Which lens type is most likely to produce images with geometric distortion?

The wide-angle lens is most likely to produce images with geometric distortion due to its design, which allows for a wider field of view. These lenses have a shorter focal length, which can exaggerate perspective and lead to noticeable distortion, especially at the edges of the image. The pronounced curvature of lines, particularly in architectural photography or when photographing subjects close to the lens, can result in objects appearing distorted or stretched. This characteristic makes wide-angle lenses popular for specific photography styles, such as landscapes or interiors, but it also requires careful composition to minimize distortion.

In contrast, telephoto lenses compress the perspective and are less prone to geometric distortion, capturing distant subjects with more natural proportions. Fixed lenses generally offer less distortion than wide-angle lenses, as they maintain a consistent focal length and aperture. Varifocal lenses, which adjust focal lengths and can range from wide-angle to telephoto, may also introduce distortion, but their effect tends to be more variable depending on the specific focal length in use at any given moment.