Zoom lens and imaging apparatus

The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-090402, filed on May 28, 2021. The above application is hereby expressly incorporated by reference, in its entirety, into the present application.

The technology of the present disclosure relates to a zoom lens and an imaging apparatus.

In the related art, as a zoom lens applicable to an imaging apparatus such as a digital camera and a video camera, for example, the lens systems described in WO2019/116563A and WO2019/116565A are known.

There is a demand for a zoom lens that is configured to have a small size, has a high magnification, and is advantageous for autofocus.

The present disclosure has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a zoom lens which is reduced in size and has a high magnification and is advantageous for autofocus, and an imaging apparatus comprising the zoom lens.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a zoom lens consisting of, in order from an object side to an image side: a first lens group that has a positive refractive power; a middle group that includes a plurality of lens groups in which a spacing between adjacent lens groups changes during zooming; and a final lens group. A focusing group that moves during focusing is disposed in the middle group. Assuming that a difference in an optical axis direction between a position of the focusing group in a state in which an infinite distance object is in focus at a telephoto end and a position of the focusing group in a state in which a lateral magnification of a whole system at the telephoto end is −0.1 times is DF, and a focal length of the whole system in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is ft, Conditional Expression (1) is satisfied, which is represented by

0.04< DF/ft <0.4  (1).

In the zoom lens according to the first aspect, it is preferable that Conditional Expression (1-1) is satisfied, which is represented by

0.05< DF/ft <0.2  (1-1).

In the zoom lens according to the first aspect, it is preferable that a difference in the optical axis direction between a position of each lens group in the middle group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at a wide angle end and a position thereof in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at a telephoto end is set as an amount of zooming movement. Assuming that the amount of zooming movement of a lens group, of which the amount of zooming movement is maximum, among the lens groups in the middle group is DV, and a focal length of the whole system in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is fw, it is preferable that Conditional Expression (2) is satisfied, which is represented by

2< DV/fw <18  (2).

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a zoom lens consisting of, in order from an object side to an image side: a first lens group that has a positive refractive power; a middle group that includes a plurality of lens groups in which a spacing between adjacent lens groups changes during zooming; and a final lens group. A focusing group that moves during focusing is disposed in the middle group, a difference in the optical axis direction between a position of each lens group in the middle group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at a wide angle end and a position thereof in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is set as an amount of zooming movement. Assuming that the amount of zooming movement of a lens group, of which the amount of zooming movement is maximum, among the lens groups in the middle group is DV, and a focal length of the whole system in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is fw, Conditional Expression (2) is satisfied, which is represented by

2< DV/fw <18  (2).

In the zoom lens according to the second aspect, it is preferable that Conditional Expression (2-1), which is represented by

3.5< DV/fw <15  (2-1).

Hereinafter, in this term, the zoom lenses according to the first and second aspects are collectively referred to as the zoom lenses of the above-mentioned aspects. Assuming that a lateral magnification of the focusing group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βFt, and a combined lateral magnification of all lenses closer to the image side than the focusing group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βRt, it is preferable that the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect satisfies Conditional Expression (3), which is represented by

0.5<(1−β Ft 2 )×β Rt 2 <5  (3).

It is preferable that the middle group includes at least one negative movable lens group, which is a lens group that has a negative refractive power and moves during zooming. In the configuration in which the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect includes at least one negative movable lens group, assuming that in a case where a plurality of the negative movable lens groups are continuously disposed in the middle group, a combined lateral magnification of the plurality of the negative movable lens groups continuously disposed in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at a wide angle end is βMnw, and a combined lateral magnification of the plurality of negative movable lens groups continuously disposed in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βMnt, in a case where the plurality of negative movable lens groups are not continuously disposed in the middle group, a lateral magnification of any one of the negative movable lens groups in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is βMnw, and a lateral magnification of any one of the negative movable lens groups in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βMnt, a focal length of the negative movable lens group that has a strongest refractive power among the negative movable lens groups in the middle group is fMn1, and a focal length of the final lens group is fE, it is preferable that the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect satisfies Conditional Expressions (4), (5), and (6), which are represented by

−0.5<β Mnw <−0.05  (4),

−24<β Mnt <−2  (5), and

0.02<| fMn|/fE |<0.2  (6).

Assuming that a focal length of the focusing group is fF, and a focal length of the final lens group is fE, it is preferable that the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect satisfies Conditional Expression (7), which is represented by

0.04<| fF/fE |<0.4  (7).

It is preferable that the middle group includes at least one negative movable lens group, which is a lens group that has a negative refractive power and moves during zooming. In a configuration in which the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect includes at least one negative movable lens group, assuming that in a case where a plurality of the negative movable lens groups are continuously disposed in the middle group, a combined lateral magnification of the plurality of the negative movable lens groups continuously disposed in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at a wide angle end is βMnw, and a combined lateral magnification of the plurality of negative movable lens groups continuously disposed in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βMnt, in a case where the plurality of negative movable lens groups are not continuously disposed in the middle group, a lateral magnification of any one of the negative movable lens groups in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is βMnw, and a lateral magnification of any one of the negative movable lens groups in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βMnt, a focal length of the focusing group is fF, and a focal length of the final lens group is fE, it is preferable that the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect satisfies Conditional Expressions (4), (5), and (7), which are represented by

−0.5<β Mnw<− 0.05  (4),

−24<β Mnt <−2  (5), and

0.04<| fF/fE |<0.4  (7).

