one of these pictures in a certain way, and a hidden 3D shape should leap out at you. But this is easier for some people than for others. If you’re having trouble finding the secret figure in these illusions, use this ingenious technique. It even comes courtesy of the Magic Eye makers themselves, so you know it’s legit!

According to the official Magic Eye method, you need to start by looking at the middle of the picture right up close — so the screen is almost touching your nose. Obviously, it’s going to appear blurry at this stage, but that’s okay. Next, you should “focus as though you are looking through the image into the distance.” Okay, you’re almost there.

The Magic Eye instructions continue, “Once you perceive the hidden image and depth, you can look around the entire 3D image. The longer you look, the clearer the illusion becomes.” And the further back you move, the deeper the illusion becomes. But if you still can’t see anything? There’s actually a scientific explanation why.

If you’re not able to spot the hidden images in Magic Eye illusions, there may be a problem somewhere in your stereo or binocular vision. It could be that you could have a misalignment in one or both of your eyes. This could be down to astigmatism, for example, or even cataracts. But don’t call your optometrist right away; try out the technique you’ve just learned with the following images.

At first, this Magic Eye picture may remind you of an old television set. Remember the static you’d see on the screen when the TV wasn’t tuned in properly? But dig a little deeper into this image, and you’ll find something much more fantastical. A rearing unicorn should jump out of the blur.

No, your eyes aren’t deceiving you! This red image – which dashes across your screen from left to right – contains a moving shape hidden within. Relax your peepers, continue looking, and you will be amazed by the vision of a shark swimming across your screen. On the hunt for prey, perhaps?

Some Magic Eye pictures reveal images that are more impressive than others. It’s all a matter of opinion, of course, but this one in particular is a doozy. Gaze into the abyss, and you will soon discover the name “Leyla” partially submerged in water. Pretty special, right?

This one is a nice little variation on an autostereogram, as the image of what may or may not be Earth reveals a message that could well be deeper in meaning. The letters that appear say “H20” – the chemical formula for water. And given that our planet is covered in the stuff, that seems quite appropriate.

Isn’t this just a close-up of a sweater? Well, no, it’s definitely an autostereogram! And these particular colors combine to create a chilly atmosphere that doesn’t make the 3D reveal seem out of place. For reference, the image is of a downhill skier in full flight.

Magic Eyes may be tied to the ’90s, but this example has a rather more modern twist. Yep, it reveals something that has become very much ubiquitous in the 21st century: an emoji. Gaze at this particular picture, and you’ll soon be met by a playful yellow guy with his tongue sticking out. Maybe you could DM this to a buddy when they’re next being rude?

Let’s be honest for a moment: not every Magic Eye image will have you gasping “wow” in amazement. Yes, while the concept is pretty compelling, some of the 3D reveals themselves are just a little, well, boring. But that’s not the case with the majestic-looking feline that shows itself here. You can almost reach out and pet it.

Stereograms are all about visual depth perception, and they don’t come much better than this particular illustration. The reveal is a winding spiral contour, which could be interpreted as any number of things. Mesmerizing.

There’s definitely a trippiness to this particular picture. It’s like an album cover from a 1960s psychedelic rock band! But if you can tear your eyes away from the bright colors and focus, a pair of bells should rise up out of the madness to meet you.

Even as a 2D image, this pic is pretty arresting. That sequence of swirls or spirals running left to right is neatly interrupted by what could be described as a ripple effect akin to a stone being thrown into a pond. But this definitely is a autostereogram. And the reveal is another swirl or spiral.

Often the constituent parts of a autostereogram are interesting in themselves. That’s certainly the case with this example, which appears to be made up of a number of wild animals that wouldn’t be out of place on the African savannah. Neither would the imposing 3D elephant that reveals itself upon closer inspection.

Quite often with a Magic Eye picture, the 2D scene gives absolutely no clue as to what 3D figure will leap from the page or screen. Well, that’s probably half the point! So, you’d definitely be forgiven for imagining a beautiful golden field of wheat or corn when first glancing at this image. Look on, though, and a rather noble hawk reveals itself.

