Tamron SP 90mm F2.8 Di VC USD 1:1 Macro (F004)

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Tamron SP 90mm F2.8 Di VC USD 1:1 Macro (F004) for Nikon F (DX) is a versatile macro lens that offers both sharpness and a compact form factor, making it a popular choice among photographers who enjoy capturing intricate details. With its 1:1 magnification capability, this lens excels at close-up photography, allowing you to capture stunning images of flowers, insects, and other small subjects with impressive clarity.

Build Quality and Design

The construction of the Tamron SP 90mm is solid and well-balanced. It features a weather-sealed body, which provides some protection against dust and moisture, making it a reliable choice for outdoor shooting. The lens grip is comfortable, and the focus ring operates smoothly, providing precise control over manual focusing when needed. Moreover, the lens is relatively lightweight compared to other macro lenses, making it easier to carry during long shooting sessions.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the Tamron SP 90mm delivers exceptional sharpness and contrast throughout the aperture range. At f/2.8, you’ll get remarkably sharp images even at close distances, and stopping down to f/5.6 or f/8 enhances this further. The lens also provides beautiful bokeh, thanks to its rounded aperture blades. Chromatic aberration and distortion are minimal, which adds to the overall image quality. The VC (Vibration Compensation) feature is a welcome addition, especially for handheld shooting in less-than-ideal lighting conditions, reducing the risk of blurriness caused by camera shake.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus on the Tamron SP 90mm is both fast and accurate, which is crucial when working with moving subjects or trying to catch the perfect moment. The USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) motor allows for quiet focusing, making it suitable for shooting in environments where noise might be a concern, such as during nature photography. However, in extremely low-light conditions or with very small subjects, autofocus may struggle, and manual focusing could be preferred.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent sharpness and contrast, even at wide open apertures.
• 1:1 macro capability allows for stunning detail capture.
• Good build quality with weather-sealing.
• Lightweight and comfortable to handle.
• Effective Vibration Compensation for handheld use.
• Fast and accurate autofocus with quiet operation.

Cons

• Autofocus can struggle in very low-light situations.
• Some users may find the lack of a tripod collar limiting for macro work.
• Bokeh can be a little harsh in certain lighting conditions.

Verdict

Overall, the Tamron SP 90mm F2.8 Di VC USD 1:1 Macro (F004) for Nikon F (DX) is an outstanding macro lens that combines fantastic optical performance with a sturdy design. Its ability to produce sharp, high-quality images in a compact form makes it a highly recommended choice for both amateur and professional photographers interested in macro photography. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as potential autofocus challenges in low light, the positives far outweigh the negatives, making it a worthwhile addition to any lens collection.