Konica Minolta AF Zoom DT 11-18mm f/4.5-5.6 (D)
The Konica Minolta AF Zoom DT 11-18mm f/4.5-5.6 (D) is an ultra-wide angle zoom lens designed for use with APS-C sized digital SLR cameras. It was initially released by Konica Minolta and later continued under the Sony brand after Sony acquired Konica Minolta's camera division. The "DT" designation signifies that the lens is designed specifically for cameras with APS-C sensors, meaning it is not optimized for full-frame sensors and may exhibit vignetting or other optical issues if used on a full-frame body.
This lens offers a focal length range of 11mm to 18mm, providing a wide field of view suitable for landscapes, architecture, and interior photography. The variable aperture of f/4.5-5.6 means the maximum aperture changes as the lens is zoomed; f/4.5 is available at the 11mm end, narrowing to f/5.6 at the 18mm end.
The "(D)" designation refers to distance encoding, which provides distance information to the camera. This distance information can be used by the camera's metering system for more accurate flash exposure, particularly in situations where flash fill is used.
Key features of the lens typically include:
- Ultra-wide angle zoom: Provides a very wide field of view.
- APS-C optimized: Designed for cameras with smaller APS-C sensors.
- Distance encoding (D): Transmits distance information to the camera for improved flash metering.
- Autofocus: Allows for automatic focusing via the camera's autofocus system.
This lens is generally considered a budget-friendly option for users seeking an ultra-wide angle lens for their Sony or Konica Minolta APS-C cameras.