Pincushiontorzulás

Pincushiontorzulás, commonly known as pincushion distortion, is an optical phenomenon that occurs in photographic lenses and imaging systems. This type of distortion causes straight lines in the image to appear as if they are bulging outward, resembling the shape of a pincushion. The effect is most noticeable along the edges of the image, where lines curve inward toward the center.

The distortion arises due to the lens’s inability to accurately project light rays onto the imaging plane, particularly at wider angles. Unlike barrel distortion, which pushes lines outward, pincushion distortion compresses them inward. This effect is often more pronounced in wide-angle lenses and fisheye lenses, though it can also occur in other types of optics depending on their design.

Pincushion distortion can be corrected in post-processing using software tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, or specialized lens correction plugins. Some cameras and imaging software also offer built-in distortion correction options. In professional photography and videography, lens manufacturers often provide distortion profiles to help users minimize or eliminate this effect.

While pincushion distortion can be aesthetically undesirable in many contexts, it can also be intentionally used for creative purposes, such as in artistic photography or architectural visualizations, to achieve a unique visual style. The severity of the distortion depends on factors like lens focal length, aperture, and the specific design of the optical elements. Understanding and managing pincushion distortion is essential for achieving accurate and visually pleasing images in photography and digital imaging.