A real image occurs where rays converge, whereas a virtual image occurs where rays only appear to converge. Thus, real image can be captured in a screen whereas virtual image cannot be captured in a screen.

Real images can be produced by concave mirrors and converging lenses.

In the case of convex lenses, the image is formed on the other side of the lens and not on the object side. While in the case of concave mirrors, the image is formed on the same side as that of the object due to the nature of the mirror.