Gamma correction is a technique used in image processing to adjust the brightness and contrast of images. It helps to correct the way images are displayed on screens, ensuring that they appear more natural to the human eye. This is important because different devices, like monitors and televisions, may interpret brightness levels differently. The process involves applying a mathematical formula to the pixel values of an image. By raising the pixel values to a power (the gamma value), the overall brightness can be increased or decreased. This adjustment enhances details in both dark and bright areas, improving the overall visual quality of the image.