Tamron SP AF 11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di II LD Aspherical (IF) Nikon F (DX/FX)
Review
The Tamron SP AF 11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di II LD Aspherical (IF) is a versatile ultra-wide-angle zoom lens designed for Nikon’s DX format cameras. This lens is particularly popular among landscape, architecture, and interior photographers due to its expansive field of view. With a focal length range of 11-18mm, it provides a perspective that can capture stunning vistas or tight indoor spaces with ease.
One of the standout features of the Tamron 11-18mm is its build quality. Constructed with durable materials, it feels solid in hand, though it is relatively lightweight compared to some other ultra-wide-angle offerings. The lens incorporates aspherical elements that help to minimize distortion and aberrations, which can be issues in wide-angle photography. This results in images that are sharp across the frame, with vibrant colors and good contrast, especially when stopped down.
The autofocus system in the SP AF 11-18mm is another enjoyable aspect. It operates relatively quickly and quietly, making it suitable for both shooting stills and video. The internal focusing mechanism allows for smooth focusing without changing the length of the lens, which is a plus for maintaining balance while shooting. Additionally, the lens has a minimum focusing distance of around 0.24m (9.4 in), which enables a close-up perspective for creative compositions.
However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. While it performs well at the wide end, the lens exhibits some barrel distortion at the 11mm focal length, which is common for ultra-wide lenses, but could be a drawback for those who prioritize absolute geometric accuracy. The maximum aperture of F/4.5-5.6, while decent, may not be sufficient for low-light conditions without raising the ISO, which could lead to noticeable noise.
Another downside is that it does not feature image stabilization, which might be a concern if you're shooting in low-light scenarios or at slower shutter speeds. As a wide-angle lens, the lack of stabilization may not be as critical as it is with longer focal lengths, but it’s still worth considering based on your photography style.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent build quality and lightweight design
- Good sharpness and color rendition
- Fast and quiet autofocus
- Internal focusing mechanism
- Close minimum focusing distance for creative shots
Cons
- Barrel distortion at 11mm
- Maximum aperture range may limit low-light performance
- Lack of image stabilization
Verdict
The Tamron SP AF 11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di II LD Aspherical (IF) lens is an excellent choice for photographers looking for an affordable ultra-wide-angle option for their Nikon DX cameras. Its strengths in build quality, autofocus performance, and image quality make it a valuable addition to any landscape or architectural photography kit. However, potential buyers should be aware of the distortion at the widest end and the limitations in low-light situations. If you can work around these factors, this lens may be the perfect fit for your creative needs.