A solid-state imager detects return light from a target, and generates an electrical signal corresponding to the return light. A controller processes the electrical signal into data indicative of the target during an imaging mode of operation. An imaging lens assembly captures, optically modifies and directs the return light over a field of view along an optical path onto the imager. The imaging lens assembly includes a variable liquid lens controlled by the controller for optically modifying the return light. The liquid lens has an entrance area and is located in close proximity to an aperture stop A plurality of solid lenses magnifies the aperture stop and has an entrance pupil larger in size than the aperture stop and the entrance area to increase throughput of the return light to the imager.