Sometimes all it takes is a change in perspective for us to view things differently or understand how things can change drastically around us without us even really knowing. That is until we see a comparison side by side.
Whether it’s a difference in time, a variation in size, shape, or even color click through these 50 photos that document some of the most drastic comparison and contrast throughout the world!
1) Then And Now: Cancer Patient vs. Cancer Survivor
Two images side by side that tell very different stories. At only 4-years-old Noah was a cancer patient living with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) which is a very serious and rare form of leukemia. Through years of chemotherapy, a bone marrow transplant, and countless days and nights spent in the hospital, Noah became a cancer survivor at only 7-years-old. The before and after comparison photo you see was apart of the hospital’s “My Life Is Proof” campaign.
2) Asher’s Adoption Day in 2012 vs. Today
Adopting a dog can be one of the most heartwarming experiences. One user on Reddit, EricaH121, shared two images in comparison of the dog she adopted. The top picture is the day she adopted her dog Asher in 2012 and the bottom photo is a more recent photo of him smiling from ear to ear with a healthy fluffy coat of fur happy to finally be home. Through the comparison photos, we can all see and admire the impact Erica has made in Asher’s life.
3) Difference Between Urban, Suburban, and Rural
One user on Imgur shared a slide from her class that explains the difference between urban, suburban, and rural settings in a…very funny and unique way. The slide explains that if you can stand naked on your front porch and your neighbors cannot see you then you must live in a rural area. If you stand naked on your front porch and your neighbors call the cops on you then you must live in a suburban area. Finally, if you stand naked on your front porch and the neighbors ignore you then you probably live in an urban area. Such an interesting and funny way to explain the difference between urban, suburban, and rural.
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4) Zheng He’s Ship Compared to Christopher Columbus’ Santa Maria
Another user shared on Imgur an impressive size comparison between two ships of sailors who both lived and sailed in the same time frame. The larger ship belonged to a Chinese explorer named Zheng He which he used to command expeditionary treasure voyages. The ship next to it at a very noticeable smaller size is the ship that belonged to Christopher Columbus called the Santa Maria. Columbus used this ship as a voyager as well.
5) Ski Trail Sign in the Summer vs. in the Winter
What a difference a season can make! This comparison photo shows just how drastic a season change can be. This user on Reddit shared a photo of a ski trail sign in the summer which almost appears to stand as tall as the trees behind it. The photo beside it shows that same sign but this time in the winter with lots of fresh snow all around which at this point anyone who stands under the sign can touch the top! Either way, this trail sign allows for some pretty beautiful photos of the ski trail in the summer or the winter.
6) Two Skinny Cats and One Fat Cat Walk Through Snow
It is always so interesting to look at the various footprint tracks whether we are hiking, walking along the beach, or the snow. It can even be a fun game trying to figure out which animal walked this path before us. One user on Reddit shared a funny photo that shows their three cats’ footprints back home. According to the user, they have two skinny cats and one fat cat… can you tell who left which tracks?
7) A Maple Trees 11 Day Difference
In just 11 days one maple tree completely changes its color! Going from green to a vibrant orange the maple tree lets those who gaze upon it know that fall is coming. Such a beautiful color shift for those who take a moment to appreciate it. Soon those leaves will fall to let us know winter is coming soon. Then the cycle will repeat again and again. Thanks to the trees that remind us in a very beautiful way when seasons are about to change!
8) Falcon Compared to a B2 Stealth Bomber
Sometimes the similarities between things that seem to have no correlation can be striking. Such as the profiles of this Peregrine Falcon and a B2 Stealth Bomber. Could it be a possibility that the B-2 bomber was designed based on the Peregrine Falcon’s aerodynamic shape? We would say chances are high seeing side by side how similar they are to each other.
9) A Wife’s Face On Her Wedding Day vs. When She Met Rob Lowe
Imagine this husband’s surprise when he saw a side by side photo comparing his wife’s face on their wedding day to when she met Rob Lowe. Who wouldn’t smile as big as this wife while getting a picture with the one and only Rob Lowe! Although it may have been a tiny disappointment to this husband we are sure their whole family got a good laugh. Definitely cannot blame her.
