1. Product Overview
The Sony SELP18105G E PZ 18-105mm F4 G OSS lens is a high-performance E-mount lens designed for Sony E-mount cameras. It features a versatile 18-105mm focal length range (27-158mm equivalent on APS-C sensors) with a constant F4 maximum aperture, making it suitable for a wide array of photographic situations from wide-angle landscapes to medium telephoto portraits.
This G Lens incorporates advanced optical design with two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements and three aspherical elements to ensure high resolution and contrast across the entire zoom range. The lens also includes built-in Optical SteadyShot (OSS) image stabilization to minimize blur caused by camera shake, and a power zoom mechanism for smooth, controlled zooming, particularly beneficial for video recording.
Figure 1.1: Front view of the Sony SELP18105G lens, showcasing its design and E-mount designation.
2. What's in the Box
Upon unpacking your Sony SELP18105G lens, please ensure all the following items are present:
- Sony SELP18105G E PZ 18-105mm F4 G OSS Lens
- Lens Hood (ALC-SH128)
- Lens Front Cap
- Lens Rear Cap
3. Setup and Installation
3.1 Attaching the Lens to Your Camera
- Ensure both the camera and the lens are powered off.
- Remove the rear lens cap from the SELP18105G lens and the body cap from your camera.
- Align the white index mark on the lens barrel with the white index mark on your camera's lens mount.
- Insert the lens into the camera mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.
- Attach the lens hood by aligning its mark with the mark on the front of the lens, then rotate until it locks.
3.2 Removing the Lens
- Ensure the camera is powered off.
- While pressing the lens release button on the camera body, rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it stops.
- Carefully remove the lens from the camera.
- Immediately attach the rear lens cap to the lens and the body cap to the camera to protect the sensors and lens elements from dust.
4. Operating the Lens
4.1 Power Zoom Control
The SELP18105G features a power zoom lever for smooth and consistent zooming, ideal for video recording. The lever is located on the side of the lens barrel.
- Move the lever towards 'T' (Telephoto) to zoom in.
- Move the lever towards 'W' (Wide) to zoom out.
Figure 4.1: The power zoom control lever, marked 'W' for wide and 'T' for telephoto, allows for smooth focal length adjustments.
4.2 Manual Zoom Ring
In addition to the power zoom, the lens also features a manual zoom ring for tactile control over focal length. Rotating this ring will adjust the zoom.
4.3 Optical SteadyShot (OSS)
The lens is equipped with built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilization. This feature helps to reduce blur when shooting handheld, especially in low light or at longer focal lengths. The OSS function is typically controlled via your camera's menu settings.
4.4 Focusing
The SELP18105G supports both autofocus (AF) and manual focus (MF). The focus mode is typically selected on your camera body. When using autofocus, the lens employs internal focusing, meaning the front element does not rotate, which is convenient for using polarizing filters.
5. Maintenance and Care
- Cleaning the Lens Surface: Use a lens blower to remove dust, then gently wipe with a clean, soft lens cloth. For stubborn smudges, use a small amount of lens cleaning fluid on the cloth.
- Storage: When not in use, always attach the front and rear lens caps. Store the lens in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the lens to strong impacts. Do not touch the lens contacts with your bare hands.
- Moisture: Protect the lens from rain, splashes, and high humidity. If it gets wet, wipe it dry immediately.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Lens not attaching to camera | Incorrect alignment; obstruction on mount | Ensure white index marks are aligned. Check for debris on lens or camera mount. |
| Autofocus not working | Camera focus mode set to MF; dirty lens contacts; insufficient light | Set camera to AF mode. Clean lens and camera contacts. Ensure adequate lighting for focusing. |
| Images are blurry | Camera shake; incorrect focus; dirty lens element | Enable OSS. Re-focus. Clean lens. Use a faster shutter speed or tripod. |
| Power zoom not responding | Camera not powered on; lens not properly attached | Ensure camera is on. Re-attach lens securely. |
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | SELP18105G |
| Focal Length | 18-105mm (27-158mm 35mm equivalent on APS-C) |
| Maximum Aperture | F4 (constant) |
| Minimum Aperture | F22 |
| Lens Type | Wide Angle, Telephoto |
| Compatible Mountings | Sony E-mount |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.48 ft (Wide) - 3.12 ft (Tele) |
| Maximum Magnification Ratio | 0.11x |
| Filter Diameter | 72 mm |
| Number of Aperture Blades | 7 (circular) |
| Image Stabilization | Optical SteadyShot (OSS) |
| Product Dimensions | 4.33 x 3.07 x 3.07 inches |
| Item Weight | 15.1 ounces |
Figure 7.1: Key specifications and physical dimensions of the SELP18105G lens.
8. Warranty and Support
This product is sold as is in the condition described. No warranty is available from the seller. For any manufacturer-specific warranty information or support, please refer to Sony's official documentation or website.
For technical assistance or further inquiries, please contact Sony customer support.
9. Important Safety Information
- Do not look at the sun or bright light sources through the lens, as this can cause severe eye damage.
- Keep the lens out of reach of small children.
- Avoid exposing the lens to extreme temperatures, humidity, or strong magnetic fields.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the lens, as this may cause malfunction and void any potential warranty.
