The EX-V7 uses an aspherical lens that provides 7x (38-266mm (35mm equiv)) optical zoom capabilities in an amazingly thin camera configuration. This is an all-glass, multicoated lens constructed of 12 elements in 9 groups with a maximum aperture of F/3.4 and has a 4X digital zoom option. The lens remains fully inside of the camera and is protected by a built in lens cover.