10) Movie vs. Real Life
As one family was watching the new Lion King movie they looked over at their own cat and wanted to see how it would compare in real life. In the movie, the baby lion or Simba has the cutest look on his face as he is held up to look over the land. Then we see the real life comparison to which this families cat is not looking to happy, however, still cute. Just another reminder that life is not always as it seems in the movies.
11) Size Comparison: Maine Coon Cat vs. American Shorthair Cat
Animals come in all different shapes and sizes. One owner decided to share the size difference between the two cats in their household. The tiny American shorthair looks like it is only the size of the Maine coons back end! Makes you wonder if there’s enough room on the bed for the owner.
12) Height Difference Between Two 13-year-old Boys
Some kids get their growth spurts earlier than others. One mom decided to show the difference in height between her son and his friend both currently at the age of 13. One user, Foxxy, pointed out in their comment on the photo that they have “someone who can reach the tall stuff and someone who can crawl into tight spaces”. What a great way to look at it!
13) Size Comparison: Tornado vs. Wind Turbines
It is pretty crazy to look at this size comparison photo and understand the magnitude of this tornado. To the left you can see the large tornado as it heads to the right towards the wind turbines. Which if you have seen wind turbines in real life they are quite large and at first glance of this photo you can barely see them. We are sure happy to only be looking at a size comparison photo!
14) Dog at the Beach vs. Getting Feet Cleaned After
Dogs sure do know how to express what they are feeling through their faces. In this comparison photo we see this dogs happiness through its ears being up and a smile on its face to be walking around on the beach. Then it is side by side comparing the expression only this time the dog is now in the shower with ears back and no smile. Although only a small price to pay for a leisure stroll on the beach, this pup is delivering those “puppy eyes” showing the owners that it really does not enjoy getting it’s feet cleaned after.
15) Dogs Reaction to When Owners Come Home vs. When the Owners Leave
Another example of how expressive dogs are with their faces in order to communicate to their owners what they are feeling. Here we have a dog super happy to have the owners finally return home with its eyes glemaning, sitting proper and smiling from ear to ear. Compared to when the owners leave propped up against a couch, eyes drooping down and no smile. We can only imagine how hard it is to leave this pup at home!
16) Smoker vs. Non-Smoker
Some times it can be hard to see the effects that smoking has. It is pictures such as this one that show us just how impactful it can be to not only our bodies but our environment as well. In this picture we are shown side by side a smoker with the yellow window shades next to a non-smoker with same window shades but instead they are a clean white. Definitely makes you reevaluate what is happening internally when smoking if this is what happens externally.
17) Barcelona During the Day vs. During the Night
It can be interesting to look at the way a space or place changes as it goes from day to night. Such as this side by side comparison of Barcelona during the day compared to during the night. To the left we can see more definition of the buildings and get a glimpse of the colors, shapes and specific landscapes of Barcelona during the day. To the right we can see how the lights of the streets illuminate the buildings during the night, as well as, the tiny lights within the buildings.
18) Graphics in Video Games Then vs. Graphics Now
Graphics, video editing and all technology has only gotten better as time has gone on. As we can see in some of the then versus now photos the graphics used to be much simpler. Now we are immersed with extreme detail to everything we see in the video game to replicate real life. Now with VR, technology and the human interaction with technology it will only continue to advance and immerse more senses to replicate life as we know but with more enhancements and unlimited possibilities.
19) 25 Years After the Fall of the Berlin Wall, The Difference in Types of Light Bulbs Can Be Seen From Space
In this comparison photo it is different from the rest due to the fact that it is one photo showing the difference within itself by documenting the difference in types of light bulbs. As seen from space and documented 25 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall we can see how some of the lights are brigther and more white while the other sides ligths are more yellow or orange. From above and comparing the difference in lights we can still see where the wall was even 25 years later.
