In one aspect, an image sensor is provided which includes an interlayer
insulation film formed over a substrate including a light receiving
device, a color filter formed over the interlayer insulation film, a
protection film having a flat top face formed over the interlayer
insulation film and the color filter, a buffer film having a convex top
face formed over the protection film, and a microlens formed on the
convex top face of the buffer film. The microlens has a refractive index
which is greater than a refractive index of the buffer film and has a
convex top face and a concave bottom face, where the concave bottom face
of the microlens contacts the convex top face of the buffer film.