This autostereogram has a lovely reveal. It’s rather regal in itself, with all of the shimmering golds conjuring up images of a crown or some other piece of finely crafted jewelry. That said, the 2D pictures on display at the bottom are a bit of a giveaway that the 3D figure within is indeed of a ring.

What’s the first thing you think of when you look at this particular image? A swarm of bees, perhaps? Or a field of Van Gogh sunflowers? Whatever it is, it’s likely to have a summer vibe. So, would you believe that the reveal is actually an umbrella? Well, perhaps that’s fitting if you live in the famously rainy U.K...

If you stare into this image and are immediately reminded of the coat of a particular African animal, then you’re on the right track. And within moments – as long as your technique is right, of course – you should be met by the rather lovely sight of a trio of zebra. A family, perhaps?

This one will help pick you up in the morning. The coffee beans are, of course, very easy to spot. But get your divergence right while looking at the picture, and you’ll also be met with a nice hot beverage of some sort. We only wish that we could reach into the screen and grab it...

This is an intriguing-looking image in itself. But keep on gazing, and you’ll be able to make out the unmistakable contours of one of the world’s most iconic buildings. Want a clue? It’s in India. Yes, that’s right! It’s none other than the magnificent Taj Mahal.

There’s definitely something fantastical about autostereograms, don’t you think? And this example certainly takes that otherworldliness and runs with it. The marvelous creature that rises up to meet us here is the famed Pegasus of Greek mythology. In case you don’t remember from your school days, it’s basically a horse with wings.

Take a look at this illustration of a grayscale checkerboard with a green cylinder set on its edge and casting a shadow across it. As you can see, one of the squares is marked “A” and a second “B.” And it’s quite plain the former is quite a lot darker than the latter. Or so it seems. In fact, these two squares are exactly the same shade of grey. 

As you can see, this illustration of a railroad track has two yellow lines drawn across it. The upper line is obviously longer than the lower one. But yet again, our brains are playing a trick on us. As you might have guessed, the truth is that these two yellow lines are exactly the same length. 

This extraordinary image, named Rotating Snakes, creates a highly captivating illusion. The circles appear to rotate, rather like a bunch of serpents writhing around. You could almost swear that you were looking at a video clip. But trust us, you’re not. The movement you see is entirely in your own mind. Your eyes are playing a trick on your brain. 

So not strictly a Magic Eye image but still pretty cool. It was a British psychologist called Richard Gregory who first named the Café Wall phenomenon. Why did he settle on the name? Well, it was because he had literally spotted the illusion in the brickwork of a café in the English city of Bristol. Look at the lines running across the picture. They’re not parallel are they? Oh yes they are — prove it to yourself with a ruler. 

If you’re prone to seasickness, you might want to exercise a little caution while you look at this one. That’s because the illusion of movement created by the blue dots on their green background can make anyone feel a little queasy. But if you can relax into it, the movement can actually be almost soothing.

Just try to count this elephant’s legs: it’s guaranteed to drive you nuts. Of course, we all know full well the number of legs the beast should have. Four, of course. But as you attempt to count them, they seem to dodge across the drawing. But here’s a top tip. Cover over the elephant’s feet, and the image will settle down to show the expected number of limbs. 

There’s something most definitely not right about this strange cube: it appears to defy the normal logic of geometry. The famous Dutch artist M.C. Escher created this illusion, notably using it in a 1958 work titled Belvedere. It’s a powerful illusion — you could spend a lot of time trying to unravel exactly what’s happening. We have!

Look at these lines. The upper one is divided in two by the slanted lines. The left-hand sector is clearly longer than the right-hand side. Now take the lower two lines. Again the left hand section is longer than the right, yes? No! All four lines are exactly the same length. Doubtful? Check it with a ruler! You’ll be surprised...