20) Dolphin Brain vs. Shark Brain
Here’s another photo to show the true immensity of something while comparing it within the same category. Here we look at the size and shape of a brain of a dolphin compared to a brain of a shark. The dolphin’s brain looking very similar to the brain of a human and the shark having a significantly smaller brain, as well as, completely different shape and even texture. Although dolphins and sharks both live in the same conditions and are animals of the sea it is interesting to note what we have in common with dolphins.
21) World’s Smallest Computer Compared To A Grain of Rice
It is times like these where we need size comparison to truly be able to comprehend the difference and true size of something. Such as this picture is documenting, the world’s smallest computer compared to a grain of rice which is quite small. Seeing this very very tiny computer and the grain of rice side by side can leave you speechless. Just think of the tools it took to make this tiny computer!
22) Fluffy Corgi vs. Regular Coat Corgi
There are a variety of breeds of dogs within our world even within the same breed with variations in overall looks, fur, noses, eyes and the list continues. Take for example, these two corgis whose difference is their fur. To the left we have a very fluffy long haired corgi and to the right we have a regular coat corgi. Still sharing close to the same height and same facial features but one fluffy and one just furry. Either way both still capture your heart!
23) Human Skeleton vs. Gorilla Skeleton
Another photo comparing how humans shared more in common with animals than we may think at first. Documented here as the human skeleton is put next to a gorilla skeleton. The size, width and height has differences but the overall look of the bone structure and placement shares similarities. It is always interesting to look upon a comparison such as this and analyze the connection with we share with animals.
24) Inside Doorknob Compared to The Outside Doorknob When Living Near the Ocean
For those who live near the ocean, they know they have to take different precautions while decorating and designing their houses. For some it is making sure to build their house on stilts in case of hurricanes and for some it is making sure they have the right doorknobs that can withstand the ocean air. Documented in this comparison one homeowner showed the true difference by taking a picture that shows the inside of their doorknob compared to the outside doorknob when living near the ocean. The doorknob that faces the outside is completely covered in salt particles that have coated the knob overtime while the inside remains completely clean.
25) Mammalian Predators Claws Compared to Eagle Claws
Another picture to prove that we can never really appreciate the immensity of something until compared to something else. In this photo, we see mammalian predator claws compared to the claws of an eagle. Claws that we may have once thought were large such as those of a cougar or jaguar are now seen as way smaller when compared to the claws of a harpy or golden eagle. Then you look down to the grizzly bear or sloth bear compared to that of the harpy eagle look small now in comparison.
26) Bee Stinger vs. Needle Looked at Microscopically
We all know the pain of a needle from getting shots during our yearly check ups at the doctors. As well as, some of us may know the pain of a bee sting from being outdoors. Now we get the opportunity to look at those two compared microscopically. At first glance a bee stinger may look so similar to a needle but as we can see they are indeed not similar at all. The stinger of the bee has sharp jagged edges while the needle is smooth, when looked at microscopically we would much rather the needle than a bee stinger!
27) Difference Between Tap Water and Sparkling Water Poured Over Top
In this comparison photo we can see the difference between tap water and sparkling water that has been poured over top. The tap water sits at the bottom of the cup and is clear all the way through. While the sparkling water sits perfectly on top of the tap water with the hundreds of bubbles floating around each other while drifting to the top. Interesting to take note of the difference we may never have thought to try to see before.
28) Norwegian Solider 75 Years Ago vs. Today
Another photo documenting the impact of time and the advancements we make. Take this side by side photo of a Norweigian Solider 75 years ago compared to a solider today. The amount of tactical and armor upgrades made today shows greatly when comparing side by side. The solider today now having a helmet, glasses, bullet proof vest that has pockets to fit more supplies, as well as, a pack strapped to the side to carry more things and even a bigger gun.
29) Height of Godzilla Compared to Japan’s Highest Bridge Height
In this comparison we have the height of Godzilla compared to Japan’s highest bridge height. As you can see in the photo Godzilla could walk right underneath the bridge. Which that alone proves the enormity and height of this bridge. Even showing the size comparison of one of the pyramids with just the tip reaching the bottom of the bridge.
