Ultravidvinkel

Ultravidvinkel is a term used in photography to describe an ultra-wide-angle lens, designed to capture an exceptionally broad field of view. On full-frame cameras, ultravidvinkel lenses typically have focal lengths from about 14 to 24 mm; on smaller sensors, the same focal lengths provide an even wider equivalent angle of view due to cropping. Rectilinear ultrawide lenses commonly offer diagonal fields of view around 100–120 degrees, while fisheye designs can approach 180 degrees.

Two main designs exist: rectilinear ultrawide and fisheye. Rectilinear models preserve straight lines, but exhibit noticeable barrel distortion toward the edges. Fisheye models intentionally bend lines, producing curved geometry and a distinctive, hemispherical look. Both types exaggerate perspective, making foreground objects appear much larger than distant ones.

Common applications include landscape photography, architecture and interior shots, and astrophotography, where the wide field helps capture expansive skies. Ultravidvinkler provide a deep depth of field at modest apertures, enabling sharp images from near to far. They are also popular for panorama work, where multiple exposures are stitched to expand coverage.

Issues to consider include distortion, vignetting, and edge softness at wide apertures, as well as working distance and parallax in close-up shots. The choice between rectilinear and fisheye affects the scene’s look and the handling of perspective.

Although the term is common in Norwegian and other Nordic languages, ultravidvinkel is widely used internationally to describe ultra-wide lenses. Advances in lens design and digital correction have made ultrawide photography more accessible across camera formats.