The invention relates to an eyepiece-connected taking optical system well fit for TV camera heads using a small-format imaging device. The taking optical system comprises a field direction turning member 1P, 2P, a positive first group and a negative second group. The first group comprises a positive cemented lens convex on its object side, a positive single lens convex on its object side and a positive cemented lens convex on its object side, and the second group comprises a negative single lens. Focus adjustment is implemented by changing a spacing t2 between the first group and the second group. The taking optical system satisfies condition (1) for defining the position of the front focus with respect to the taking lens, condition (2) for defining the refracting power of each lens group, condition (3) for defining the imaging magnification of the second group, and condition (4) for defining the profile of refracting power in the first group.