Take a glance at this work and you’ll likely see one self-evident image. But examine it for longer and you should begin to spot that there are actually two entirely different ways to see this picture. Indeed there are two different women portrayed here and they could hardly be more contrasting. There’s an older lady of rather unflattering appearance, but then there’s a younger, attractive woman.

Now here’s the Hermann Grid playing tricks on your perception. Notice the grey dots you can see as they appear intermittently in the intersections of the grid? They’re not actually there at all. Stare closely at one intersection and the dot disappears. But you can still spot them in other intersections in your peripheral vision. At least, that’s what happens to us. 

Dario Varin, an Italian psychologist, introduced the world to the neon color-spreading illusion in his 1971 paper Chromatic Contrast and Diffusion Phenomena — no doubt it’s a fascinating read. What this illustration shows is a neon color circle. We see a circular disc thanks to the blue coloring of the otherwise blank lines. The disc is not actually there. 

Here’s an illusion to really tangle and confuse your neurons. The two pieces of railway track in the image above clearly appear to be different lengths: the upper one looks shorter than the lower. If only that were true. But the fact is that the two pieces are entirely identical in size. Yes, we know that seems incredible.

So, the question is, what do you see when you look at this image? As it’s titled Rubin’s Vase, you very probably see a vase on first glance. But look again, concentrating on the black part of the picture, and you’ll see something quite different: two human faces looking at each other. In other words, the single illustration contains two quite different images. This illusion was created in 1915 by psychologist Edgar Rubin, a Danish psychologist.

You’ve certainly heard of both silver-screen star Marilyn Monroe and 20th-century genius Albert Einstein. But a composite figure of the two is likely much less familiar. But here it is, a single image of each combined to create a somewhat nightmarish character, Marilyn Einstein. It comes as something of a surprise to learn that researchers created this image as an aid to the diagnosis of sight problems.  

Now we’re asking you to give the red dot in the middle of the blue circle a hard stare. After a time, the blue surrounds will start to fade and eventually disappear altogether. This is the Troxler Effect and it’s named after Ignaz Troxler, a Swiss doctor and philosopher who discovered the phenomenon in 1804.

This illusion takes us onto city streets to view images created by clever artists. By employing just the right angles, it’s possible to create amazing illusions such as these giant teacups tumbling from a building. An artist with a good understanding of perspective and human perception can create astonishing images.

If you see a landscape, good for you! That means you have plenty of get-up-and-go. You live life in the moment and are up for new adventures. And routine is probably a total bummer. Instead, you like to mix up your activities so that you never do the same thing two days in a row. But some people see something else entirely...

There’s also a face hidden in this image. Can you see it? It’s looking toward the bottom of the frame. If that’s the most obvious thing about the illustration to you, then you like to be organized. Yes, you’re a stickler for planning, and knowing exactly what you’ll be doing tomorrow and beyond gives you a sense of security.

This illusion identifies which part of your brain is dominant. If the animal you see in the illustration is a squirrel, then it’s said that you’re a logical thinker and great at analyzing things. That’s a sign of the left hemisphere of your brain being the one that does a lot of the conscious work.

Conversely, if a duck pops out at you, then the right hemisphere of your brain is the one with the greatest influence. Your talents revolve around being creative and artistic rather than methodical and scientific. And don’t worry, as this doesn’t actually mean that one side of your brain is disconnected from the other.

Stare at this multi-faceted illusion for long enough, and it should reveal three distinct images. There’s a baby here, for instance, and seeing this vision first suggests you frequently love to carve out alone time – so don’t let people make you feel bad for not wanting to paint the town red.

There’s also a pair of lovers looking out over a bay beneath some trees. If you were immediately drawn to them, you’re more inclined to be loyal to a small group of friends and shy away from the commotion of crowds and big parties. But if the trees were the most prominent thing to you, then maybe you’re full of energy. You take life’s challenges in your stride, too, and live for variety.

