A lens that allows you to select among multiple focal lengths without moving is a...

• A. Telephoto lens
• B. Wide angle lens
• C. Zoom lens
• D. Macro lens

Answer: (C)

Changing focal length without moving the camera is what a zoom lens does. A zoom lens lets you vary focal length by turning a ring, giving you a range of viewing angles in one lens and allowing you to reframe or magnify a subject while you stay in the same spot. That ability to select among multiple focal lengths without physically moving is the defining feature of a zoom lens.

Telephoto and wide-angle describe specific focal-length ranges and their typical uses, not the ability to adjust between many focal lengths in a single lens. A macro lens is designed for close-up work and high magnification rather than changing focal length. So the lens that best fits the idea of selecting multiple focal lengths without moving is the zoom lens.