30) Before and After Comparison: Street in Surf City NC Before and After Hurricane Florence
In times when a hurricane hits an area the before and after pictures truly show all the destruction and damage that was made. Such as this before and after comparison picture taken from a street in Surf City, NC before and after Hurricane Florence. Before you can see the tall sand mounds in between the houses with grass growing all around. Then after all the remains are essentially the houses while the sand mounds, the road and even the driveways have all disappeared.
31) Husband who is 6’3″ and Wife who is 5’2″ Compare Jeans
One husband and wife decided to compare the size and length of their jeans one night and we are happy they decided to share it. The husband stands at 6’3″ while the wife is 5’2″ and when the jeans are placed next to each other they almost seem like an adult comparing to a child’s pants. Definitely makes it easier to sort their laundry!
32) Comparison of a Representation Of What You Do See When Looking the Stars Compared to What Comes Out of the Camera
It can be confusing sometimes when we see a photo on our phones of a galaxy with all these beautiful colors and extreeme detail but when we see it with our own eyes it is nothing like what we’ve seen in pictures. This next photo was captured in Western Australia at the Pinnacles Desert and the photographer wanted to compare and contrast what the naked eye sees to what comes out of the camera when features are enhanced. On the left you can see the photo that was captured by a camera with no post processing and essentially what the naked eye would see. To the right is that same photo but with the camera’s settings changed to capture more light and possibly some editing to enhance the brightness, contrast and even colors.
33) Earth Compared To Its Water and Air
When looking at this next photo we can truly see the size of Earth compared to the water and air that surrounds us. Almost crazy to comprehend just how small the water and air looks in this visual approximation because of how big the water looks to us on Earth. However, when condensed to truly represent the size comparison this is the result. Truly a complex world we live and breath in!
34) Stairs Built in 1829 vs. Stairs Built in 2005
Not only have we updated and upgraded technology, clothes and many other things in daily life but also the way we build and what we use to build. Take this photo for example of stairs built in 1829 compared to stairs built in 2005. Although, the test of time speaks volumes for the stairs built in 1829 holding up until this picture was taken. We wonder how the stairs built in 2005 will hold up to the test of time compared to those from 1829. Only time will tell!
35) California Views Normally vs. California Views When There Are Fires
One user on reddit in California decided to document the difference of views from their California home. But showing the difference comparing their views of California normally to California when there are fires. The views normally allow you to be able to see the mountains, water and all that exists in the distance. While when there are fires the smokes covers everything with an orange smog.
36) Phone From 1998 Compared to Phone From 2018
Here we have another comparison of technology. Showing this users mother’s Motorola phone from 1998 compared to their iPhone in 2018. Although the sizes are similar the capabilities of the phone have changed and upgraded immensely. In 1998, only being able to use the phone to make calls compared to 2018 being able use our devices for close to anything we can think of.
37) ‘Chernobyl’ Actors vs. The Real Life People They Played
Something so truly incredible that movies and actors provide is the ability to essentially go back in time and recreate events of our history. As seen here, comparing and contrasting the actors of ‘Chernobyl’ compared to the real life people they played. With hours of make up, editing and acting they provide a glimpse into our past. One of the more magical things that movies and actors provide.
38) Comparison of Right Handed vs. Left Handed People At A High School
We can truly see the difference in how many people are right handed compared to those who are left handed when looking at this comparison photo. At this highschool, a user decided to document the interesting difference in use of handles and share it on reddit. As we can see the thumb area on the right handle shows a more significant use from people touching it. Compared to the left whose thumb handle circle looks to have only just begun to erode.
39) $10 Lightsaber vs. $400 Lightsaber
Sometimes the quality truly does come at a cost. As seen here comparing the quality of a $1o lightsaber to a $400 lightsaber. We can see the more expensive lightsaber is made of a much more durable material and even has an LED light. While the less expensive lightsaber looks to be made up of plastic with a retractable saber that may break quickly.
