an imaging apparatus includes an image acquisition section which converts a physical image to a digital image representation using non - ideal optics such as an array lens . this image acquisition results in a digital image representation containing errors or artifacts . a memory in data communication with a processor stores a plurality of compensation parameters selected for use in correcting errors induced by the lens array . the compensation parameters are determined by performing a lens characterization which includes measuring lens performance at a plurality of locations along the lens . after the processor adjusts the image representation , the post - compensated digital image representation may be further processed , stored , transferred , and the like . according to another embodiment of the invention , a non - ideal array lens induces errors in an image representation during a printing or output operation . similarly , an image processor applies pre - compensation parameters to the desired or ideal image representation in electronic form to compensate for errors which are known to be induced by the lens during the output operation . accordingly , when the pre - compensated image representation is output using the non - ideal lens , the physical image output appears to have been printed with an ideal lens .