In recent years, studies of surfaces at more realistic conditions has advanced significantly, leading to an increased understanding of surface dynamics under reaction conditions. The development has mainly been due to the development of new experimental techniques or new experimental approaches. Techniques such as High Pressure Scanning Tunneling/Force Microscopy, Ambient Pressure x-ray Photo emission Spectroscopy, Surface x-ray Diffraction, Polarization-Modulation InfraRed Reflection Absorption Spectroscopy and Planar Laser Induced Fluorescence at semi-realistic conditions has been used to study planar model catalysts or industrial materials under operating conditions. 2D-Surface Optical Reflectance has recently received attention as a useful experimental tool used in gaseous and liquid harsh conditions by providing complementary experimental information on planar model samples as well as being a powerful experimental tool on its own. The simplicity of the approach and the cost of the equipment makes it an attractive alternative and useful tool for surface science studies under reaction conditions. In this topical review, we review some recent studies that have been promoted by the technical development in optical components, image acquisition and computational image analysis.