Assuming that a sum of a back focal length of the whole system at an air conversion distance and a distance on an optical axis from a lens surface closest to the object side in the first lens group to a lens surface closest to the image side in the final lens group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is TTL, and a focal length of the whole system in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is ft, it is preferable that the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect satisfies Conditional Expression (8), which is represented by

0.5< TTL/ft <3  (8).

In the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect, it is preferable that the first lens group remains stationary with respect to an image plane during zooming.

In the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect, it is preferable that the first lens group includes at least two positive lenses.

It is preferable that a difference in the optical axis direction between a position of each lens group in the middle group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at a wide angle end and a position thereof in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is set as an amount of zooming movement. Assuming that the amount of zooming movement of a lens group, of which the amount of zooming movement is maximum, among the lens groups in the middle group is DV, a maximum image height is Ymax, a focal length of the whole system in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is ft, and a focal length of the whole system in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is fw, it is preferable that the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect satisfies Conditional Expression (9), which is represented by

5< DV/{Y max×log( ft/fw )}<15  (9).

Assuming that a difference in an optical axis direction between a position of the focusing group in a state in which an infinite distance object is in focus at a telephoto end and a position of the focusing group in a state in which a lateral magnification of a whole system at the telephoto end is −0.1 times is DF, and a focal length of the focusing group is fF, it is preferable that the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect satisfies Conditional Expression (10), which is represented by

0.1<| DF/fF |<1  (10).

In the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect, it is preferable that the focusing group is disposed closest to the image side in the middle group.

In the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect, a lens group that moves during zooming is set as a movable lens group, and a movable lens group closest to the object side among movable lens groups in the middle group is set as a leading movable lens group. Assuming that a combined focal length of a movable lens group line in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at a wide angle end is fMVw, in a case where the middle group includes the movable lens group line consisting of a plurality of movable lens groups that include the leading movable lens group and are continuously disposed, a focal length of the leading movable lens group is fMVw, in a case where the middle group does not include the movable lens group line, and a focal length of the first lens group is fl, it is preferable that the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect satisfies Conditional Expression (11), which is represented by

−0.4 <fMVw/fl <−0.03  (11).

In the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect, a lens group that moves during zooming is set as a movable lens group, and a movable lens group closest to the object side among movable lens groups in the middle group is set as a leading movable lens group. Assuming that a combined lateral magnification of a movable lens group line in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βMVt, in a case where the middle group includes the movable lens group line consisting of a plurality of movable lens groups that include the leading movable lens group and are continuously disposed, and a lateral magnification of the leading movable lens group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βMVt, in a case where the middle group does not include the movable lens group line, it is preferable that the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect satisfies Conditional Expression (12), which is represented by

−20<β MVt <−1.1  (12).

It is preferable that the middle group includes at least one stationary lens group which is a lens group remaining stationary with respect to an image plane during zooming. In the configuration in which the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect includes at least one stationary lens group, assuming that a lateral magnification of the final lens group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βE, and a lateral magnification of the stationary lens group closest to the image side among the stationary lens groups in the middle group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βMS, it is preferable that Conditional Expressions (13) and (14) are satisfied, which are represented by

1 <βE <2  (13), and

−1.8<1/β MS <1.4  (14).

Assuming that a lateral magnification of the focusing group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at a wide angle end is βFw, a combined lateral magnification of all lenses closer to the image side than the focusing group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is βRw, γ=(1−βFw 2 )×βRw 2 , a focal length of the focusing group is fF, a combined focal length of all lenses closer to the image side than the focusing group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is fRw, a distance from an exit pupil position to an image plane in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is De, a sign of De is positive in a case where the exit pupil position is closer to the object side than the image plane, and is negative in a case where the exit pupil position is closer to the image side than the image plane, and a maximum image height is Ymax, it is preferable that the zoom lens of the above-mentioned aspect satisfies Conditional Expression (15), which is represented by

−0.1<{β Fw /( fF ×γ)−1/(β Rw×fRw )−(1/ De )}× Y max<0.1  (15).

The imaging apparatus according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a zoom lens according to the above-mentioned aspect of the present disclosure.

In the present specification, it should be noted that the terms “consisting of” and “consists of” mean that the lens may include not only the above-mentioned constituent elements but also lenses substantially having no refractive powers, optical elements, which are not lenses, such as a stop, a filter, and a cover glass, and mechanism parts such as a lens flange, a lens barrel, an imaging element, and a camera shaking correction mechanism.

The term “˜group that has a positive refractive power” in the present specification means that the group has a positive refractive power as a whole. Similarly, the term “˜group that has a negative refractive power” means that the group has a negative refractive power as a whole. The term “a lens that has a positive refractive power” and the term “a positive lens” are synonymous. The term “a lens that has a negative refractive power” and the term “negative lens” are synonymous. The terms “˜lens group” and “focusing group” in the present specification are not limited to a configuration consisting of a plurality of lenses, but may be a configuration consisting of only one lens.

A compound aspherical lens (a lens in which a spherical lens and an aspherical film formed on the spherical lens are integrally formed and function as one aspherical lens as a whole) is not regarded as cemented lenses, but the compound aspherical lens is regarded as one lens. The sign of the refractive power of the lens including the aspherical surface will be used in terms of the paraxial region unless otherwise specified.

