“Impression” by Jason Yu is a very surreal effect wherein the magician causes the contents of a photo, taken on a spectator’s phone, to change, AFTER the picture is taken. Specifically, using the spectator’s phone, the magician takes a picture of a blank card, signed by the spectator, while he or she holds it. The photo of the blank card is then shown to the audience. A card is selected and the magician causes the face of the selection to turn blank. When the spectator looks at the photo on their phone again, the picture displays them holding not a blank card, but their selected card, AND it still has their signature on it. Not only does this leave the spectator with a permanent reminder of the magic moment, but it’s also in a form easily shared on social media, a benefit Mr. Yu designed into the effect.

The above description accurately depicts how the spectator will remember the effect. It also describes the routine as it appears in the trailer. However, it isn’t a complete description of what happens in actual performance. While technically this does mean the trailer is a bit misleading, it doesn’t actually suggest an effect that never happens (unlike many magic product trailers I’ve seen.) What’s not included is essentially a non-moment, which if handled correctly, occurs as such for the audience.

However, it is important to note that the method at play doesn’t actually allow the performer to change a photo on a borrowed phone. Still, like all magic, when performed well it is what the spectator will remember. And the following key elements are true: the phone is borrowed, the spectator does see a picture of themselves holding a blank card, signed by them, and at the end they are left with a phone that has a picture of them holding their selection with their actual signature on it.

The method is effective, but does have some drawbacks and limitations. While the basic principle at work is clever, the handling is not particularly subtle or sophisticated. While basic sleight of hand is used, more importantly, one will need some acting ability and good audience management to successfully perform the effect. It is also very angle sensitive, with the biggest qualification being that no one can look from the performer’s point of view as the photo is being taken. However, this isn’t as difficult to manage as one might think, as not only is the audience focused on being in the photo being taken, leaving their attention naturally on being photographed, but they are holding the card being photographed, allaying any suspicions that may arise. Still, this is not going to work in most strolling environments where there are many people milling around.

The DVD comes with two different gimmicks, a blank faced card, and eight double blank cards. A double blank card is used in each performance, so refills will be required, but double blank decks are available through most magic dealers, so it’s a simple thing to obtain. One other additional item is needed, but it can be obtained at any office supply store. On the DVD Mr. Yu explains the method, how to assemble the gimmick, the basic handling, as well as tips and suggestions for how to manage the audience during the performance.

“Impression” is a powerful, unusual and memorable effect that leaves the spectator with an impossible souvenir they can share electronically. It can’t be performed in all circumstances, but is more practical than one might think, and will leave an indelible impression on the audience. If you like the effect and find yourself in situations where it’s viable to perform this routine, this is well worth your investment. (And if you like this effect, you should also check out Asi Wind’s “Double Exposure,” which inspired “Impression.”)