Telephoto 96mm Tetraprism LensUpdated 17 days ago
Everything you need to set up, mount, and start shooting with the 96mm. SANDMARC's most powerful iPhone telephoto lens.
▶ Video Tutorial
Watch the full getting started video for a guided walkthrough of the 96mm Telephoto Lens.
1 Compatibility
The 96mm is compatible with Pro and Pro Max models only. Standard iPhone models do not include a telephoto camera.
| Model | Native Telephoto | Equivalent Focal Length |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 Pro / Pro Max | 4× & 8× | 384mm (4×) · 768mm (8×) |
| iPhone 16 Pro / 15 Pro Max | 5× | 480mm (5×) |
2 Specifications
| Lens | 96mm |
| Magnification | 4× |
| Weight | 9 oz (255g) |
| Height | 3.5″ (88.9mm) |
| Diameter | 46mm |
| Inner Thread | 17mm |
3 First Time Setup
From unboxing to first shot in under five minutes.
Fit your iPhone into the included SANDMARC case. Press firmly at each corner until it clicks into place. Make sure you have the case matched to your exact iPhone model — it's precision-cut for each one.
Remove the front and rear protective caps before mounting. Store them in the included lens pouch when not in use — the pouch doubles as a microfiber cleaning cloth.
Pair the 96mm with the free SANDMARC app, designed specifically for our lens ecosystem. Full manual control over focus, exposure, and shutter speed. Select your lens directly in the app and start shooting.
Download on the App StoreHold the 96mm over the telephoto opening on the case. Carefully align the threading, then twist clockwise with smooth, even pressure — about two full turns. Do not overtighten.
Open the SANDMARC Camera app, select the 96mm from the lens menu, and set zoom to 4× (or 5× on iPhone 16 Pro models). This activates the telephoto sensor the 96mm is designed for.
4 Mounting Options
Two mounting options are included. Choose based on your shooting style.
The SANDMARC case features aluminum threading that matches the lens barrel. Secure, stable, and built for repeated use without wear.
Attach the lens to the clip mount and slide it over your iPhone's telephoto camera. No case required — fast to set up and remove.
Threads onto the front of the 96mm, giving you access to SANDMARC's full filter lineup — ND, CPL, and more.
5 Shooting Tips
Practical tips for sharp, professional results from your first shoot.
Set zoom to 5× (or 4× on iPhone 17 Pro) before composing. This ensures you're on the telephoto sensor the lens is designed for.
At high zoom levels, minor movement is amplified. Rest your elbows on a surface or use a tripod, especially in low light.
At telephoto distances, autofocus can miss. Tap your subject on screen to lock focus and exposure before shooting.
Wipe the front element with the included lens pouch before shooting for maximum sharpness and minimal flare.
The 96mm produces genuine background blur. No Portrait Mode needed — telephoto compression handles subject separation naturally.
Replace both lens caps when not in use and store in the protective pouch. The optical glass benefits from consistent care.
6 72mm vs 96mm Tetraprism
Both lenses share the same Tetraprism optical design. Here's how they differ.
| 72mm Tetraprism | 96mm Tetraprism | |
|---|---|---|
| Added magnification | 3× | 4× |
| Max zoom (17 Pro) | Up to 24× | Up to 32× |
| Ideal subjects | Wildlife, landscapes, sports | Extreme reach, astronomy, surveillance |
| Background separation | Stronger | Strongest |
| Best for | Maximum reach upgrade | Professional extreme telephoto |
7 What's Included
Everything needed to start shooting is in the box.
- 96mm Telephoto Lens
- SANDMARC iPhone Case
- Clip Mount
- Filter Mount
- Lens Pouch (doubles as microfiber cleaning cloth)
- Front & Rear Lens Caps