Perspective Distortion Calculator
Calculate how perspective distortion affects subjects at close distances. Essential for portrait photographers to avoid unflattering distortion.
Setup Parameters
Distance from camera to subject center
Depth of subject (e.g., nose to ear = ~0.1m)
Common Feature Depths
- Face (nose to ear): ~10cm (0.1m)
- Head (front to back): ~20cm (0.2m)
- Upper body: ~25cm (0.25m)
Perspective Distortion
23.5%
Significant
FFront Magnification
5.63%
BBack Magnification
4.56%
VField of View
73.7 deg
RFlattering Distance
0.24 m
Distortion at Different Focal Lengths
Distance adjusted to maintain same subject size:
14mm @ 0.29m43.9%
24mm @ 0.50m23.5%
35mm @ 0.73m15.5%
50mm @ 1.04m10.6%
85mm @ 1.77m6.1%
135mm @ 2.81m3.8%
200mm @ 4.17m2.6%
Portrait Tips
- Use 85mm+ for headshots to minimize distortion
- Keep subject distance greater than 0.24m
- Wide angles at close range enlarge noses and foreheads
- Distortion is caused by distance, not focal length
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Editorial Note
MyCalcBuddy Editorial Team
This page is maintained as an educational calculator reference.
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Formula Source: Standard Mathematical References
by Various
🔄Last reviewed: May 2026
✓Formula checks are based on standard references and internal QA review.