Category: Photography

What is a Parallax Error? It is the difference between the image seen by the viewing system of a camera and that of images recorded by it. Parallax error is a problem with any camera systems that have the viewfinder as a separate optical system from the actual photo-taking lens.

In a TLR(Twin Lens) camera, the viewfinder and lenses are separated. In an Single Lens Reflex(SLR) camera, when you look through the viewfinder you’re actually looking through the same lens which takes the photo. So there is no problem with an SLR.

The followings are some tips to correct the parallax error.

1. If you can, get a camera that has through-the-lens or TTL mechanism.

With through-the-lens type cameras, the user sees a scene through the same lens that will be capturing the image. Because of this, the scene captured will be as seen. Usually TTL cameras are significantly more expensive and complex to use than a compact or point and shoot type camera.

2. Make use of the the correction indicator markings.

On many cameras, there are indicator markings that will be seem when using the viewfinder. These indicator markings are an estimation of the borders of a potential shot. Use them to guage the eventual scene that will be captured. Usually, the user manual will have a descriptions of their usage.

3. Use the LCD screen to compose the shot.

This is not a perfect method, but it helps somewhat. The disadvantages are:

• On some camera, the LCD screen does not display the full image to be captured.
• The energy consumption will be fast because LCD screen are energy-hungry.

Well, these are some tips for correcting the parallax error when using a digital camera. I hope that it has been helpful. Thank you for reading.