Perspective Photography

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What is Perspective Photography?  

Forced perspective is an optical illusion that makes things look bigger or smaller than they actually are. It makes objects of vastly different sizes, that are at significantly different distances, appear to be of proportionate sizes and at the same focal length. Forced perspective uses visual tricks to give a warped perception of reality. It is commonly used in photographs, television, movies and architecture.  

Function  

A small object very close to a camera appears large while a big object far away appears small. Our brains usually understand that something is close or far based on relative perspective. In a picture of a skyline, we see everything small but know that buildings are really large. Our brains, therefore, see everything as big from a distance. However, our brains can be tricked by bringing a smaller object closer to the point of view and giving the illusion that it is larger. This is forced perspective. 

Effects  

In photography, forced perspective can be achieved by positioning objects of different sizes and distances so that they appear to be right next to each other. An example would be placing a toy car close to the camera with a car dealership in the background. If placed correctly, the toy will appear to be a full-sized car. It is also a common photographic effect to make a person appear to be touching something large that is far away. For example, holding the moon in his hand or touching the top of a tall building.