Image distortion refers to the alteration of an image's original shape or appearance, often caused by various factors such as lens imperfections, perspective changes, or digital processing. This can result in visual anomalies, such as bending lines or warped shapes, which can affect the overall quality and clarity of the image. Common types of image distortion include barrel distortion, where images appear bulged at the center, and pincushion distortion, where images are pinched at the center. Understanding these distortions is essential for photographers and graphic designers to ensure accurate representation in their work.