Mark Ellington
Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Lens for Sony
Introduction
The Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens is a versatile and high-performance lens tailored for Sony E APS-C mirrorless cameras. Released in January 2021, this lens is the world’s first high-speed standard zoom lens designed for APS-C sensors, boasting a focal length range of 17-70mm with a 4.1x zoom ratio. As a product of Tamron, a reputable manufacturer known for its innovative photographic equipment, this lens is intended for both amateur and professional photographers looking to elevate their imaging capabilities.
Product Overview
This lens features a robust optical construction of 16 elements arranged in 12 groups, which includes two Glass Molded Aspherical (GM) lens elements and one hybrid aspherical element. It is designed to deliver exceptional optical performance while being compact and lightweight, making it an excellent choice for a variety of photography genres, including landscape, portrait, and video shooting.
Appearance and Design
The Tamron 17-70mm lens showcases a sleek and professional design in an elegant black finish. It is constructed from high-quality materials that lend to its durability, making it suitable for outdoor use. Unique design elements include a moisture-resistant construction that protects against inclement weather and a fluorine coating that repels dirt and moisture, ensuring that the lens remains clean during shoots. The lens barrel features a smooth zoom mechanism and a comfortable grip, enhancing the user experience when switching focal lengths.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 17-70mm (equivalent to 25.5-105mm in 35mm format)
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.8 throughout the zoom range
- VC (Vibration Compensation) technology for stabilized shooting
- Minimum Object Distance: 7.5 inches at 17mm, 15.4 inches at 70mm
- Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating
- Compatible with Sony E APS-C mirrorless cameras
- Part Number: B070S
- Price: $599
Experience Using the Product
Using the Tamron 17-70mm lens in various scenarios has been a delightful experience. The f/2.8 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance, making it suitable for indoor events and evening shoots. The autofocus is fast and accurate, making it easy to capture candid moments without delay. The lens excels in landscape photography, delivering sharp and vibrant images across the zoom range.
In portrait photography, the bokeh produced by the lens is pleasing, allowing subjects to stand out against beautifully blurred backgrounds. The close focusing capability enhances versatility, making it possible to shoot detail-oriented images of flowers or small objects. Additionally, when shooting videos, the upgraded VC technology proves effective in minimizing camera shake, which is a significant advantage for videographers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High-speed f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range
- Excellent optical performance with minimal distortion
- Versatile focal length range suitable for various photography styles
- Moisture-resistant construction enhances durability
- Vibration Compensation improves stability in handheld shooting
Cons
- Price point may be higher compared to some competitors
- Weight may be slightly more than expected for a standard zoom lens
Conclusion
Overall, the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens for Sony E APS-C cameras is an outstanding addition to any photographer’s toolkit. Its combination of excellent optical performance, versatility, and advanced features makes it an exceptional choice for both photography and videography. While its price may be a consideration for some, the performance and quality it delivers justify the investment. For those seeking a reliable and high-quality standard zoom lens, the Tamron 17-70mm is highly recommended.
