What is a Telephoto Lens | Definition, Types & Popular Choices

Among the various types of lenses available to photographers, telephoto lenses hold a special place. These lenses are like binoculars for your camera, allowing you to zoom in on distant subjects and bring them closer to you. It lets you capture the details that would otherwise be lost to the naked eye.

But what exactly makes a lens “telephoto”? It’s not just about being able to zoom in. They have a longer focal length. It means they can magnify distant objects, and they often have a narrower field of view.

Well! This guide will succinctly cover what telephoto lenses are, their workings, types, and their role in enhancing your photography. Let’s delve into the specifics and unlock the potential of telephoto lenses in your photography endeavors.

What is a Telephoto Lens? (Definition)

A telephoto lens is a type of camera lens designed for photographing distant subjects. Characterized by a long focal length, typically longer than the standard lens. It magnifies the subject, making it appear closer than it is. This lens has a narrower field of view compared to wide-angle lenses.

It allows photographers to isolate and emphasize the subject while minimizing the background. Common in wildlife, portrait, and sports photography, telephoto lenses are essential for capturing details and moments from afar. It provides a unique perspective that distinguishes them from other lenses.

How Telephoto Lenses Work?

Telephoto lenses work by using a special optical design that allows them to magnify distant subjects. The optical design of a telephoto lens typically involves a complex arrangement of lens elements. These elements are precisely engineered to focus light in a way that extends the physical length of the light path within the lens.

This is achieved without necessarily increasing the physical length of the lens itself significantly. As a result, telephoto lenses can be more compact and manageable than their focal length might suggest. When light enters a telephoto lens, it passes through these lens elements.

Due to the longer focal length, the light rays converge at a point farther away from the lens, effectively ‘bringing’ the subject closer. This results in a larger image of the subject on the camera’s sensor or film, compared to what a standard lens would produce.

Additionally, the narrow field of view of telephoto lenses helps in isolating the subject from its surroundings. This isolation is beneficial in reducing distractions in the background and focusing on specific details.

Types of Telephoto Lenses

Telephoto lenses are categorized based on their focal length, and each type serves different photographic needs. Here are the main types:

Short Telephoto Lenses (85mm – 135mm)

These lenses typically have focal lengths ranging from 85mm to 135mm. They are relatively lightweight and compact. Short telephoto lenses are popular for portrait photography.

They provide a flattering perspective and a comfortable working distance between the photographer and the subject. Also, they’re used in street and event photography due to their versatility.

Medium Telephoto Lenses (135mm – 300mm)

Focal lengths in this category range from 135mm to 300mm. These lenses are larger and heavier than short telephotos and often come with features like image stabilization. Photographers commonly use them in sports and wildlife photography.

The longer focal lengths allow photographers to capture action-packed moments from a distance without disturbing the scene. They’re also suitable for capturing candid shots at events.

Super-Telephoto Lenses (300mm and above)

These lenses have focal lengths exceeding 300mm. Super-Telephoto lenses are typically the largest and heaviest in the telephoto category. And it often requires additional support like tripods or monopods.

Super-telephoto lenses are essential for serious wildlife and bird photography, where getting close to the subject is often not possible. They are also used in astronomical photography and for capturing distant landscapes.

Advantages of Telephoto Lenses

Telephoto lenses offer several advantages that make them a valuable addition to a photographer’s toolkit. These advantages enable unique photographic opportunities and creative expression:

Magnification of Distant Subjects: The primary advantage of telephoto lenses is their ability to make distant subjects appear significantly closer. This magnification is invaluable in situations where the photographer cannot physically move closer to the subject.

Selective Focus and Shallow Depth of Field: Telephoto lenses typically have a shallower depth of field compared to wide-angle lenses, especially at wider apertures. This allows for a selective focus effect, where the subject is sharply focused while the background is beautifully blurred (bokeh).

Compression Effect: Telephoto lenses can compress space, making objects appear closer together than they are. This effect can be used creatively to give a unique perspective on landscapes and cityscapes.

Improved Subject Isolation: The narrow field of view of a telephoto lens allows for more precise framing and isolation of the subject. It helps in eliminating unwanted elements from the frame.

Enhanced Portraits: For portrait photography, telephoto lenses can provide a flattering perspective. They tend to compress facial features and avoid the distortion that wider lenses might introduce.

Versatility in Various Photography Genres: Beyond sports and wildlife photography, telephoto lenses are versatile tools in genres like photojournalism. Here, capturing moments without intruding is essential. And in street photography, where candid shots from a distance can be taken without disturbing the scene.

How To Choose the Right Telephoto Lens

Choosing the right telephoto lens involves considering various factors. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:

Focal Length: The choice of focal length is crucial and should be based on the type of photography you primarily engage in. Short telephoto lenses (85mm to 135mm) are ideal for portraits and general photography.

