Tamron 90mm F2.8 Di III Macro VXD

Nikon Z (DX/FX)

Review

The Tamron 90mm F2.8 Di III Macro VXD is an impressive lens designed specifically for Nikon Z mount cameras, catering to both macro enthusiasts and general photographers seeking a versatile prime lens. With its impressive build quality and optical performance, this lens has garnered attention for its capabilities in close-up photography, portraits, and even landscapes.

Build and Design

The build quality of the Tamron 90mm F2.8 is robust, featuring a weather-sealed construction which makes it suitable for outdoor shooting even in less-than-ideal weather conditions. The lens has a sleek and modern design that complements the Nikon Z series, and it is relatively compact given its macro capabilities. However, it is worth noting that while the lens is lightweight for a macro, it can still feel a bit bulky when mounted on smaller mirrorless bodies.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the Tamron 90mm excels with its sharpness and clarity, delivering images that are crisp even at wide apertures. The lens is equipped with advanced glass elements, including low dispersion (LD) glass, which helps to reduce chromatic aberration and improve overall image quality. The 90mm focal length is ideal for macro photography, offering a 1:1 magnification ratio which allows you to capture incredible detail in your subjects. Additionally, the lens offers beautiful bokeh due to its rounded diaphragm, making it suitable for portrait photography as well.

Autofocus System

One standout feature of this lens is its VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) autofocus system. This new technology offers fast and accurate autofocus, even in challenging light conditions. Silent operation is another bonus that makes it great for video recording or shooting in quiet environments. However, some users report that the autofocus can occasionally hunt when trying to lock onto subjects at very close distances, which can be a point of frustration for macro photographers.

Versatility

Although primarily designed for macro photography, the Tamron 90mm F2.8 can also be used effectively for general photography needs. The lens performs admirably in portraiture, providing a flattering compression that enhances facial features. The fast maximum aperture of F2.8 allows for effective low-light performance and provides a beautiful depth of field for artistic shots.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with weather-sealing.
• Outstanding optical performance with top-notch sharpness.
• Versatile for various photography styles beyond macro.
• Fast and accurate autofocus with quiet operation.
• Beautiful bokeh rendering.

Cons

• A bit bulky compared to other prime lenses.
• Autofocus can sometimes struggle in low light or at close distances.

Verdict

The Tamron 90mm F2.8 Di III Macro VXD for Nikon Z mount is a powerhouse of a lens, particularly impressive for macro photography and versatile enough for other genres. Its combination of build quality, optical performance, and fast autofocus technology makes it a worthy addition to any photographer's kit. However, those looking for a lightweight option may want to consider alternative lenses. Overall, it's a highly recommended lens for anyone serious about macro photography or portraiture.