What stood out to you first in this image? If all that you saw was the cliff, you probably have a positive outlook and so can tackle pretty much anything life throws at you. But maybe you saw the white cat curled up on the clifftop? That suggests you’re someone who dislikes change and prefers to keep their emotions in check. People can rely on any promises you make, though.

But if the first thing that jumped out at you was a face, then that’s a sign of creativity. You see opportunity all around you and are highly inquisitive. Learning more about the world is key for you, as is finding contentment. Maybe you’re also naturally intuitive with a fondness for literature, poetry, music and art.

What is it that you can see in this illustration? Perhaps a face is most prominent, and if that’s the case then you’re likely laid-back and approachable. People may feel comfortable unloading their problems on you, too, as you’re sympathetic and genuinely care.

But maybe that’s not what you spot at all. Instead, you may see a witch waving a wand at a figure kneeling before her. That means you’re ambitious in all your endeavors. Whatever the task at hand, you have to be better at it than anyone else. But while it’s good to have lofty aspirations, don’t let yourself burn out trying to achieve them.

Sometimes our eyes can play tricks on us. Take this illusion, for example. There’s something about the color and make-up of the bubbles here that may make it appear as if they’re moving. Well, don’t worry, you’re not going mad – not according to us, anyway.

There’s nothing wrong with your eyes, either, but just more going on in your brain. You see, noticing the bubbles whirling around suggests that you’re musically inclined. You may be a virtuoso or just have a good ear. Either way, you have a great sense of groove – and probably some nifty moves on the dancefloor.

This is one of the most famous optical illusions illusions in the world. Created in this form by William Ely Hill, it dates all the way back to the early 20th century, although it may have existed in other incarnations even before that. And research carried out by two professors of psychology suggests that people see different things in the picture depending on how old they are. Find out which one you see.

The illustration is called “My Wife and my Mother in Law,” and academics at Flinders University in Adelaide showed it to 393 people aged from 18 to 68. The study showed that the youngest 10 percent of participants saw a young woman peering over her right shoulder (shown in the left image). The eldest 10 percent, by contrast, saw an old woman looking toward the bottom left of the frame (shown in the right image). The young woman’s chin is the elderly lady’s nose. See it now?

Still not sure whether you’re an introvert or extrovert? Well, this illusion should clear things up. If the first thing you saw in this image was the saxophonist, then you’re an extrovert. That’s right: you love to socialize and often are the life and soul of any gathering. People fall over themselves to be buddies with you, in fact. But be careful not to burn out. Remember to rest once in a while to recharge your batteries.

If you initially spotted the outline of a face, by contrast, then you’re probably an introvert. Parties or crowds and excess noise can leave you feeling run-down both physically and emotionally. You’re more of a homebody, then, who doesn’t need to be told twice about burning the candle at both ends – well, unless you often stay up late binging your favorite shows.

Through sleep-heavy eyes, you pour yourself a morning cup of joe. Then after settling down at your desk for a morning’s work, you look down and realize you’re not alone. Staring up from inside your mug is an owl – yes, an owl. Most people spot this illusion straight away. And once you’ve seen it, it’s almost impossible to wake up and smell – or see – the coffee for what it really is. But why?

Well, as Vox reporter Brian Resnick puts it, “Our brains unconsciously bend our perception of reality to meet our desires or expectations. And they fill in gaps using our past experiences.” In other words, because your brain has seen lots of owls before, it’s relatively difficult to rewire how you perceive this photo. What may help, though, is knowing that someone apparently plopped two O-shaped potato chips into their mug to make this beautiful illusion. Does that change how you see it at all?

Notice the face of a beautiful woman? That also reveals something about your personality – and no, we’re not talking about being prone to a wandering eye. In this instance, seeing the woman in this image means that you’re generally tuned into your immediate environment. This helps make you a sound judge in many situations, and your gut reactions are usually spot on.

But what if you can only see flowers? Well, apparently, you like to leave the fast pace of everyday life behind and relax in nature. This doesn’t mean you normally take the world around you for granted, mind. And if you’re ever feeling a little frazzled, you now know just what you need to do.

