Types & Forms of Perspective

Perspective is not a single method or system. It is a broad field containing many different categories, types and forms of perspective across vision, art, geometry, optics, photography, imaging and digital media.

Linear perspective is only one part of this much larger subject. Different forms of perspective arise from different geometrical structures, viewing conditions, methods of image formation and projection, representational conventions, technologies and visual effects.

Use the sections below to explore the main categories and important forms of perspective studied by the Perspective Research Centre.

Artificial Perspective

Artificial Perspective is a broad grouping for perspective produced, modified, measured, projected, simulated or represented through deliberately designed methods, systems, instruments or spatial arrangements. It includes Mathematical, Graphical, Instrument, Simulated and New Media Perspective, and may combine with natural, optical or visual processes within a larger perspective chain.

Explore Artificial Perspective →

Primary Categories

Explore the principal categories through which perspective can be studied and classified.

Natural Perspective →
Perspective arising through natural viewing and the appearance of spatial reality.

Mathematical Perspective →
Perspective based on mathematical, geometrical and projective principles.

Graphical Perspective →
Perspective constructed or represented through drawing and other graphical methods.

Instrument Perspective →
Perspective produced or mediated through cameras, lenses and other imaging instruments.

Simulated Perspective →
Perspective produced through artificial or simulated representations of spatial appearance.

New Media Perspective →
Perspective associated with digital imaging, computer graphics, virtual environments and emerging visual technologies.

Forms & Subcategories

Perspective also includes many individual forms, methods and systems.

Explore subjects including:

Linear Perspective · Curvilinear Perspective · Spherical Perspective · Anamorphic Perspective · Forced Perspective · Colour Perspective

These represent only a small selection of the many forms of perspective documented by the Perspective Research Centre.

In-Depth Studies

Explore detailed studies of important perspective subjects:

Visual Perspective
Perspective associated with human vision and visual appearance.

Optical Perspective
Perspective resulting from optical processes and the behaviour of light.

Camera Perspective
The perspective characteristics of photographic and camera-based imaging.

Atmospheric Perspective
Changes in visibility, colour, contrast and appearance associated with distance and atmosphere.

Reverse Perspective
Perspective systems in which represented spatial relationships differ from conventional convergent linear perspective.

Parallel Perspective
Perspective and projection systems involving parallel rather than converging projected directions.

Axonometric Perspective
Methods of representing three-dimensional form through axonometric projection.

Explore the Complete Subject A–Z

For a much wider overview, visit the Perspective Topics A–Z index to explore the full range of subjects covered by the Perspective Research Centre.

Explore Perspective Topics A–Z Master Index → (4.5 MB PDF)