Distortion in photography refers to any alteration in the shape or proportions of an image compared to the actual subject. It occurs when straight lines appear curved, objects appear stretched or compressed, or the perspective is exaggerated.
Common types of distortion include barrel distortion, where lines bow outward, and pincushion distortion, where lines curve inward. Distortion can result from lens design, focal length, or camera perspective. While often considered undesirable, photographers sometimes use distortion creatively to produce dramatic effects or emphasize certain aspects of a scene. Understanding distortion is essential for achieving accurate representation or artistic intent in images.