Pincushion Distortion Calculator
Calculate and understand pincushion distortion in telephoto lenses. Pincushion distortion causes straight lines to bow inward toward the image center.
Distortion Parameters
Positive values = pincushion, Negative = barrel
For reference only
Understanding Pincushion Distortion
Pincushion distortion makes images appear to be squeezed inward at the edges. It's common in telephoto lenses and zoom lenses at the long end.
Maximum Distortion
1.50%
Slight Pincushion Distortion
CCorrection Needed
-1.50%
DImage Diagonal
7211px
Distortion by Radius
25% from center0.85px (0.09%)
50% from center6.76px (0.37%)
75% from center22.82px (0.84%)
100% from center54.08px (1.50%)
Typical Distortion by Focal Length
70mm+0.3%
100mm+0.5%
135mm+0.8%
200mm+1.2%
300mm+1.8%
400mm+2.2%
600mm+2.8%
When It's Noticeable
- Architectural photography with straight lines
- Product photography requiring precise shapes
- Sports photography near frame edges
- Usually less visible than barrel distortion