The term “whole system” in the present specification refers to a zoom lens. The “back focal length” is a distance on the optical axis from the lens surface closest to the image side in the zoom lens to the image plane. The “focal length” used in a conditional expression is a paraxial focal length. Unless otherwise specified, the values used in the conditional expressions are values based on the d line.

The “d line”, “C line”, “F line”, and “g line” described in the present specification are emission lines. The wavelength of the d line is 587.56 nm (nanometers) and the wavelength of the C line is 656.27 nm (nanometers), the wavelength of F line is 486.13 nm (nanometers), and the wavelength of g line is 435.84 nm (nanometers).

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a zoom lens which is reduced in size and has a high magnification and is advantageous for autofocus, and an imaging apparatus comprising the zoom lens.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a zoom lens according to an embodiment and a diagram illustrating movement loci thereof, the zoom lens corresponding to a zoom lens of Example 1.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration and luminous flux in each state of the zoom lens of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating aberrations of the zoom lens of Example 1.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a configuration of a zoom lens of Example 2 and a diagram illustrating movement loci thereof.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating aberrations of the zoom lens of Example 2.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a configuration of a zoom lens of Example 3 and a diagram illustrating movement loci thereof.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating aberrations of the zoom lens of Example 3.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a configuration of a zoom lens of Example 4 and a diagram illustrating movement loci thereof.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration and luminous flux in each state of the zoom lens of Example 4.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating aberrations of the zoom lens of Example 4.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a configuration of a zoom lens of Example 5 and a diagram illustrating movement loci thereof.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating aberrations of the zoom lens of Example 5.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a configuration of a zoom lens of Example 6 and a diagram illustrating movement loci thereof.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating aberrations of the zoom lens of Example 6.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a configuration of a zoom lens of Example 7 and a diagram illustrating movement loci thereof.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating aberrations of the zoom lens of Example 7.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a configuration of a zoom lens of Example 8 and a diagram illustrating movement loci thereof.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a configuration and luminous flux in each state of the zoom lens of Example 8.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating aberrations of the zoom lens of Example 8.

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a configuration of a zoom lens of Example 9 and a diagram illustrating movement loci thereof.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating aberrations of the zoom lens of Example 9.

FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an imaging apparatus according to an embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a configuration and movement loci of a zoom lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure at a wide angle end. Further, FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view and a luminous flux of the configuration of the zoom lens of FIG. 1 in each state. In FIG. 2 , the upper part labeled “WIDE” shows a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end, the middle part labeled “TELE” shows a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end, and the lower part labeled “TELE, β=−0.1” shows a state in which the lateral magnification of the zoom lens at the telephoto end is −0.1 times. In FIG. 2 , as the luminous flux, the upper part shows the on-axis luminous flux wa and the luminous flux with the maximum image height wb, the middle part shows the on-axis luminous flux to and the luminous flux with the maximum image height tb, and the lower part shows the on-axis luminous flux ta 1 and the luminous flux with the maximum image height tb 1 . The examples shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 correspond to a zoom lens of Example 1 to be described later. In FIGS. 1 and 2 , the left side is the object side and the right side is the image side. Hereinafter, the zoom lens according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described mainly with reference to FIG. 1 .

FIG. 1 shows an example in which an optical member PP of which the incident surface and emission surface are parallel is disposed between the zoom lens and an image plane Sim under the assumption that the zoom lens is applied to an imaging apparatus. The optical member PP is a member that assumes a protective cover glass, various filters according to the use of an imaging apparatus, a prism, and the like. The various filters include, for example, a low pass filter, an infrared cut filter, and a filter that cuts a specific wavelength region. The optical member PP is a member that has no refractive power. It is also possible to configure the imaging apparatus by removing the optical member PP.

The zoom lens according to the present embodiment consists of a first lens group G 1 having a positive refractive power, a middle group GM, and a final lens group GE in order from the object side to the image side. By forming the first lens group G 1 closest to the object side as a lens group that has a positive refractive power, there is an advantage in achieving reduction in total length of the lens system. During zooming, the spacing between the first lens group G 1 and the middle group GM changes, and the spacing between the middle group GM and the final lens group GE changes.

The middle group GM includes a plurality of lens groups in which the spacings between the adjacent lens groups change during zooming. It should be noted that the term “lens group” in the present specification refers to a part including the at least one lens, which is a constituent part of the zoom lens and is divided by an air spacing that changes during zooming. During zooming, the lens groups move or remain stationary, and the mutual spacing between the lenses in one lens group does not change. That is, in the present specification, one lens group is a group in which the spacing between adjacent groups changes during zooming and the total spacing between adjacent lenses does not change within itself.

For example, the zoom lens in FIG. 1 consists of, in order from the object side to the image side, a first lens group G 1 , a second lens group G 2 , a third lens group G 3 , a fourth lens group G 4 , a fifth lens group G 5 , and a sixth lens group G 6 . In the example of FIG. 1 , the middle group GM consists of a second lens group G 2 , a third lens group G 3 , a fourth lens group G 4 , and a fifth lens group G 5 . In FIG. 1 , ‘(+)’ and ‘(−)’ indicate the sign of the refractive power of each lens group.