Oleg Shuplyak, an architect by trade, likes to make mind-bending art that blends famous faces with more everyday imagery. And his work is said to reveal your least desirable characteristics. Take this portrait as an example. What jumps out at you first? If it’s Shakespeare, then apparently people are put off by your self-centeredness. Or did you spot the lady lying on the bed instead? Well, we have more bad news: your slapdash approach to life may be harming your romantic prospects.

If your eyes were immediately drawn to the man in a turban, though, that’s not much better, as it’s possible you’re the covetous type. Finally, if you spotted the rose on the floor, then your naive nature is potentially off-putting. That’s according to an analysis by website YourTango, not us – so please don’t shoot the messenger...

Normally, if you tell someone that you can see a big blue cat, they’ll probably offer you medication – or at the very least an eye examination. But if you spot a feline form in this image, it actually means that you’re a realist. You’re down to earth when it comes to life, and by seeing the bigger picture you’re able to better plot your way through.

If the mouse is most obvious to you, on the other hand, then you have an optimistic disposition and like to try and find the positives in any scenario. And while some may believe that you’re prone to flights of fancy, you’re still actually in tune with your surroundings. It’s just that you happen to always see the glass as half-full.

Colors, too, can play a part in character analysis. Take this image as an example. Which shade is most prominent in your eyes – blue, yellow or turquoise? Well, yet again, your answer could give a surprising insight into your temperament. If yellow dominates for you, apparently you’re both easygoing and adaptable.

If you see a lot of turquoise, then The Wonder List claims you’re a restless risk-taker whose imagination fuels a creative streak. Those who mostly notice the deeper blue, on the other hand, are very analytical and have perfectionist tendencies. So which color calls to you?

At first glance, you may see three trees looming in front of a sunset in this illusion. And if that’s the case, then you’re incredibly perceptive – a trait that serves you well. You’re also easygoing to the point that you’re happy whiling away hours doing very little. But what if you actually spotted something else?

Maybe the first thing that sprang out at you was the face of a cat or tiger. This suggests there’s a certain single-mindedness to your nature – much like a big cat stalking their prey. Yes, seeing a predatory feline in this image likely means that you’re determined and tend to stick to any decisions you make.

For many folks, an image of a frog leaps out of this illustration – pun completely intended. What that says about them is that they are forthright and have a no-fluff approach to communicating with others. They’re seen as stable and self-assured, too. But what does it mean if you see a horse instead?

Well, if the illustration looks more equine to you, then you’re considered to be contemplative with a penetrating intellect. Not everything is necessarily as it first appears to you, and so you’re prone to looking for deeper meaning in things. You’re unlikely to be swayed by others’ opinions, either.

What is it that you see most clearly when you look at this image? If it’s zebras, then that suggests you love to be surrounded by people. You’re a bit of a chatterbox, too, and love a party where you can make new acquaintances. You may also prefer winging your way through situations rather than following any mundane routines.

But if a lion stands out, you prefer the quiet life. You’d rather spend time with a select few friends or one-on-one with a partner. And loading up on snacks while watching a movie at home is probably your idea of fun. Crowds of people just drain your energy, meaning you tend to avoid them at all costs.

Ah, a snowy mountain vista. If that was your first impression of this beautiful image, then you’re probably rather perceptive. You’ve come to trust your gut responses to situations when making decisions – a method you usually find reliable. But maybe you couldn’t actually see the mountains for the gray bears.

Usually, instinct would tell you to flee when confronted with bears. However, if that’s the prominent image you see here, then you have a very systematic approach to decision-making. You like to look at all aspects of an argument and fully understand it in order to come up with an efficient solution – which should still be to calmly walk away when you see a bear!

It’s perhaps pointing out the obvious to say that there is a tree in this image. If that’s the first thing you spot, then you’re said to enjoy your own company. And while you may prefer to distance yourself from others, you do still like to be among nature and the people you value the most. Apparently, you’ll also do your best to avoid upsetting your nearest and dearest. But is a tree all you can see?

