Tamron SP AF 28-75mm F2.8 XR Di Macro (motorized) Review

General information

This is a zoom lens manufactured by Tamron and the lens was released 2008.
The lens belongs to the category standard zoom lenses, a normal lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.

The lens has macro-properties but is unable to reproduce things in their real size (otherwise called '1:1'). You should therefor consider taking the term 'macro' with a pinch of salt and if the macro-possibilities you are looking for you should perhaps look at other options.

Product description from Tamron

At launch 2008 Tamron wrote this regarding Tamron SP AF 28-75mm F2.8 XR Di Macro (motorized):

"The Tamron SP designation is reserved for lenses developed with special emphasis on extraordinary photographic performance. Engineers are free to innovate in an uncommon atmosphere where optical performance comes before price, resulting in lenses that satisfy the demands of discerning photographers.

High resolution full-frame digital SLRs demand the optical quality for which the SP 28-75mm F/2.8 XR Di is famous. Another in Tamron´s selection of fast and constant F2.8 maximum aperture optics, its speed benefits photographers in several ways, including the ability to render cluttered backgrounds well out of focus, added low-light shooting freedom and a brighter viewfinder image. Featuring XR (Extra Refractive Index) and LD (Low Dispersion) glass in an optical formula employing 16 elements and 14 groups—assuring sharpness, optimal contrast and color accuracy, rendering striking images. Sophisticated aspherical element design and internal focus contribute to barrel size that belies a typically large F2.8 optic. With both an ideal picture angle range, fast aperture and outstanding optical properties, it´s no wonder that so many SP 28-75mm F/2.8 lenses can be found in the bags of noted wedding and corporate shooters.

The smallest and lightest standard lens of its class. Its luminosity makes ” Available Light” photography an absolute pleasure. It belongs to the Super performance ( SP) class of Tamron lenses distinguished by ultra high optical and mechanical quality. It has very good resolution capability, strongly reduced light fall off up to the edges, minimized chromatic aberration and very good stray light behavior. Sharp and excellent pictures are the result. Furthermore, the depth of field which is rather wide due to the construction of the digital image sensors can be reduced by the big diaphragm aperture. This leads to new creative possibilities (e.g., motive stands out in front of a dramatically attractive blurred background).

The designation “Di” (Digitally Integrated Design) marks a generation of lenses, which have been specially adapted to the higher requirements of digital SLR cameras (APS-C and full frame).

Please note: From June 2008 available with a „built-in“ motor in order to also serve users of new Nikon cameras which require a „built-in“ such as the Nikon D40, D40X and D60. The new version (Model A09NII) replaces the previous version (Model A09N). "


Compatibility, autofocus and focal length

This lens is constructed to fit all models of Nikon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.

The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.

The lens has a focal length of 28-75 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/2,8.

This aperture value indicates that the lens is very bright.  This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues.

A feature worth commenting, which is also related to lens brightness, is that the brightness and maximum aperture-value remains constant regardless of focal length used. This makes it easier for you as a photographer. No matter if you are have the focus ring and focal length at 28 mm or at 75 mm the aperture value can be f/2,8.

The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds. Since the lens is bright, with good aperture value, the lack of image stabilization might not be that big of a deal, although a image stabilizer is always an advantage to have.

Filter and Lens Hood

The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 67 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.

If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "DA09".

Images of Tamron SP AF 28-75mm F2.8 XR Di Macro (motorized)

In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.

Things to consider before buying

Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.

  • The price (more info)
  • The lens brightness, f/2,8
  • Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
  • Works on all sensor types
  • Has a built-in autofocus motor
  • A lens hood is included
  • The lens is called 'Macro' but can not reproduce at a scale of 1:1
  • The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Tamron SP AF 28-75mm F2.8 XR Di Macro (motorized).

Build Quality     
Image Quality     
Autofocus     
Sharpness     
Versatility     
Value     
Overall rating 3 of 5

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