What is the cure for most lens aberrations?

Stopping down 2 to 3 f/stops from the widest aperture is indeed an effective way to mitigate most lens aberrations. When a lens is used at its widest aperture, various optical issues such as chromatic aberration, spherical aberration, and distortion can become more pronounced, leading to a loss of sharpness and clarity in the final image.

By reducing the aperture size (stopping down), the light rays passing through the lens are better controlled, which helps to improve the overall image quality. This adjustment allows for increased depth of field and sharper focus across the frame, as well as diminishing the effects of optical imperfections that are more prevalent at wider apertures. This principle is essential for photographers looking to achieve clear and high-quality images, especially when dealing with complex lighting situations or when using lenses known for aberrations.

In contrast, the other options do not effectively address the specific issue of lens aberrations. Staying at the widest aperture typically exacerbates these issues rather than solving them. Using a polarizing filter can enhance contrast and reduce glare but does not correct lens aberrations directly. Adjusting shutter speed alone does not influence optical performance; it only affects exposure discretion and motion blur. Therefore, stopping down the lens is the best approach for