If you look a little closer, you may see a couple gazing at each other. Perhaps that was even the first thing that stood out to you. If that’s the case, then you’re the sentimental type with a penchant for optimism. Using your rationality and thoughtfulness, you may even be able to help the most unsettled and flustered people compose themselves.

On first appearance, this picture may look like a Rorschach inkblot. If you keep focusing, however, you may just pick out a saxophone player. See it? Great, as that tells you the left side of your brain dominates your thinking. This means you’re excellent at interpreting situations and are probably good at learning new languages. Your razor-sharp perceptive skills may also make you the go-to person in your friend group when your buddies need words of wisdom.

On the other hand, if you can only see the image of a woman, then the right side of your brain tends to dominate. That means you’re a creative type who may like to engage in a whole host of artistic endeavors. Your emotional intelligence is strong, too, and you can be enterprising when it comes to overcoming life’s hurdles.

If the first animal you spotted in this illustration was a seal, congratulations! You’re a master of logic, and this will help you in many sticky situations. It also goes without saying that you’re a whizz at math. But that’s certainly not all. The way your mind works means that you can learn new languages pretty quickly, too. But some people are seeing something else first...

If the predominant image is of a donkey, however, then you’re perceptive and may have a sixth sense for predicting consequences. You like to work autonomously without interference from supervisors, as freedom is all to you. And when you’re faced with a tricky conundrum, you like to look over all possibilities to find the best potential choice.

Can you see a tree in this illustration? Well, if that’s the first thing you spot, then you probably possess great organizational skills. Perhaps you’re even a natural leader with a knack for solving problems. But while these are all great qualities, a little blue-sky thinking won’t hurt – especially if it helps you realize a long-held ambition.

If, on the other hand, you saw a gorilla, you may be your own worst critic. Notice the lion to begin with, instead? Well, that makes you a strong person who tends to go with their gut. And if you managed to spot the fish in the first instance, then you likely operate in the here and now, with faith and positivity that things will always work out.

Psychologists tell us that our subconscious acts as a kind of dumping ground for everything we experience – even the things we don’t remember. When you look at an optical illusion, then, your subconscious may influence what you see first, and this in turn can tell you a little about your own personality. So, if you spot an exotic bird in this image, you could be a bit absent-minded – although that idealistic streak of yours can be put to use in making the world a better place.

If this illustration appears to show a lion, however, then you like to dig deep on issues. You’re also very brave – even when it comes to facing your own insecurities. So if you’re wondering why you and your best bud see different things in this image, it’s probably down to your subconscious minds!

There are two things going on in this illustration. The most obvious for you may be a village scene, complete with what appears to be straw huts, trees and a flock of birds. Anyone who sees that image most prominently is believed to be a stickler for routine and not keen on rocking the boat. And if that’s you, there’s something else in the picture that may not be obvious straight away.

Yes, look deeper, and you’ll spot the outline of an elephant in the sketch. If that’s the vision that seems most obvious to you, though, then it’s been suggested that you treat others with consideration. You’re also a fiercely devoted friend who listens to your buddies’ problems intently. And we stress that in no way does it suggest anything about the size of your ears...

Here, you may be able to see the rear end of a dog, tail floating behind as it scurries off the right side of the frame. And if you’re nodding right now, then you’re somebody who tries to be creative when it comes to solving any issues. Using an outside-the-box approach is practically second nature to you, in fact.

If you noticed the dog’s snout pointing into the picture from the left of the frame, on the other hand, then you have a very rational approach to life. You tend to deal with problems using your head rather than your heart, taking a practical view on tackling any issues that concern you.

What do you see here? If it’s two crocodiles touching snouts, then you’re someone who likes to be in the driving seat. That means you’re probably far better at being a boss than you are at taking instruction from other people. As a leader, however, you’re unlikely to rule with an iron fist.

