Verzerrungsfehler

Verzerrungsfehler, also known as distortion, refers to the deviation of an image from its original shape or proportion. In optics, this occurs when a lens fails to produce a perfect, rectilinear projection of the scene. Different types of distortion exist, each affecting the image in a distinct way. Pincushion distortion causes straight lines to bend inwards towards the center, making the image appear pinched. Barrel distortion, conversely, makes straight lines bulge outwards from the center, giving the image a rounded, barrel-like appearance.

These distortions are often more pronounced in wide-angle lenses due to the nature of their design. While some distortion is inherent in lens design, manufacturers strive to minimize it. In some cases, distortion can be a desirable effect, used for artistic purposes. However, for applications requiring geometric accuracy, such as architectural photography or scientific imaging, minimizing or correcting distortion is crucial. Photographers and image processing software can often correct for these errors, either through lens profiles or manual adjustments, restoring the perceived straightness of lines within the image. The amount and type of distortion are typically measured and specified by lens manufacturers.