A tilt-shift lens is a specialized camera lens that allows photographers to control perspective and depth of field. By tilting the lens, users can change the plane of focus, which helps to keep both the foreground and background sharp. This feature is particularly useful in architectural photography, where straight lines can be maintained without distortion. Additionally, shifting the lens enables photographers to adjust the composition without moving the camera. This is beneficial for capturing wider scenes or correcting perspective in images of tall buildings. Tilt-shift lenses are often used in landscape photography and can create a miniature effect, making real-life scenes appear like small models.