6. Lens: Clearly A Strong Point!

Since it uses a "large" sensor, the R1 must use a lens whose image circle covers the format of the sensor. Because of that, it can't rival standard small-sensor bridge cameras in the area of zoom ratio. Where they can easily go beyond 10x, the R1 has a zoom ratio of less than 5x. On the other hand, the shortest focal length is equivalent to 24 mm (35 mm SLR equivalent), making it a true wide-angle, which is still rare outside the SLR world. The maximum focal length of 120 mm equivalent is quite suitable for normal use such as portrait work, but obviously you can't expect it to shoot close-ups of distant subjects. Sony does offer additional lens converters, but they're no miracle solution, nor are they very practical. So if you need very long focal lengths, choose another model!

The maximum aperture of f/2.8 in wide-angle position is very satisfactory, but it's only f/4.8 at the telephoto end, which is obviously less attractive. Here again, you see a consequence of the use of a large sensor - you'd need an enormous front element to maintain the same brightness at long focal lengths. In the world of SLRs, zooms with a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture usually don't go beyond 80 mm equivalent, and they can cost more than a whole Sony R1...

The minimum focusing distance for macro shooting is 13.8" (350 mm). This value might sound very high, but remember that it designates the distance to the focal plane, and not to the front lens element in the telephoto position. So the R1, while it can't do extreme macro work, can nevertheless frame small objects. The minimum framing area is approximately 4x2.5" (10x6.6 cm), which is good, even if it can't rival the capabilities of some compacts. You'll need a lens extension if you want to work closer.

Sony has leveraged their partnership with Carl Zeiss to get the best quality optics possible, using a special design concept that's different from that of an SLR. The absence of a mirror in the R1 made it possible to position the rear lens of the zoom at only 2.1 mm from the focal plane, in order to reduce chromatic aberration. The lens can use screw-on filters with a diameter of 67 mm, and a bayonet-mounted hood is provided. Using it all the time is a good idea, if only to protect the front lens, which is very vulnerable without it.