But if it’s a bird you see first in this image, then the roles are reversed. You’re the one who serves others well. That’s not to say you’re a pushover or subordinate – it’s just the role in which you most shine. And as somebody who is agreeable and affable, you’re seen as a person who can be relied on.

See those adorable squirrels perched on a tree limb? Not only are they cute, but they can tell you something about yourself. Spot the critters first in this image, and you’re likely to be the apple of your boss’ eye. Why? Well, you can quickly solve problems without looking too deeply into them.

There’s also a woman’s face here, which not everyone can see at all. Try looking at the image with your head tilted to the left if you haven’t already spotted it. But perhaps that was the first thing that came to mind. This means you’re unusually attentive, which may benefit you in social situations as well as in the workplace.

What’s the first thing you see when you look at the image above? Is it a silhouette of a crocodile, teeth bared and with its nose pointing toward the left of the picture? Or do those “teeth” actually appear as waves lapping at the side of a boat with two figures aboard?

Well, if the boat stood out, website The Powerful Mind says that you’re likely to pay attention to the little things. You’ll probably also come across as inventive, idiosyncratic and even unique; at the same time, though, you should take care not to get lost in specifics. If you saw the crocodile, on the other hand, you’re likely to be more pragmatic and wary. Take a few chances sometimes if you can.

One of two images should come into view here depending on whether you focus on the lighter elements or the darker areas. If at first glance, three columns stand out, then The Powerful Mind claims that it’s likely you prefer safety and calm. You may also spend more time thinking about your objectives rather than working toward achieving them – meaning, from time to time, you may have to take risks even if they feel uncomfortable.

However, if it’s the outline or two people that are more prominent for you, this suggests that you’re mercurial and perhaps a bit of a maverick. Your curiosity prevails over any instincts you may have to stay in one place. So which did you see first?

What do you see in this image? If it’s the back of a young woman’s head, then, according to The New Zealand Herald, you’re inquisitive and see the positives in life. You may also enjoy charity work or helping people in need in your community. Be wary of making knee-jerk decisions, though, even if you’re likely to see tasks through to completion.

If you initially see an old man with a mustache (see the arrow pointing to it?) then The New Zealand Herald assesses you as loyal, trustworthy, and level-headed. You’re likely to be dependable and honest with an ability to find the right way forward and lead others to this, too. Still, while you’ll usually follow a carefully plotted course to avoid impetuous choices, you should be mindful that aspiring to perfection can be stressful.

There are not two but three things you may see when looking at this image for the first time. You could have spotted a man wearing a hat looking through a set of binoculars, for instance. Alternatively, you may notice a car perpendicular to a road. Or maybe the letter “A” even jumped out at you first?

If you saw the man, then, it’s suggested that you’re better at seeing life in the round rather than sweating the small stuff. If the car initially grabbed your attention, however, then you value liberty and moving through the world according to your own rhythm – even if you may get caught up on finer details. And the letter “A”? Well, if you visualized that first, then you may have a strong ability to think laterally.

Does this image show two faces staring at each other? If that’s what you see, then according to The Powerful Mind you’re an extrovert who loves social gatherings. You’re the center of attention at parties, and your energy levels are given a boost when you are interacting with others – especially if they’re on the same wavelength.

However, if you saw a candlestick first, then The Powerful Mind describes you as less of a people person. You’re probably contemplative –perhaps even shy – and prefer to be left with your thoughts. It’s more likely that you relish alone time at home rather than going to parties, and you prefer the company of a few select people to mingling with crowds.

What do you notice at first glance in the above image? Do you see a round face with a mustache and closed eyes? Or do you perceive two birds in front of a full moon in the night sky? Well, the answer to that question could give valuable insight into how you interact with people around you.

If you saw the face first, for instance, then The Wonder List suggests that you are tactful, personable and do your best to avoid disagreements. Your instincts serve you well, too. On the other hand, if you noticed the birds initially, then you’re likely upbeat and hospitable with a knack for getting on with strangers. Often, you’re also a good sounding board for those close to you.

