Perspective Distortion in Photography.
One of the subjects that’s covered on the ‘IMPROVE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY’ course is the mind bending topic of perspective distortion. Are you of the opinion that an un-manipulated photograph gives an accurate representation of the ‘subject’. You may want to think again.
Wide Angle Distortion (extension distortion):
Wide angle distortion can be seen in images shot from close up. Using a wide angle lens (with an angle of view wider than a normal lens). Objects close to the lens appear abnormally large and distant objects appear abnormally small and hence more distant – the distances are exaggerated and extended.
Long lens distortion (compression / telephoto distortion):
Long lens distortion can be seen in images shot from a distance using a long focus lens. Closer objects appear abnormally small and more distant objects appear abnormally large and hence closer – the distances are compressed.
So, how can you use perspective distortion to your advantage.
Here’s a scenario, you want to photograph a lakeland scene, for example, a lake surrounded by mountains. What is the story you want to tell with your photograph. By using perspective distortion you can create the scene you want to present. In the examples below we have two pictures of the same jetty at Storrs Hall on the side of Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District.
“A big lake surrounded by small mountains”
The first image has been taken at a wide angle of 28mm and as a result has wide angle distortion. The wooden posts closest to the lens appear abnormally large and the mountains in the distance appear abnormally small and hence more distant. Note the appearance of the small sailing yacht at the end of the long jetty – the distances are exaggerated and extended.
“A small lake surrounded by big mountains”
The second image has been taken at a zoom of 100mm and as a result has long lens distortion. The wooden posts closest to the lens appear abnormally small and the mountains in the distance appear abnormally large and hence closer. Note the appearance of the large sailing yacht at the end of the short jetty – the distances are compressed.
For many years Graeme Cameron Photography has successfully been running digital SLR photography courses in West Cumbria. Understanding the basic’s of digital SLR photography is fundamental. Whether you have photographic interest specifically in beautiful landscapes, stunning portraits, incredible wildlife, gritty urban life, macro or a mixture of many styles we want to help you develop and improve your digital SLR photographic skills.
If you like the idea of coming along and want further information please give us a call or drop us an e-mail.
Best wishes
Graeme