Tamron SP AF 90mm F/2.8 Di Macro

Canon EF

Review

The Tamron SP AF 90mm F/2.8 Di Macro lens for Canon EF mount has long been a favorite among macro photographers due to its exceptional optical performance and versatile capabilities. This lens is specifically designed for capturing stunning close-up images, but it also excels in portrait photography.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Tamron SP AF 90mm is impressive. It has a solid, sturdy construction that feels durable in hand. The lens features a rubberized focus ring that is smooth and precise, making it easy to achieve the desired focus, especially crucial in macro photography where even slight adjustments can make a significant difference. Weighing in at about 600 grams, it is relatively lightweight for a macro lens, which adds to its portability for fieldwork.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Tamron 90mm F/2.8 is stellar; it provides sharp images with excellent detail across the entire frame. Distortion and chromatic aberration are minimal, ensuring that you get crisp and clear images. The lens has a 1:1 magnification ratio, which is essential for macro work, allowing you to capture intricate details of small subjects like insects and flowers. The f/2.8 aperture not only offers good low-light performance but also creates a pleasing bokeh, making it an excellent option for portrait shots as well.

Autofocus System

The lens is equipped with a fast and accurate autofocus system. While it works well for most general shooting scenarios, macro photography often requires manual focusing for precision. Here, the lens excels as it allows easy switching between autofocus and manual focus. However, it can struggle in low-light conditions, which may be a concern for some users.

Compatibility and Use

Being designed for the Canon EF mount, this lens is compatible with a variety of Canon cameras, including full-frame and crop-sensor models. On crop-sensor bodies, the effective focal length becomes approximately 144mm, which can be quite advantageous for wildlife photography or portraiture.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional sharpness and detail in images.
• Solid build quality and lightweight design.
• 1:1 magnification for true macro photography.
• Versatile f/2.8 aperture for low light and portrait work.
• Smooth and easy-to-use manual focus ring.

Cons

• Autofocus can be slow in low-light situations.
• Some users may find the lens hood to be less effective in flare reduction.

Verdict

The Tamron SP AF 90mm F/2.8 Di Macro lens for Canon EF mounts is a fantastic choice for both macro and portrait photography. With its exceptional optical performance, solid construction, and versatility, it stands as a strong contender in the macro lens category. While it has a few minor drawbacks, they are easily overshadowed by its strengths, making it a valuable addition to any photographer's toolkit. Whether you're capturing insects in the wild or creating stunning portraits, this lens delivers excellent results that will meet the expectations of both amateur and professional photographers.