The lens has a full-frame-equivalent zoom range of 27mm to 75mm, with superb edge-to-edge sharpness at all apertures owing to the latest optical design technology. This includes one Special Low Dispersion (SLD) element and three aspherical elements to control unwanted optical aberrations such a chromatic aberration.

The constant aperture of F2.8 allows for a shallow depth-of-field, making it easy to achieve blurry backgrounds. A fast aperture also makes it easier to shoot hand-held in low light – ideal for weddings and other situations where a tripod isn’t convenient. The 18-50mm has a minimum focusing distance of 12.1cm and a maximum magnification of 1:2.8*1, perfect for capturing close-ups of smaller subjects such as flowers and insects.