An imaging system is characterized at least by an ambiguity function
("AF") and a point spread function ("PSF"). The AF is a function of
parameters u and v related to a misfocus parameter .psi.; the PSF is at
least a function of .psi.. The system includes (1) an image recording
device, (2) an optical arrangement for imaging an object to the image
recording device, and (3) a post processor that renders an in-focus
electronic image over a range of distances between the object and the
optical arrangement. The optical arrangement alters phase such that a
main lobe of the AF is broader in v for a specific u. The PSF has a
functionally different form for a specific .psi., in comparison to a PSF
characterizing the system when the optical arrangement does not alter the
phase for those specific values of u and .psi. over the range of
distances.