Distortion using the camera Lens distortion


Distortion using the camera Lens distortion

Perspective compression - Shooting from far away compresses perspective (subject matter at different distances to the camera appear closer together) and using a long focal length allows you to see that compression more easily. If you cannot afford a very long focal length lens (say 400 mm or more) you can achieve the same effect by using a 200 mm lens with a teleconverter: a device that sits between the lens and camera and multiplies the focal length being used. Unfortunately it also multiplies the aperture, so a 200 mm f/4 lens with a 2x converter becomes a 400 mm f/8 lens. You will need a tripod or image stabilization to keep the picture steady.

Steep perspective - Close shooting distances exaggerate relative distance and scale. To get the most out of this technique, use a short focal length lens. Using a lens of wider than 28 mm is recommended. The shorter the focal length, the closer in you can get and still include all the subjects. Subjects close to the lens looks larger in proportion to their surroundings. Subject matter in the distance looks much further away.

The overall effect is one of ‘steep perspective’. Zooming - For this technique you need to use a lens that can alter its focal length, i.e. a zoom lens. The camera can be mounted on a tripod and a slow shutter speed selected, e.g. 1/15, 1/8 or 1/4 second. The effect is achieved by altering the focal length during the exposure. The subject does not need to move for the effect to work (see ‘Time’).

Depth of field - Shallow depth of field is achieved by using one or more of the following techniques: a) long focal length lens, b) wide aperture, c) moving closer.

Wide depth of field is achieved by using a combination of one or more of the following techniques: a) short focal length lens, b) small aperture, c) moving further from subject.

Refraction and reflection

Refraction - This is the action of light being bent or deflected as it passes through different media such as glass and water. Look at the swimmer photographed by André Kertész. Try photographing through patterned or textured glass, special filters, clear filters with Vaseline smeared on them, water, etc. in front of the lens.

Reflection - When light is reflected off smooth surfaces which are curved we get a view of the image distorted. Look at the nudes produced by André Kertész.

The mixing of reflections with the view through plain glass can also produce interesting effects, as can mirror images introduced into the picture. Possible sources for such images include chrome items, reflective foil, shiny black cars, etc.

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