Tamron SP 45mm F1.8 Di VC USD

Canon EF

Review

The Tamron SP 45mm F1.8 Di VC USD is an interesting offering for Canon EF mount users looking for a versatile prime lens. This lens strikes a balance between portrait and standard focal lengths, making it a suitable option for a variety of shooting situations, from street photography to landscapes and everything in between.

Build and Design

Tamron has put a considerable amount of effort into the construction of the SP 45mm. The lens features a solid build quality, with a premium feel that one would expect from the SP line. It includes a weather-sealed design which adds a layer of protection against the elements, an essential feature for outdoor shooting. The focus and aperture rings are well-placed and provide a satisfying amount of resistance, making adjustments easy and precise.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the lens does not disappoint. With a maximum aperture of F1.8, it allows for beautiful backgrounds with a creamy bokeh that's pleasing to the eye. Images are sharp across the frame, even at wider apertures, which is a quality sought after by serious photographers. This lens also performs admirably in low-light conditions, making it an excellent choice for indoor and evening shoots.

Vibration Compensation

One standout feature of the Tamron SP 45mm is its Vibration Compensation (VC) technology. This image stabilization system helps reduce the impact of camera shake, allowing for slower shutter speeds while maintaining sharp images, especially useful for handheld photography. This feature can be a game-changer, particularly for those who prefer shooting without a tripod.

Autofocus System

The autofocus system in the Tamron SP 45mm is generally fast and accurate, utilizing a ring-type USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) motor. While its performance is impressive, some users may find that it does occasionally hunt for focus in low-light situations or when tracking moving subjects, particularly compared to the faster autofocus systems found in some native Canon lenses.

Compatibility

As a Canon EF lens, it's compatible with a range of Canon cameras, including both full-frame and crop-sensor models. This makes it a flexible choice for many photographers, accommodating various styles and genres of photography.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with weather sealing
• Sharp images across the frame
• Gorgeous bokeh thanks to the F1.8 aperture
• Vibration Compensation for improved stability
• Versatile focal length suitable for various photography styles

Cons

• Autofocus may occasionally hunt in low-light conditions
• Slightly heavier compared to other prime lenses in its class

Verdict

In conclusion, the Tamron SP 45mm F1.8 Di VC USD for Canon EF mount offers a solid blend of performance, build quality, and versatility. While it boasts impressive optical performance and useful features like Vibration Compensation, it is not without its minor drawbacks, particularly in autofocus speed in challenging lighting conditions. Overall, for photographers looking to expand their prime lens collection with a reliable and beautifully made lens, the Tamron SP 45mm is a worthy consideration.