Telezooms

Telezooms are a class of camera lenses designed to cover long focal-length ranges within a single zoom. By extending from moderate telephoto to super-telephoto, they allow photographers to frame distant subjects without physically moving. They are commonly used on both full-frame and crop-sensor bodies and include popular ranges such as 70-200mm, 100-400mm, and 150-600mm.

Optical design for telezooms emphasizes minimizing aberrations across the range, often using low-dispersion elements and special coatings. Many models include image stabilization, fast autofocus motors, and weather sealing. Some telezooms offer a constant maximum aperture throughout the zoom range (for example, f/2.8 on certain 70-200mm designs), while others have a variable aperture (such as f/4-5.6).

Applications include wildlife and sports photography for extended reach, portraiture at longer distances, and event or surveillance work where proximity is limited. The ability to quickly adjust framing without swapping lenses makes telezooms a versatile tool in fast-changing situations.

Notable examples span multiple systems. Common models include 70-200mm f/2.8 variants from major brands, as well as longer-range super-telezooms such as 100-400mm and 150-600mm from various manufacturers. These lenses are typically heavier and more expensive than standard zooms, reflecting their specialized optics and broader reach.

History and trends indicate that telezooms gained prominence in the late 20th century and evolved with improvements in coatings, stabilization, and autofocus. In modern mirrorless systems, lighter designs and shorter back focus have further enhanced portability while preserving reach and image quality. When selecting a telezoom, considerations include focal range, maximum aperture, stabilization, weight, and compatibility with camera bodies.