With its wide angle view from 102.4 degrees it can produce
striking images with exaggerated perspective. The maximum aperture of F3.5 is
ideal for indoor shooting and it enables photographers to emphasize the
subject. Two ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion) glass elements and a SLD
(Special Low Dispersion) glass element provide excellent correction of color
aberration. Four aspherical lenses provide correction for distortion and allow
compact and lightweight construction. The super multi-layer coating reduces
flare and ghosting. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom
range. The incorporation of HSM (Hyper-Sonic Motor) ensures a quiet and high-
speed auto focus as well as full-time manual focusing capability. This lens
has a minimum focusing distance of 9.4 inches (24cm) throughout the entire
zoom range and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:6.6. The lens design
incorporates an inner focusing system which eliminates front lens rotation,
making the lens particularly suitable for using the Petal-type hood and
polarizing filter. The Petal-type hood blocks extraneous light and reduces
internal reflection.