For example, each lens group in the example of FIG. 1 is composed of the lenses described below. The first lens group G 1 consists of three lenses L 11 to L 13 in order from the object side to the image side. The second lens group G 2 consists of one lens L 21 . The third lens group G 3 consists of four lenses L 31 to L 34 in order from the object side to the image side. The fourth lens group G 4 consists of an aperture stop St and five lenses L 41 to L 45 in order from the object side to the image side. The fifth lens group G 5 consists of three lenses L 51 to L 53 in order from the object side to the image side. The sixth lens group G 6 consists of two lenses L 61 and L 62 in order from the object side to the image side. The aperture stop St shown in FIG. 1 does not indicate the shape and size, but indicates the position in the optical axis direction.

In the example of FIG. 1 , during zooming, the first lens group G 1 , the fourth lens group G 4 , and the sixth lens group G 6 remain stationary with respect to the image plane Sim, and the second lens group G 2 , the third lens group G 3 , and the fifth lens group G 5 move along the optical axis Z by changing the spacings between the adjacent lens groups. In FIG. 1 , during zooming from the wide angle end to the telephoto end, the curved arrow under each movable lens group indicates a schematic movement locus thereof, and a ground symbol is shown under each movable lens group which remains stationary with respect to the image plane Sim.

As in the example of FIG. 1 , it is preferable that the first lens group G 1 remains stationary with respect to the image plane Sim during zooming. In such a case, since the total length of the lens system does not change even in a case where the magnification is changed, change in centroid during zooming can be suppressed. This is particularly effective because it is possible to suppress change in centroid during zooming while the zoom lens is attached to the gimbal. Further, in such a case, it is preferable that the lens group closest to the object side in the middle group GM moves during zooming.

In the zoom lens according to the present embodiment, the focusing group that moves during focusing is disposed in the middle group GM. The focusing group includes at least one lens and is a group that performs focusing by moving along the optical axis Z. By disposing the focusing group in the middle group GM closer to the image side than the first lens group G 1 , the effective diameter of the focusing group can be reduced. As a result, there is an advantage in achieving reduction in size. In the example of FIG. 1 , the focusing group consists of the fifth lens group G 5 . The parentheses below the fifth lens group G 5 and the horizontal arrow in FIG. 1 indicate that the fifth lens group G 5 is the focusing group.

Next, preferable and possible configurations about the conditional expressions of the zoom lens of the present disclosure will be described. Hereinafter, the lens group that moves during zooming is referred to as a “movable lens group”, and the lens group remaining stationary with respect to the image plane Sim during zooming is referred to as a “stationary lens group”. In the following description of preferable and possible configurations, the “zoom lens of the present disclosure” is also simply referred to as a “zoom lens” in order to avoid redundancy.

Regarding an amount of movement of the focusing group, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (1). Here, it is assumed that a difference in an optical axis direction between a position of the focusing group in a state in which an infinite distance object is in focus at a telephoto end and a position of the focusing group in a state in which a lateral magnification of a whole system at the telephoto end is −0.1 times is DF. Further, it is assumed that a focal length of the whole system in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is ft. For example, DF is shown in FIG. 2 . By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (1) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, it is possible to suppress fluctuation in aberrations during focusing. Therefore, it is easy to achieve both high optical performance and an increase in magnification. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (1) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, it is possible to suppress an increase in total length of the lens system. Therefore, it is easy to achieve both an increase in magnification and reduction in size and weight. Further, by not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (1) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, the lens system advantageous for autofocus can be obtained. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (1-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (1-2).

0.04< DF/ft< 0.4  (1)

0.05< DF/ft< 0.2  (1-1)

0.05< DF/ft< 0.15  (1-2)

In a case where a difference in the optical axis direction between a position of each lens group in the middle group GM in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end and a position thereof in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is set as an amount of zooming movement, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (2). Here, it is assumed that the amount of zooming movement of a lens group, of which the amount of zooming movement is maximum, among the lens groups in the middle group GM is DV. Further, it is assumed that a focal length of the whole system in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is fw. In the example of FIG. 1 , the lens group that has the maximum amount of zooming movement is the third lens group. For example, DV is shown in FIG. 2 . By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (2) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, the refractive power of the movable lens group in the middle group GM is prevented from becoming excessively strong. Therefore, it is easy to achieve both an increase in magnification and suppression of fluctuation in aberrations such as lateral chromatic aberration, field curvature, and distortion during zooming. Further, by not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (2) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, there is an advantage in reducing the diameter of the lens in the focusing group. As a result, it is possible to obtain a lens system advantageous for autofocus. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (2) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, the amount of zooming movement of the movable lens group can be suppressed. As a result, there is an advantage in achieving reduction in total length of the lens system and it is easy to achieve reduction in size. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (2-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (2-2).

2< DV/fw< 18  (2)

3.5< DV/fw< 15  (2-1)

5< DV/fw< 12  (2-2)

Assuming that a lateral magnification of the focusing group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βFt, and a combined lateral magnification of all lenses closer to the image side than the focusing group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βRt, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (3).

(1−βFt 2 )×βRt 2 is a ratio of the amount of image plane movement to the unit amount of movement of the focusing group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end, that is, a so-called shape magnification. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (3) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, it is possible to suppress an increase in total length of the lens system. Therefore, it is easy to achieve reduction in size and weight. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (3) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, it is possible to suppress fluctuation in aberrations during focusing. Therefore, it is easy to achieve both high optical performance and an increase in magnification. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (3-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (3-2).