Medium telephoto lenses (135mm to 300mm) are suited for sports and wildlife. And super-telephoto lenses (300mm and above) are best for capturing subjects from great distances, such as in bird or astronomical photography.

Maximum Aperture: A lens with a wider maximum aperture (lower f-number) allows more light to enter. However, lenses with wider apertures are generally more expensive and heavier.

Image Stabilization: Given the longer focal lengths of telephoto lenses, camera shake can be a significant issue, leading to blurred images. Lenses equipped with image stabilization (IS) technology help mitigate this problem by compensating for minor movements.

Size and Weight: Telephoto lenses can vary significantly in size and weight. Consider how you plan to use the lens—will you be traveling with it, or mostly using it in stationary settings? Your ability to carry and handle the lens comfortably for extended periods is important.

Autofocus Performance: Fast and accurate autofocus is crucial, especially for capturing fast-moving subjects in sports or wildlife photography. Look for lenses with a reputation for reliable autofocus performance.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: If you often shoot in challenging outdoor conditions, consider a lens with good build quality and weather sealing. It protects against dust, moisture, and other environmental factors.

Budget: Telephoto lenses can range from relatively affordable to quite expensive. Determine your budget beforehand. But also consider the lens as an investment in your photography.

Top 7 Popular Telephoto Lenses

Selecting the right lenses involves considering various brands and models, each known for its unique features and strengths. Here are some popular telephoto lenses, renowned for their performance and versatility across different photography genres:

1. Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM

A staple in the professional photographer’s bag, the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM is celebrated for its outstanding optical performance, robust build, and versatility. It excels in a wide range of photography genres, from portraits to sports.

Key Features:

• Fast f/2.8 maximum aperture
• Optical Image Stabilization
• Weather-sealed construction
• Superior image quality and sharpness
• Fast and silent autofocus system

Suggested Article– Best Lens for Sports Photography. 

2. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR

This lens is a powerhouse for Nikon shooters, offering exceptional clarity, speed, and flexibility. Its fast aperture and effective vibration reduction make it perfect for low-light situations and dynamic action shots.

Key Features:

• Constant f/2.8 aperture
• Advanced Vibration Reduction (VR)
• Electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism
• Nano Crystal Coat to reduce flare and ghosting
• Durable and lightweight construction

3. Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS

Part of Sony’s prestigious G Master series, this lens is designed for superior performance and resolution. Its extensive zoom range and portability make it an excellent choice for sports, wildlife, and action photography.

Key Features:

• Versatile 100-400mm zoom range
• Optical SteadyShot Image Stabilization
• Direct Drive SSM for fast, precise autofocus
• High resolution and bokeh with XA elements
• Dust and moisture-resistant design

4. Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM

Built for extreme telephoto photography, this Sigma lens combines a long reach with high image quality and durability. It’s designed to bring distant subjects into clear focus, ideal for wildlife and sports photography.

Key Features:

• Extensive 150-600mm zoom range
• Optical Stabilization for sharper images
• Weather-sealed construction for rugged use
• Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for fast and quiet autofocus
• Customizable with Sigma USB Dock

5. Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2

The Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 is a versatile and high-performing lens that offers an excellent balance of sharpness, bokeh, and professional features. It’s a favorite for its image stabilization, making it a strong competitor in its class. This lens is suitable for everything from portraits to sports.

Key Features:

• Fast f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the zoom range
• Vibration Compensation for image stabilization
• Ultra-Sonic Silent Drive motor for fast, quiet autofocus
• Moisture-resistant construction
• Compatible with Tamron teleconverters

6. Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO

Specifically designed for the Micro Four Thirds system, this Olympus lens is remarkably compact and lightweight for its focal length and aperture range. It delivers sharp, clear images with beautiful bokeh. Great choice for using Olympus and Panasonic mirrorless cameras.

Key Features:

• Constant f/2.8 aperture for excellent low-light performance
• Dual Voice Coil Motor focusing mechanism
• Splash, dust, and freezeproof design
• ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) coating to reduce ghosting and flare
• Teleconverter compatibility for extended focal lengths

7. Fujifilm XF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR

A super-telephoto zoom lens for Fujifilm X series mirrorless cameras, this lens is designed for wildlife and sports photographers. It offers a broad zoom range and a weather-resistant structure, alongside excellent image stabilization and high-resolution performance.

Key Features:

• 100-400mm focal length (152-609mm equivalent for 35mm format)
• Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to minimize camera shake
• Twin linear motor for fast and quiet autofocus
• Water and dust resistance
• Compatible with Fujifilm teleconverters

To Conclude

The world of telephoto lenses is rich with options catering to a wide range of photographic needs and preferences. Selecting the right lens involves considering your specific needs. Factors like focal length, maximum aperture, image stabilization, and budget all play crucial roles in your decision.

Remember, the best telephoto lens is the one that helps you achieve your creative vision and brings you closer to the subjects that inspire you the most.