Should I correct lines for camera distortion?

[mnelson]

Is it expected that any distortion from lenses be removed from a photo with lines in it? For example buildings, close

up horizontal items. I'll upload an example. I just wonder if that is part of being a good photographer. M<div></div>

[jpo3136b]

This is mostly an "editorial" question; that is, it only needs to be corrected if you feel you need to correct it. That said,

many professional quality architectural photographs are made with tilt-shift lens assemblies or view cameras for just this

reason. For the most part, I wouldn't bother with it for photos for personal use. J.

[lex_jenkins]

That's fairly typical barrel distortion, probably from using a wide angle lens or wide angle setting on a zoom. It's usually more noticeable in closeups unless the lens has been designed to correct for this particular problem.

 

In some cases it's considered a flaw. In other cases, a bit of distortion can help emphasize or exaggerate the perception of being very close.

 

If you prefer to minimize this type of distortion, use a longer focal length or a lens that's corrected for minimum distortion with closeups. Some P&S type digital cameras with non-interchangeable zooms have a special macro focusing mode to enable closeups with the zoom set to a longer focal length.

[mnelson]

Thank you both very much for your answers. You are helping me a great deal. M