Mark Ellington
Tamron 60mm f/2.0 Macro Lens for Nikon
Introduction
The Tamron AF 60mm f/2.0 SP DI II LD IF 1:1 Macro Lens for Nikon digital SLR cameras is a noteworthy addition to the world of macro photography. Manufactured by Tamron, a well-respected name in the optics industry, this lens is designed specifically for APS-C DSLRs. It stands out as the world’s first f/2.0 macro lens for these camera systems, making it an ideal choice for both macro and portrait photography enthusiasts.
Product Overview
The Tamron 60mm f/2.0 Macro Lens combines advanced optical technology with user-friendly features, making it suitable for both amateur photographers and seasoned professionals. With its impressive working distance and full-time manual control mechanism, this lens is tailored to enhance your photography experience.
Appearance and Design
The lens boasts a sleek and modern design, characterized by its durable construction and elegant finish. The materials used are of high quality, ensuring longevity while maintaining a lightweight feel. One unique design feature is the internal focusing mechanism, which allows for a compact form factor without protruding elements when focusing. This not only aids in achieving higher levels of versatility but also enhances user experience by preventing dust entry.
Key Features and Specifications
- Model: G005-N
- Part Number: AFG005NII-700
- Color: Multi
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.0
- Focal Length: 60mm (93mm equivalent on APS-C DSLRs)
- 1:1 Macro Magnification
- Longest working distance in its class (100mm)
- Two LD (Low Dispersion) Glass elements
- Full-time manual control mechanism
- Internal focusing
User Experience
In various shooting scenarios, the Tamron 60mm f/2.0 Macro Lens excels at delivering stunning detail and clarity. During macro photography, the 1:1 magnification allows for capturing intricate details of flowers, insects, and other small subjects with remarkable sharpness. The lens performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions due to its f/2.0 aperture, making it suitable for portrait photography as well.
While testing in different environments, the lens demonstrated impressive color accuracy and contrast. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle for extended periods, a crucial aspect for macrophotographers who often need to stabilize their shots. The full-time manual control adds flexibility, allowing for fine adjustments in focus as necessary.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- World’s first f/2.0 macro lens for APS-C DSLRs.
- Excellent build quality with a sleek design.
- 1:1 macro magnification for detailed close-up shots.
- Fast and bright f/2.0 maximum aperture.
- Lightweight and easy to handle.
- Internal focusing mechanism prevents dust entry.
Cons:
- Limited compatibility with full-frame cameras.
- Autofocus may be slower in low-light scenarios compared to some competitors.
Conclusion
Overall, the Tamron AF 60mm f/2.0 Macro Lens for Nikon DSLR cameras is a fantastic choice for photographers looking to expand their macro and portrait capabilities. With its stellar optics, thoughtful design, and user-friendly features, it stands out as a reliable option in the market. While it has some limitations regarding low-light autofocus and full-frame compatibility, the advantages it offers in terms of image quality and versatility make it a worthy investment for anyone serious about macro photography.
