Using wide angle lenses and distortion effects

[Duncan.F]

Hi,
A little general advice please. I have been on the hunt for a suitable subject for the 'structures' competition. I took some shots with a 10-20 which I was nearly happy with but I am not sure how much distortion of image is acceptable. When I mean distortion I am talking about the leaning in effect you get when photographing tall buildings or narrow streets....

I notice, looking at others shots that tall buildings are often taken at an angle upwards, is there a reason for this?

Cheers,

Dunc
Thanks,

Duncan

 

[Wookie]

drama

 

[Jimmy_Lemon]

I notice, looking at others shots that tall buildings are often taken at an angle upwards, is there a reason for this?

I think for dramatic effect as Wookie says, also it aint alwasy easy to get level or above a tall building

As for the distortion I think it is all down to taste, I personally never worry about it, as I like it! but I know other people try and straighten evertyhing out so it all looks level, that sort of ruins with wide angle effect for me, so I tend to leave as it. I make sure the centre is straight then let the edges do their own thing

For example I could straighten the windows at the edge of this:

but I like them as is, granted they are not overly extreme (in my eyes anyway).