Why ISO 12233 Slanted-Edge MTF Requires a Low-Contrast Target (4:1 vs 10:1 vs High Contrast)

The slanted-edge method only gives a true MTF when the camera responds linearly. A high-contrast black-to-white edge clips and triggers sharpening, inflating the result. This article explains why ISO 12233’s low-contrast edge — about 4:1 — keeps the edge in the linear range, and compares 4:1, 10:1, and high-contrast targets.