A variable focal length lens apparatus is provided with a variable focal length lens in which a focusing position periodically changes in response to a drive signal that is input; a light source that emits detection light at an object via the variable focal length lens; an photodetector that receives the detection light that is reflected by the object, and outputs a light detection signal; a signal processor that, based on the light detection signal that is input, outputs a light emission signal that is synchronized to a focusing time point where the detection light is focused on a surface of the object; an illuminator that provides pulse illumination to the object with illuminating light, based on the light emission signal that is input; and an image capturer that captures an image of the object through the variable focal length lens.