If you are on the lookout for a Sony 16-80 guide that will not only talk about the technical and build aspects of the lens, but something more, then you must try to collate this information from various sources. A comprehensive guide would talk about not just the lens review, but also the following aspects. It would cover in detail, the various elements and how the lens would handle each of these things. This includes chromatic aberrations, wide angle exposure, sharpness, bokeh and image quality. There are other aspects as well that would be covered such as test results. Now, here is the catch. Test results would depend on two factors, or rather three factors – the lens used, the camera used and of course the photographer who is clicking the pictures. A great photographer can get really good images even with just an average lens and an average camera.
The Sony 18-200 is a beginner’s all purpose lens. Therefore when reviewed by a professional photographer the lens may not really do well. But you should remember that the lens was not meant for professional use in the first place. If you really want an honest opinion about the practical use of this lens, then ask around to friends and family about how useful the lens is for their needs. If it is good for them, chances are high that it is good for you despite what the experts might say. Most beginners do not have a budget upwards of a thousand dollars to buy high end lenses and thus this lens becomes a good first choice. After all, no one is bothered about a slight amount of vignetting or distortion or chromatic aberration when it is used for clicking pictures on a vacation or a holiday party at home.