0.5<(1−β Ft 2 )×β Rt 2 <5  (3)

0.6<(1−β Ft 2 )×β Rt 2 <3  (3-1)

0.7<(1−β Ft 2 )×β Rt 2 <2  (3-2)

It is preferable that the middle group GM includes at least one movable lens group that has a negative refractive power. Hereinafter, the movable lens group that has a negative refractive power is referred to as a “negative movable lens group”. In a configuration in which the middle group GM includes at least one negative movable lens group, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (4). Here, βMnw is defined as follows depending on the case. In a case where a plurality of the negative movable lens groups are continuously disposed in the middle group GM, it is assumed that a combined lateral magnification of the plurality of the negative movable lens groups continuously disposed in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is βMnw. In a case where the plurality of negative movable lens groups are not continuously disposed in the middle group GM, it is assumed that a lateral magnification of any one of the negative movable lens groups in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is βMnw. That is, in a case where a plurality of negative movable lens groups are not continuously disposed in the middle group GM, it is preferable that at least one negative movable lens group in the middle group GM satisfies Conditional Expression (4). By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (4) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, the amount of movement of the negative movable lens group relating to Conditional Expression (4) during zooming can be suppressed. As a result, there is an advantage in achieving reduction in total length of the lens system and it is easy to achieve reduction in size. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (4) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, it is easy to correct distortion, lateral chromatic aberration, and the like at the wide angle end. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (4-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (4-2).

−0.5<β Mnw<− 0.05  (4)

−0.4<β Mnw <−0.1  (4-1)

−0.3<β Mnw <−0.15  (4-2)

For example, in the example of FIG. 1 , the negative movable lens group in the middle group GM is only the third lens group G 3 , and there is no plurality of negative movable lens groups continuously disposed in the middle group GM. Therefore, in the example of FIG. 1 , the lateral magnification of the third lens group G 3 in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is βMnw. On the other hand, in Example 4 to be described later, the negative movable lens group in the middle group GM is the second lens group G 2 and the third lens group G 3 , and the two lens groups are continuously disposed. Therefore, in Example 4, the combined lateral magnification of the second lens group G 2 and the third lens group G 3 in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is βMnw. The βMnt of Conditional Expression (5) described below can be considered in the same manner.

In a configuration in which the middle group GM includes at least one negative movable lens group, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (5). Here, βMnt is defined as follows depending on the case. In a case where a plurality of negative movable lens groups are continuously disposed in the middle group GM, a combined lateral magnification of the plurality of negative movable lens groups continuously disposed in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βMnt. In a case where the plurality of negative movable lens groups are not continuously disposed in the middle group GM, a lateral magnification of any one of the negative movable lens groups in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βMnt. That is, in a case where a plurality of negative movable lens groups are not continuously disposed in the middle group GM, it is preferable that at least one negative movable lens group in the middle group GM satisfies Conditional Expression (5). By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (5) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, the amount of movement of the negative movable lens group relating to Conditional Expression (5) during zooming can be suppressed. As a result, there is an advantage in achieving reduction in total length of the lens system and it is easy to achieve reduction in size. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (5) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, the zoom magnification carried by the negative movable lens group relating to Conditional Expression (5) is prevented from becoming excessively large. Therefore, the refractive power of the negative movable lens group relating to Conditional Expression (5) is prevented from becoming excessively strong. Therefore, it is easy to correct spherical aberration, longitudinal chromatic aberration, and the like, especially at the telephoto end. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (5-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (5-2).

−24 <βMnt <−2  (5)

−18 <βMnt <−2.5  (5-1)

−12 <βMnt <−3.3  (5-2)

In a configuration in which the middle group GM includes at least one negative movable lens group, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (6). Here, it is assumed that a focal length of the negative movable lens group that has a strongest refractive power among the negative movable lens groups in the middle group GM is fMn1. Further, it is assumed that a focal length of the final lens group GE is fE. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (6) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, the refractive power of the final lens group GE is prevented from becoming excessively weak. Therefore, it is easy to correct distortion and lateral chromatic aberration. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (6) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, it is possible to suppress the amount of movement during zooming of the negative movable lens group that has the strongest refractive power among the negative movable lens groups in the middle group GM. Therefore, there is an advantage in achieving reduction in total length of the lens system and it is easy to achieve reduction in size. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (6-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (6-2).

0.02<| fMn 1/ fE|< 0.2  (6)

0.025<| fMn 1/ fE|< 0.15  (6-1)

0.03 <|fMn 1 /fE |<0.1  (6-2)

It is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expressions (4), (5), and (6) at the same time. It is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies at least one of Conditional Expressions (4), (5), or (6) at the same time and further satisfies Conditional Expressions (4-1), (4-2), (5-1), (5-2), (6-1), and (6-2).

Assuming that a focal length of the focusing group is fF, and a focal length of the final lens group GE is fE, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (7). By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (7) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, the refractive power of the final lens group GE is prevented from becoming excessively weak. Therefore, it is easy to correct distortion and lateral chromatic aberration. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (7) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, the amount of movement of the focusing group during focusing can be suppressed. As a result, there is an advantage in achieving reduction in total length of the lens system and it is easy to achieve reduction in size. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (7-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (7-2).

0.04<| fF/fE|< 0.4  (7)

0.05<| fF/fE|< 0.3  (7-1)

0.07<| fF/fE|< 0.2  (7-2)

It is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expressions (4), (5), and (7) at the same time. It is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies at least one of Conditional Expressions (4), (5), or (7) at the same time and further satisfies Conditional Expressions (4-1), (4-2), (5-1), (5-2), (7-1), and (7-2).

