What is the purpose of 'tilt-shift' photography?

The purpose of 'tilt-shift' photography primarily revolves around its ability to create a miniature effect or to adjust perspective in an image. This technique is achieved through the use of a special type of lens that allows the photographer to tilt and shift the plane of focus away from the traditional horizontal alignment. When used correctly, this can make real-life scenes appear like miniature models, a phenomenon often referred to as "diorama effect."

Additionally, tilt-shift lenses can be employed to correct perspective distortion, notably in architectural photography. When photographing tall buildings from lower angles, the edges can converge in a way that distorts the perceived proportions. The tilt capability allows for adjustments to be made, maintaining vertical lines and achieving a more natural appearance. This flexibility makes tilt-shift photography a unique tool for artistic and practical applications alike.

In contrast, creating a blurred background is typically associated with depth of field techniques rather than tilt-shift. While lens distortion correction can be an application of tilt-shift photography, it is not its primary purpose. Enhancing color saturation is unrelated to the tilt-shift technique as it deals primarily with focus and perspective rather than color manipulation. Therefore, the main focus of tilt-shift photography is indeed to create that striking miniature effect