Distortion

Term from Photography Editing industry explained for recruiters

Distortion refers to unwanted changes in how an image appears, and the skill of fixing or creatively using these changes. In photography and image editing, professionals work with two main types: lens distortion (from camera equipment) and intentional creative distortion (for artistic effect). Photo editors and retouchers often mention this skill because it involves both correcting unwanted warping in professional photos and creating artistic effects for advertising or creative projects. This is a common task in photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom.

Examples in Resumes

Corrected Distortion issues in architectural photography projects using advanced editing techniques

Created artistic Distortion effects for advertising campaigns using Photoshop

Specialized in lens Distortion correction for professional product photography

Typical job title: "Photo Editors"

Also try searching for:

Photo Retoucher Digital Image Editor Photography Post-Production Specialist Visual Effects Artist Digital Retoucher Commercial Photo Editor

Where to Find Photo Editors

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a complex architectural photo with severe perspective distortion?

Expected Answer: A senior editor should explain their workflow for correcting building perspective, including assessment of vertical and horizontal lines, use of specialized tools, and maintaining image quality throughout the process.

Q: Describe a challenging creative distortion project you've handled and how you approached it.

Expected Answer: Should discuss project planning, client communication, technique selection, and quality control measures, showing leadership in creative decision-making.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What methods do you use to correct lens distortion in product photography?

Expected Answer: Should explain common correction techniques, understanding of different lens profiles, and ability to maintain product proportions accurately.

Q: How do you ensure consistency when batch-processing multiple images with distortion issues?

Expected Answer: Should describe workflow organization, use of presets or actions, and quality control processes for handling multiple similar images.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between barrel and pincushion distortion?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic types of lens distortion in simple terms and demonstrate knowledge of basic correction tools.

Q: What tools in Photoshop do you use to correct basic distortion?

Expected Answer: Should know about basic lens correction filters and transformation tools, showing fundamental understanding of distortion correction.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic lens distortion correction
  • Understanding of common editing software
  • Simple perspective corrections
  • Basic photo manipulation techniques

Mid (2-4 years)

  • Advanced perspective correction
  • Batch processing efficiency
  • Creative distortion effects
  • Multiple software proficiency

Senior (4+ years)

  • Complex architectural corrections
  • Creative direction capabilities
  • Training and team leadership
  • Advanced creative distortion techniques

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic photo editing software
  • Unable to identify common types of distortion
  • Lack of attention to detail in sample work
  • No understanding of image quality preservation