Regarding the total length of the lens system, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (8). Here, it is assumed that a sum of a back focal length of the whole system at an air conversion distance and a distance on an optical axis from a lens surface closest to the object side in the first lens group G 1 to a lens surface closest to the image side in the final lens group GE in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is TTL. Further, it is assumed that a focal length of the whole system in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is ft. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (8) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, it is possible to suppress an increase in field curvature. Therefore, it is easy to suppress fluctuation in aberrations during zooming and reduce the size and weight. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (8) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, it is possible to suppress an increase in total length of the lens system. Therefore, it is easy to achieve both an increase in magnification and reduction in size and weight. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (8-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (8-2).

0.5< TTL/ft< 3  (8)

0.5< TTL/ft< 1.8  (8-1)

0.5< TTL/ft< 1.2  (8-2)

In a case where a difference in the optical axis direction between a position of each lens group in the middle group GM in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end and a position thereof in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is set as an amount of zooming movement, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (9). Here, it is assumed that the amount of zooming movement of a lens group, of which the amount of zooming movement is maximum, among the lens groups in the middle group GM is DV, and a maximum image height is Ymax. It is assumed that a focal length of the whole system in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is ft, and a focal length of the whole system in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is fw. ft/fw corresponds to the maximum zoom magnification. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (9) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, the refractive power of the lens group that has the maximum amount of zooming movement among the lens groups in the middle group GM is prevented from becoming excessively strong. Therefore, it is easy to suppress fluctuation in aberrations such as lateral chromatic aberration, field curvature, and distortion during zooming. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (9) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, it is possible to suppress the amount of zooming movement of the lens group that has the maximum amount of zooming movement among the lens groups in the middle group GM. Therefore, there is an advantage in achieving reduction in total length of the lens system and it is easy to achieve reduction in size. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (9-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (9-2).

5< DV/{Y max×log( ft/fw )}<15  (9)

5.5< DV/{Y max×log( ft/fw )}<12  (9-1)

6< DV/{Y max×log( ft/fw )}<10  (9-2)

Regarding the amount of movement of the focusing group, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (10). Here, it is assumed that a difference in an optical axis direction between a position of the focusing group in a state in which an infinite distance object is in focus at a telephoto end and a position of the focusing group in a state in which a lateral magnification of a whole system at the telephoto end is −0.1 times is DF. Further, it is assumed that a focal length of the focusing group is fF. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (10) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, the refractive power of the focusing group is prevented from becoming excessively weak. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in amount of movement of the focusing group in a case where the object distance changes, especially at the telephoto end. As a result, there is an advantage in achieving reduction in size. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (10) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, the refractive power of the focusing group is prevented from becoming excessively strong. Therefore, it is possible to suppress fluctuation in spherical aberration and field curvature occur especially in a case where the object distance changes at the telephoto end. As a result, there is an advantage in achieving an increase in magnification. Alternatively, by not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (10) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, the amount of movement of the focusing group in a case where the object distance changes at the telephoto end is prevented from becoming excessively large. As a result, there is an advantage in achieving reduction in size. The term “object distance” in the present specification is a distance on the optical axis between the zoom lens and the object that is a subject of the zoom lens. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (10-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (10-2).

0.1<| DF/fF|< 1  (10)

0.12<| DF/fF|< 0.9  (10-1)

0.15<| DF/fF|< 0.8  (10-2)

In a case where a movable lens group closest to the object side among movable lens groups in the middle group GM is set as a leading movable lens group, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (11). Here, it is assumed that a focal length of the first lens group G 1 is fl. fMVw is defined as follows depending on the case. It is assumed that a combined focal length of a movable lens group line in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is fMVw, in a case where the middle group GM includes the movable lens group line consisting of a plurality of movable lens groups that include the leading movable lens group and are continuously disposed. It is assumed that a focal length of the leading movable lens group is fMVw, in a case where the middle group GM does not include the movable lens group line. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (11) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, the refractive power of the first lens group G 1 is prevented from becoming excessively strong. Therefore, it is easy to suppress spherical aberration and longitudinal chromatic aberration especially at the telephoto end. Further, by not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (11) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, the refractive power of the movable lens group relating to Conditional Expression (11) is prevented from becoming excessively weak. As a result, it is possible to suppress the amount of movement of the movable lens group during zooming. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (11) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, the refractive power of the first lens group G 1 is prevented from becoming excessively weak. Therefore, there are advantages in suppressing an increase in effective diameter of the first lens group G 1 and suppressing an increase in total length of the lens system. As a result, it is easy to achieve reduction in size and weight. Further, by not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (11) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, the refractive power of the movable lens group relating to Conditional Expression (11) is prevented from becoming excessively strong. Therefore, it is easy to suppress fluctuation in aberrations such as field curvature, distortion, and lateral chromatic aberration during zooming. From the above, by satisfying Conditional Expression (11), there is an advantage in suppressing fluctuation in aberrations during zooming, and it is easy to achieve both an increase in magnification and reduction in size and weight. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (11-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (11-2).

