lensdistortion

Lens distortion is a common optical aberration that results from the design and manufacturing processes of camera lenses. It causes straight lines in an image to appear curved or warped, affecting the accuracy of the representation. Lens distortion can be classified into two main types: barrel distortion and pincushion distortion. Barrel distortion causes images to bulge outwards, making straight lines appear convex, resembling the shape of a barrel. Pincushion distortion, on the other hand, causes images to pinch inward, making straight lines appear concave.

This phenomenon occurs due to the curvature of lens elements, especially in wide-angle and low-quality lenses. It is more pronounced toward the edges of an image plane and diminishes toward the center. Factors influencing lens distortion include focal length, lens construction, and aperture settings. Certain lens designs, such as aspherical lenses, are engineered to minimize distortion.

Lens distortion can affect various fields, including photography, videography, and scientific imaging, where spatial accuracy is critical. While it can be corrected through software processing—in post-production or real-time—doing so may impact image quality or detail.

Understanding lens distortion is important for professionals seeking precise image reproductions and is a consideration in the design of optical systems. Correcting this distortion involves optical design improvements or digital correction techniques, allowing for more accurate and visually pleasing images. Despite being an optical imperfection, some artists intentionally utilize distortion for creative effects.