Tamron SP 35mm F1.8 Di VC USD

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Tamron SP 35mm F1.8 Di VC USD is a versatile prime lens that has garnered attention for its robust build and impressive optical performance, especially in the realm of Nikon F (DX) mount. As a focal length, 35mm is often regarded as a prime choice for a variety of photography styles, from street photography to portraits, making this lens a compelling option for both amateur and professional photographers.

Build Quality and Design

This lens showcases Tamron's commitment to quality, featuring a solid construction that includes a weather-sealed body designed to withstand the elements. The matte finish gives it a professional appearance while reducing flare and reflections. It's relatively lightweight, which makes it a suitable option for photographers on the go, and the ergonomic design ensures it feels comfortable when mounted on a camera.

Optical Performance

With a maximum aperture of F1.8, the Tamron SP 35mm excels in low-light environments, allowing for beautiful background blur (bokeh) and sharp focus on the subject. Image quality is outstanding, with consistent sharpness across the frame even wide open. The lens also incorporates Vibration Compensation (VC), which helps mitigate camera shake, a useful feature particularly for handheld shooting in challenging conditions.

Autofocus System

The autofocus system is quick and generally accurate thanks to the Ultrasonic Silent Drive (USD) motor. However, in low-light situations or when working with fast-moving subjects, the autofocus can occasionally hunt, which may be a drawback for certain users. Manual focusing is also an option and is smooth, making fine adjustments easy to achieve when necessary.

Versatility and Use Cases

The 35mm focal length on a DX format camera translates to around 52.5mm in full-frame equivalent, making it versatile for multiple applications. It performs admirably for portraits, environment shots, and even some macro-style photography due to its close-focusing capability. This makes it a solid lens for travel, as it can handle a range of subjects without needing to change glass extensively.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with weather-sealing
• Impressive image sharpness and overall optical performance
• Fast F1.8 maximum aperture for low-light shooting
• Vibration Compensation (VC) for improved handheld shooting
• Versatile focal length suitable for various photography styles

Cons

• Autofocus performance can occasionally struggle in low-light situations
• Some users may find the lens to be on the heavier side compared to other 35mm options

Verdict

The Tamron SP 35mm F1.8 Di VC USD is an outstanding lens that balances quality and performance exceptionally well. Ideal for Nikon F (DX) users looking for a reliable prime lens, it offers versatility across different photography styles while being robust enough for demanding conditions. Its minor drawbacks in autofocus performance are outweighed by its many strong points, making it a worthy addition to any photographer's kit. Whether you're capturing portraits, street scenes, or landscapes, you’ll find that this lens delivers with remarkable results.