40) Bottom of Shoe That Is On The Longboard vs. The Shoe That Does the Pushing
Sometimes it’s hard to figure out how much damage we are doing to our shoes. Or even through what activity is doing the most destruction to our shoes. But for this skater it was clear to see. When the skater compared the bottom of the shoe that is on the longboard versus the shoe that does the pushing it is clear to see what is doing the most damage.
41) 1985 Ken Doll vs. 2018 Ken Doll
Just as much as technology advances so do toys. Such as this 1985 Ken doll compared to a 2018 Ken doll. Looking at the two Ken doll’s side by side we can see how much detail has been added specifically when looking at 2018 Ken’s eyes and hair. Even smoothing out Ken’s skin and moving the head and neck attachment to replicate a real person.
42) Tan Hand Compared to Foot
Depending on what you allow to see the sun there can be an intense difference in color when they compared side by side. Especially if we are spending our days laying out at the beach or doing work outside in the hot sun tan lines can happen fast. Just as this person shared how tan their hand was compared to their pale white foot. It almost seems like the hand belongs to a different person!
43) 2017 Daily Mood Tracker Compared to 2018 Daily Mood Tracker
Although it may not seem like it while we are experiencing our day to day routines and life one year can go by fairly quick. Then once it is gone we don’t really take into account all the little details that happened such as our moods on a day to day basis. One user decided to share their 2017 daily mood tracker compared to their 2018 to note the difference. Which is interesting to see just how much their mood inclined in the year 2018!
44) Size Comparison: Moon vs. The USA
When we look at the moon from the Earth we can easily stick our thumbs out and block it from our view. However, here’s another picture to show the true size of the moon compared to the size of the USA. When compared to the size of the USA we can begin to comprehend the immensity of the moon that we look at in the sky. Next time we go to look at the moon we can now be looking at it with a new understanding of it’s size.
45) 4 Weeks Old with Favorite Toy vs. Full Grown with Favorite Toy
Just like our own furry friends sometimes we like to take our favorite toys that we were given as a baby into our adult life. In this picture comparison we see the toy dragon which is bigger than the pup given to it at only 4 weeks old. Compared to the picture of the dog now full grown still laying with the favorite toy but this time the dog is bigger than the toy. However, the feelings and attachement to the toy remain the same!
46) Then vs. Now: Cleaning The Mithi River For One Year
What a difference just one year can make when we use our time wisely. In this photo we see the impact of what the youth in Mumbai, India have been doing by cleaning the Mithi River. In the top picture, we cannot even see the ground beneath the trash. Then in the bottom photo just one year later we can see the ground that’s been below ready to tended to with care.
47) One Month Old Baby Next To His 97-Year-Old Korean Great Grandmother
In this absolutely heartwarming photo we see a one month old baby next to his 97-year-old korean great grandmother. Who at 97 has lived through so much in her time and now get’s to look upon her great grandson at the start of his life. Looking closer at the photo you can see the joy in the great grandmother’s face as she looks into the baby’s eyes who is only just beginning. The baby just looks back at her with wonder. Truly a special moment captured for those who see to appreciate.
48) 1990 vs. 2018
Documented in this comparison photo shows us just how truly far we’ve come with technology. In 1990, we had to carry around all these devices if we wanted that specific feature. If you wanted the music player, the watch, the wallet, the phone, the laptop, camera, video recorder you had to carry each of those individual devices on you. Compared to 2018 where we have access to each of those features on one device and so much more.
49) Size Comparison: Blue Whale vs. A Diver
It is easy to underestimate the true size of the animals that live under the sea when some times we only get to see pictures or videos of them. However, in this photo we have a diver next to it to show the true immensity of this blue whale. The diver showing how truly small humans are in comparison to these sea creatures. We can only imagine what it must have felt like to be that diver!
50) Genetic Portraits: Grandmother & Granddaughter
A photographer named Ulric Collete has started a collection that is a photographic study on the genetic similarites between members of the same family. The one we see is a grandmother and granddaughter’s photographys seemlessly stitched together. We can see how strong the genes are in this family seeing how the facial features line up perfectly. Almost looks like they are the same person!
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