Mark Ellington
Sony 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 Lens
The Sony SEL24240 FE 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS Zoom Lens is a versatile and powerful option for photographers and videographers using Sony’s α7 series and other full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras. Manufactured by Sony, a leader in imaging technology, this lens is designed to cater to a wide range of shooting needs, from landscapes and portraits to wildlife and events.
Product Appearance and Design
The Sony SEL24240 lens showcases a sleek and professional black finish that blends seamlessly with Sony’s mirrorless camera bodies. The overall aesthetic is minimalistic yet robust, making it an attractive addition to any photographer’s kit. Made primarily of high-quality plastic, the lens feels solid in hand, and its compact design ensures it’s not too cumbersome for extended use.
Unique design features include a dust and moisture resistant construction, allowing for peace of mind during outdoor shoots in unpredictable weather. The lens also features a 72mm filter diameter, accommodating a variety of filters for creative photography.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal length: 24-240mm (10x zoom)
- Aperture range: f/3.5-6.3
- Optical Steady Shot image stabilization
- Minimum focus distance: 1.64 ft (0.5 m)
- Maximum magnification ratio: 0.27x
- 5 spherical lens elements and ED glass to reduce flare and ghosting
- 7-blade circular aperture for smooth bokeh
- Fast focus with linear motor drive and inner focus mechanism
- Weight: 1.46 lbs (660g)
- Warranty: 1 year coverage for parts
Usage Experience
In various scenarios, the Sony SEL24240 lens performed admirably. The versatility of the 10x zoom range allowed for quick adjustments, whether capturing wide landscapes at 24mm or zooming in on distant subjects at 240mm. The lens produced sharp images with impressive corner-to-corner clarity, making it a reliable choice for professional and amateur photographers alike.
The Optical Steady Shot image stabilization was particularly beneficial for handheld shooting, reducing the impact of camera shake during low-light conditions or when shooting at longer focal lengths. The fast autofocus system with a linear motor drive ensured minimal lag, allowing for spontaneous captures without missing a moment.
In addition, the lens’s ability to create beautiful bokeh made portrait shots stand out, emphasizing subjects while softly blurring backgrounds. The weather-resistant design offered peace of mind while shooting in less-than-ideal conditions.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Versatile 24-240mm zoom range
- Sharp image quality with minimal distortion
- Effective image stabilization
- Fast and reliable autofocus
- Weather-sealed design for outdoor use
Cons
- Maximum aperture of f/6.3 can be limiting in low light
- Some users may find it slightly heavy for long-term handheld use
- Price point may be high for casual photographers
Conclusion
Overall, the Sony SEL24240 FE 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS Zoom Lens is a fantastic choice for those seeking a versatile, high-quality lens for their mirrorless camera system. Its combination of impressive optical performance, robust design, and user-friendly features make it suitable for a wide array of photographic applications. While the price may be a consideration for some, the value it offers in return is undeniable. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an enthusiast, this lens is likely to enhance your shooting experience and creativity.