−0.4 <fMVw/fl<− 0.03  (11)

−0.25 <fMVw/fl<− 0.03  (11-1)

−0.16 <fMVw/fl<− 0.03  (11-2)

For example, in the example of FIG. 1 , the second lens group G 2 closest to the object side in the middle group GM is a movable lens group, the third lens group G 3 continuously disposed in the second lens group G 2 is a movable lens group, and the fourth lens group G 4 continuously disposed in the third lens group G 3 is a stationary lens group. Therefore, in the example of FIG. 1 , the leading movable lens group is the second lens group G 2 , and a movable lens group line consists of the second lens group G 2 and the third lens group G 3 . In the example of FIG. 1 , the combined focal length of the second lens group G 2 and the third lens group G 3 in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is fMVw.

Unlike the example of FIG. 1 , the middle group GM consists of the second lens group G 2 , the third lens group G 3 , the fourth lens group G 4 , and the fifth lens group G 5 . In a lens system in which the second lens group G 2 , the third lens group G 3 , and the fourth lens group G 4 are movable lens groups and the fifth lens group G 5 is a stationary lens group, the movable lens group line consists of the second lens group G 2 , the third lens group G 3 , and the fourth lens group G 4 . That is, the “movable lens group line” in the present specification includes the leading movable lens group and consists of the largest number of movable lens groups continuously disposed.

In Example 8 to be described later, the second lens group G 2 closest to the object side in the middle group GM is a movable lens group, and the third lens group G 3 disposed continuous to the second lens group G 2 is a stationary lens group. Therefore, in Example 8, the middle group GM is a lens system that does not include the movable lens group line, and in Example 8, the focal length of the second lens group G 2 , which is the leading movable lens group, is fMVw. The movable lens group line can be similarly considered in Conditional Expression (12) described below.

In a case where the movable lens group closest to the object side is the leading movable lens group among the movable lens groups in the middle group GM, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (12). Here, βMVt is defined as follows depending on the case. It is assumed that a combined lateral magnification of a movable lens group line in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βMVt, in a case where the middle group GM includes the movable lens group line consisting of a plurality of movable lens groups that include the leading movable lens group and are continuously disposed. It is assumed that a lateral magnification of the leading movable lens group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βMVt, in a case where the middle group GM does not include the movable lens group line. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (12) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, the zoom magnification carried by the movable lens group relating to Conditional Expression (12) is prevented from becoming excessively small. Therefore, it is easy to achieve an increase in magnification. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (12) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, the zoom magnification carried by the movable lens group relating to Conditional Expression (12) is prevented from becoming excessively large. Therefore, the refractive power of the movable lens group relating to Conditional Expression (12) is prevented from becoming excessively strong. Therefore, it is easy to correct spherical aberration, longitudinal chromatic aberration, and the like, especially at the telephoto end. From the above, by satisfying Conditional Expression (12), it is easy to achieve both suppression of fluctuation in aberrations during zooming and an increase in magnification at the same time. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (12-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (12-2).

−20 <βMVt <−1.1  (12)

−15 <βMVt <−2.5  (12-1)

−12 <βMVt <−4  (12-2)

It is preferable that the middle group GM includes at least one stationary lens group. In a configuration in which the middle group GM includes at least one stationary lens group, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (13). Here, it is assumed that a lateral magnification of the final lens group GE in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βE. By satisfying Conditional Expression (13), it is easy to correct the distortion and lateral chromatic aberration. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (13-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (13-2).

1<β E <2  (13)

1 <βE <1.7  (13-1)

1 <βE <1.4  (13-2)

In a configuration in which the middle group GM includes at least one stationary lens group, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (14). Here, it is assumed that a lateral magnification of the stationary lens group closest to the image side among the stationary lens groups in the middle group GM in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the telephoto end is βMS. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (14) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, it is possible to suppress aberrations generated in the stationary lens group. As a result, there is an advantage in reducing spherical aberration and longitudinal chromatic aberration. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (14) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, it is possible to suppress an increase in diameter of the luminous flux incident on the lens group closer to the image side than the stationary lens group. As a result, there is an advantage in reducing the diameter of the lens. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (14-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (14-2).

−1.8<1 /βMS <1.4  (14)

−1.2<1 /βMS <1  (14-1)

−0.8<1 /βMS <0.6  (14-2)

It is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expressions (13) and (14) at the same time. Then, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expressions (13) and (14) at the same time and further satisfies at least one of Conditional Expressions (13-1), (13-2), (14-1), or (14-2).

Further, at the wide angle end, it is preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (15). Here, each symbol is defined as follows. It is assumed that a lateral magnification of the focusing group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is βFw. It is assumed that a combined lateral magnification of all lenses closer to the image side than the focusing group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is βRw. γ=(1−βFw 2 )×βRw 2 . γ is a ratio of the amount of image plane movement to the unit amount of movement of the focusing group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end, that is, a so-called shape magnification. Further, it is assumed that a focal length of the focusing group is fF. It is assumed that a combined focal length of all lenses closer to the image side than the focusing group in a state in which the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is fRw. It is assumed that a distance from an exit pupil position to an image plane Sim in a case where the infinite distance object is in focus at the wide angle end is De. A sign of De is positive in a case where the exit pupil position is closer to the object side than the image plane Sim, and is negative in a case where the exit pupil position is closer to the image side than the image plane Sim. It is assumed that a maximum image height is Ymax. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (15) to be equal to or less than the lower limit, there is an advantage in suppressing fluctuation in aberrations during focusing while maintaining reduction in size. By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (15) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, there is an advantage in suppressing fluctuation in size of the image during focusing. From the above, by satisfying Conditional Expression (15), there is an advantage in achieving both reduction in size and suppression of fluctuation in aberrations during focusing. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (15-1), and it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (15-2).

