Mark Ellington
Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 Lens
In-Depth Review of the Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 Lens for Canon DSLRs: Performance & Value Uncovered
Introduction
The Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical (IF) Lens is a versatile standard zoom lens designed specifically for Canon DSLR cameras. Manufactured by Tamron, a well-known name in the photography industry, this lens aims to deliver exceptional performance at an attractive price point. With its constant f/2.8 aperture, it is intended for a variety of photography styles, including portraits, landscapes, and low-light situations.
Product Overview
This lens is part of Tamron’s SP (Super Performance) series, which is known for its high-quality craftsmanship and optical excellence. The lens features a compact and lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for both amateur and professional photographers who require a reliable and versatile lens for everyday use.
Appearance and Build Quality
The Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 lens boasts a sleek black finish, exuding a professional aesthetic. Its compact size and lightweight design (weighing only 430 grams) make it easy to carry for extended periods. The lens barrel is constructed from durable plastic, which helps keep the weight down while maintaining a solid feel. A notable design feature is the inclusion of a built-in petal-shaped lens hood that helps minimize flare and protects the front element. The lens also features a 7-blade circular aperture, providing beautiful bokeh in out-of-focus areas.
Key Features and Specifications
- Maximum Aperture: F/2.8
- Minimum Aperture: F/32
- Focal Length: 17-50mm
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 0.27m
- Lens Construction: 13 elements in 16 groups
- Weight: 430g
- 7 Circular Apertures for enhanced bokeh
- Compatible with Canon EOS Digital Rebel, 1D, 5D, and other models
Performance in Various Scenarios
In practical use, the Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 lens excels in a variety of shooting conditions. The constant f/2.8 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance, making it suitable for indoor photography and evening events. Portraits taken with this lens showcase stunning sharpness and pleasing background blur, thanks to the lens’s circular aperture design.
When shooting landscapes, the lens performs admirably, producing vibrant colors and good contrast. The minimum focusing distance of 0.27m enables impressive close-up shots with fine detail. Users will appreciate the fast autofocus capabilities, which are responsive and generally accurate, although some may find it slightly slower in low-light conditions.
However, like many lenses in this category, there is some noticeable distortion at the wide end (17mm), particularly in architectural photography. This can usually be corrected in post-processing, but it’s worth noting for those who prioritize straight lines in their images.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range
- Compact and lightweight design
- Excellent sharpness and color rendition
- Good close-up performance
- Affordable price point for the quality offered
Cons
- Some distortion at 17mm
- Autofocus can be slower in low-light conditions
- Build quality, while good, is primarily plastic
Conclusion
Overall, the Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 Lens for Canon DSLRs is an excellent option for photographers looking for a reliable and versatile zoom lens without breaking the bank. It combines a fast aperture, solid performance, and a lightweight design, making it suitable for a variety of shooting situations. While it does have some minor drawbacks, such as distortion at wide angles and autofocus performance in low light, the lens’s strengths far outweigh these issues. This lens is highly recommended for both enthusiasts and professionals seeking a dependable workhorse lens.
