In this series of articles, we will go through one by one, the recommended lens for all APS-C users. With it as a guide, you will be able to start building your own lens system. In this article, we will learn more about the telephoto zoom lens EF-S55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II. (Reported by: Ryosuke Takahashi)
![](https://d1hjkbq40fs2x4.cloudfront.net/images/348.jpg )
Light and compact telephoto zoom lens
This telephoto zoom lens boasts high popularity for its cost effectiveness and compact size. With an amazingly light weight of about 390g and a closest focusing distance as short as 108mm, this lens covers a focal length range equivalent to about 88 to 400mm in the 35mm format. Not only is the EF-S55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II capable of capturing a close up shot of distant objects, you can also enjoy perspective compression effects unique to a telephoto lens. Besides an IS function that is able to distinguish between normal and pan shots, the high resolving power and well-balanced contrast also contribute to its impeccable image quality.
At a Glance!
- Angle of view equivalent to about 400mm
- Closest focusing distance of about 1.1m
250mm
FL: 250mm/ Program AE (1/250 sec., f/5.6, -0.7EV)/ ISO 1000/ WB: Auto
This shot would not have been possible without the long focal length of about 250mm. Also, with the high resolving power, the details of the feathers are sharply depicted.
![](https://d1hjkbq40fs2x4.cloudfront.net/images/348-3.jpg)
55mm
FL: 55mm/ Aperture- priority AE (1/200 sec., f/8)/ ISO 100/ WB: Auto
With a focal length equivalent to about 88mm in the 35mm format, I captured a tram threading its way through a narrow alley. For a scene like this, instead of pulling a distant scene in close by zooming to the telephoto side, it is easier to create a balanced composition by including the surroundings using a mid-telephoto focal length.
![](https://d1hjkbq40fs2x4.cloudfront.net/images/348-4.jpg)
Lens construction: 12 elements 10 groups
Closest focusing distance: Approx. 1.1m
Max. magnification: Approx. 0.31x
Filter size:φ58mm
Size: Approx. φ70×108mm
Weight: Approx. 390g
![](https://d1hjkbq40fs2x4.cloudfront.net/images/64_9.jpg)
Born in Aichi in 1960, Takahashi started his freelance career in 1987 after working with an advertising photo studio and a publishing house. Photographing for major magazines, he has travelled to many parts of the world from his bases in Japan and China. Takahashi is a member of the Japan Professional Photographers Society (JPS).