−0.1<{β Fw /( fF ×γ)−1/(β Rw×fRw )−(1/ De )}× Y max<0.1  (15)

−0.075<{β Fw /( fF ×γ)−1/(β Rw×fRw )−(1/ De )}× Y max<0.075  (15-1)

−0.05<{β Fw /( fF ×γ)−1/(β Rw×fRw )−(1/ De )}× Y max<0.05  (15-2)

Assuming that the refractive index of the negative lens in the first lens group G 1 at the d line is Nd1n, it is preferable that the first lens group G 1 includes at least one negative lens satisfying Conditional Expression (16). By satisfying Conditional Expression (16), there is an advantage in achieving reduction in size of the first lens group G 1 . It is more preferable that at least one negative lens in the first lens group G 1 satisfies Conditional Expression (16-1). By not allowing the corresponding value of Conditional Expression (16-1) to be equal to or greater than the upper limit, the specific gravity of the material of the negative lens is prevented from becoming excessively large. As a result, there is an advantage in weight reduction. In order to obtain more favorable characteristics, it is yet more preferable that the zoom lens satisfies Conditional Expression (16-2).

1.9 <Nd 1 n   (16)

1.9 <Nd 1 n <2.1  (16-1)

1.92 <Nd 1 n <2.06  (16-2)

It is preferable that the first lens group G 1 includes at least two positive lenses. In such a case, it is easy to correct spherical aberration at the telephoto end.

It is preferable that the focusing group is disposed closest to the image side in the middle group GM. In such a case, the diameter of the luminous flux incident on the focusing group can be reduced. As a result, there is an advantage in achieving reduction in size.

Two preferred embodiments in which the above-mentioned configuration and conditional expression are considered are described below. The first aspect is a zoom lens that consists of, in order from the object side to the image side, a first lens group G 1 having a positive refractive power, a middle group GM including and a plurality of lens groups in which the spacings between adjacent lens groups change during zooming, and a final lens group GE, where a focusing group that moves during focusing is disposed in the middle group GM and satisfies Conditional Expression (1).

The second aspect is a zoom lens that consists of, in order from the object side to the image side, a first lens group G 1 having a positive refractive power, a middle group GM including and a plurality of lens groups in which the spacings between adjacent lens groups change during zooming, and a final lens group GE, where a focusing group that moves during focusing is disposed in the middle group GM and satisfies Conditional Expression (2).

The example shown in FIG. 1 is an example, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the technology of the present disclosure. For example, the number of lenses included in each lens group may be different from the number shown in FIG. 1 . Further, in the example of FIG. 1 , the middle group GM consists of four lens groups. However, the number of lens groups included in the middle group GM can be arbitrarily set. For example, the middle group GM may be configured to consist of three lens groups.

In the following description, three configuration examples of the middle group GM and the final lens group GE of the zoom lens of the present disclosure will be given. In the following description, a movable lens group that has a positive refractive power is referred to as a “positive movable lens group”, a movable lens group that has a negative refractive power is referred to as a “negative movable lens group”, a stationary lens group that has a positive refractive power is referred to as a “positive stationary lens group”, and a stationary lens group that has a negative refractive power is referred to as a “negative stationary lens group”.

In the first configuration example, the middle group GM consists of, in order from the object side to the image side, a positive movable lens group, a negative movable lens group, a positive stationary lens group, and a positive movable lens group, and the final lens group GE consists of a group of negative stationary lens groups. In the first configuration example, the negative movable lens group has a function of the main zooming effect. By disposing a positive movable lens group between the negative movable lens group and the first lens group G 1 and moving the positive movable lens group during zooming, there is an advantage in suppressing fluctuation in spherical aberration during zooming.

In the second configuration example, the middle group GM consists of, in order from the object side to the image side, a negative movable lens group, a negative movable lens group, a positive stationary lens group, and a positive movable lens group, and the final lens group GE consists of a group of positive stationary lens groups. In the second configuration example, the two negative movable lens groups share the main zooming effect and move during zooming. Therefore, fluctuation in field curvature due to the zooming can be suppressed.

In the third configuration example, the middle group GM consists of, in order from the object side to the image side, a negative movable lens group, a positive stationary lens group, and a positive movable lens group, and the final lens group GE consists of a group of positive stationary lens groups. In the third configuration example, zooming is performed by the negative movable lens group, and focusing is performed by the positive movable lens group correcting fluctuation in image plane position during zooming.

The above-mentioned preferred configurations and available configurations may be optional combinations, and it is preferable to selectively adopt the configurations in accordance with required specification. It should be noted that the conditional expressions that the zoom lens of the present disclosure preferably satisfies are not limited to the conditional expressions described in the form of the expression, and the lower limit and the upper limit are selected from the preferable and more preferable, more preferable, and yet more preferable conditional expressions. The conditional expressions may include all conditional expressions obtained through optional combinations.

Next, examples of the zoom lens of the present disclosure will be described, with reference to the drawings. The reference numerals attached to the lenses in the cross-sectional views of each example are used independently for each example in order to avoid complication of description and drawings due to an increase in number of digits of the reference numerals. Therefore, even in a case where common reference numerals are attached in the drawings of different examples, components do not necessarily have a common configuration.