Can you see a superhero mask? Or is it lingerie? While to some, this picture obviously shows Peter Parker’s crime-fighting disguise, for others there’s clearly a white bra on a red background. So, what immediately comes to mind when you gaze at this image?

Well, The Wonder List claims that if you saw Spider-Man, then you have a very placid, reticent and unflappable nature. You’re probably a stickler for tradition, too, and don’t enjoy rocking the boat. If you noticed a bra, on the other hand, then you generally seek out excitement in your life and are open to trying new things. You also take each day as it comes and generally live life without regrets.

This image was created by the U.K. investment and loans company Funding Circle. And it’s the firm’s belief that what you see first can determine what kind of role would best suit you. Professional types that Funding Circle has identified include the go-to person, the business creative and the big-picture thinker. So, do you see a lynx or bird in flight here?

Well, if you spotted the lynx first, then it’s Funding Circle’s belief that you’re the type of person who can see the big picture. This would make you suitable for jobs that involve brainstorming, team assembly and project management. If, however, you saw the bird, then you’re more of a go-getter with entrepreneurial flair. People will depend on you to get the job done.

This is Vase Ambiguous Figure, devised by Danish philosopher and psychologist Edgar John Rubin in 1915. You may also know it as Rubin’s Face or Figure-Ground Vase. And those names clue you in to what you may see in the image. Do you spot a vase first, or can you see two people looking towards each other?

It’s been suggested that those who initially see a vase have the ability to see an overarching view of a situation. If that’s you, then you’re probably also someone who has little regard for detail. Those who immediately hone in on the faces, however, tend to be more in tune with the finer points of matters, and so they may realize the importance of smaller actions in achieving a greater goal.

The photographer Joaquim Alves Gaspar shot this image of a man in a tunnel in around 1970. As only the individual’s silhouette is visible, though, it’s impossible to tell whether he’s walking away from the lens or toward it. So, what does your interpretation say about you?

Funnily enough, there’s no definitive answer to this. It could be, though, that the observer’s point of view suggests they naturally possess either a positive or negative state of mind. Fear of people leaving is sometimes linked to anxiety, for instance. And, by contrast, perhaps those who believe the man is walking toward the camera generally have a more positive outlook on life.

This illustration is purported to reveal your romantic style. If you can see an old man, then, you’re open to amorous grand gestures, but they’re not the way to your heart. You prefer to keep working at a relationship to help it go the distance. Does the man riding a horse jump out at you instead? Well, in that case, you’re probably constantly on the lookout for Mr. or Miss Right – so much so, in fact, that you risk missing them completely.

If your focus is on a girl lying by the river, meanwhile, it’s likely that you’ve been burned before and fear commitment because of it. And if the stone bridge resonates with you most, then you’re more enamored with the prospect of falling in love than actually taking the plunge. You’re a bit of a non-conformist, too.

At first glance, it’s fairly easy to see the silhouette of an elephant in this image. However, spend a little longer gazing at the picture, and other animals may finally reveal themselves. Can you see a cat, a dog or a mouse – maybe even a donkey? And the greater the number of creatures you spot, the more clues are revealed about your personality.

According to The Wonder List, you’re unconcerned with details and maybe even dreamy if you can only see up to three animals. Manage between four and seven, meanwhile, and you’re more attentive – though lacking in motivation to try harder. And if you notice between eight and 13, you perhaps inevitably possess a knack for spotting details.

This more complex image is the work of Mexican surrealist Octavio Ocampo. He produces art that is open to interpretation by the viewer and where, as he puts it, “nothing is quite as it seems.” So, what’s the first thing you spot in this piece, Forever Always?

Well, some may see an old couple looking back to their youth when they were carefree and having fun. If this is what comes to mind first, then you’ve lived a satisfying life and are content with how it has played out. If you initially perceive the young couple, however, then you may still be relatively youthful and carefree – and safe in the knowledge that you have a good support network around you.