Tamron 70-200/2.8 LD IF Di Macro Review
General information
This is a zoom lens manufactured by Tamron and the lens was released 2008.
The lens belongs to the category
telephoto zoom lenses, a telephoto 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 70-200/2.8 LD IF Di Macro:
"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.
Tamron´s SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro exemplifies the second of the two zoom focal lengths considered essential by many professionals. At just 7.6 inches long and weighing only 40.6 oz., long days of shooting become easier and extraordinary optical design and exacting manufacturing assure the image quality that makes long shoots rewarding. A fast and constant F2.8 maximum aperture, renders cluttered backgrounds well out of focus, extends low-light shooting freedom and enables a brighter viewfinder image. Its IF (Internal Focus) mechanism maintains a fixed barrel length throughout the focusing range and superb optics, featuring LD (Low Dispersion) glass to assure remarkable image quality.
The 70-200mm F/2,8 complements the extremely successful concept of the Tamron 28-75mm F/2,8 and extends the focal length range to 200mm. Particular attention was placed on top quality combined with high luminosity and compactness as is the case with the award-winning 28-75mm and * SP lenses in general.
In spite of its compact construction, the 70-200mm is packed full of features, which permit creative picture taking in all situations. The professional image quality also does justice to demanding photographers. Extreme sharpness, resolution and brilliance are its trademarks. Moreover, it is the best of its class in the categories minimum focus distance (only 0.95 m in the entire focal length range) and a magnification ratio of (1:3,1).
When using full frame cameras the medium tele-range of 70 mm to 200 mm is completely covered. When used together with APS-C sized cameras, the lens offers an equivalent of 109 mm to 310 mm arises (referring on the angle of view of the full frame) **. Whether for nature, sport or people-photography, the extraordinary optical performance will inspire you.
* SP (super performance) high-capacity lenses of excellent optical and mechanical quality.
** Tamron uses a factor of 1.55 for the conversion to full frame.
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). "
Compatibility, autofocus and focal length
The lens is available for both Canon and Nikon cameras, but there are two different versions of this lens (one for each brand and mount) so it is important that you ask for and choose the right version when bying the lens.
This lens is constructed to fit all models of Canon and 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 70-200 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.
A positive thing is that this lens has a versitale zoom range, where the difference between 'maximum zoomed out' to 'maximum zoomed in' increases the lens versatility since you as a photographer easily can compose your picture without moving yourself physically.
- See compatible cameras and perceived/equivalent focal length
- See a full camera compatibility chart for Tamron 70-200/2.8 LD IF Di Macro
- Read more about focal length and your field of view
- Read more on the cameras impact on the perceived focal length
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. Lenses with good aperture values and longer focal lengths, such as this lens, tend to be popular amongs sports and nature photographers.
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 70 mm or at 200 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 77 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 "HA001".
Tripod Mount
This lens is equipped with a tripod mount, which makes use of a tripod easier and more stable.
Images of Tamron 70-200/2.8 LD IF Di Macro
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 lens brightness, f/2,8
- Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
- An impressive focal range
- Works on all sensor types
- Has a built-in autofocus motor
- A lens hood is included
- A tripod mount 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
- Heavy (1150 gr)
Our Review Ratings
Time to grade Tamron 70-200/2.8 LD IF Di Macro.
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| Overall rating | 3 of 5 |
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