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Sony Alpha standard general-purpose zoom lenses
Standard zoom lenses offer a general-purpose range from wide angle to short telephoto, thereby giving you great day-to-day flexibility. The vast majority of standard zoom lenses in use are those kit models which are popularly bundled with many DSLRs, such as the Sony DT 18-70mm model. Mounted on a Sony APS-C body like the A230, A330, A380 or A700, this will deliver an effective range of 27-105mm, thereby covering typical landscape shots to basic portrait work.
You may already own a standard zoom, but it can often be worth replacing it for a superior model. After all, as the lens range you use the most, you’ll see the benefit on the most photos. Better quality standard zooms may offer superior optics, an extended focal range, tougher construction, quicker focusing, brighter apertures or image stabilisation to reduce camera-shake.
As always, bear in mind any reduction in field due to your DSLRs sensor when choosing a lens. Sony's APS-C models like the A230, A330, A380 and A700 have a reduction factor of 1.5x, which effectively multiply lens focal lengths by 1.5 times. So if you go for a 16-80mm lens, you’ll actually have an equivalent of 24-120mm.
Note: Sony's DT lenses are not corrected for use with full-frame DSLRs. For a full explanation of lens specifications and examples of coverage at different focal lengths, check out our Lens Buyers Guide. |
