Perhaps no workhorse lens is more ubiquitous than the standard zoom with an f/2.8 aperture. Capable of handling a diverse range of applications and needs, these lenses can be found in many photographers and filmmakers bags, though they are often rather expensive. At $799, that makes the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD rather refreshing. Can it keep up with more expensive options? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from the lens.
Coming to you from Dustin Abbott, this great video review takes a look at the new Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD for Fujifilm X Series mirrorless cameras. With an equivalent focal length range of 25.5-105mm and an f/2.8 aperture, this is an especially versatile lens. It comes with a range of features, including:
- Two molded glass aspherical elements and one hybrid aspherical element for lower levels of distortion and improved sharpness
- Two Low Dispersion elements for reduced chromatic aberrations and improved clarity
- BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) coating for fewer flares and ghosting and deeper contrast
- RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive) autofocus motor and for fast and quiet focusing suitable for both photo and video applications
- VC image stabilization
- Moisture-resistant construction
- Rounded nine-blade diaphragm for smoother bokeh
Altogether, the 17-70mm f/2.8 looks like a very nice lens for the price. Check out the video above for Abbott's full thoughts on the lens.
One of the most important capabilities of a lens in this range is close-up ability, for working with small subjects where you don't really need true macro, but you do need to be able to fill the frame fairly well with a butterfly, a watch, a stamp, coin, salamander, grasshopper, etc.
For those who missed this crucial information in the article and the video, here are the specs that matter most. Unfortunately, 1:0.21 is really quite bad and the lens will not be sufficient for such usage.
I actually think the 16-55 is fairly disappointing in this regard also.
But I have that lens and the sigma 18-50, which does get closer but the IQ is not that good up close. But the 23mm 1.4 LM can be added for such purposes.
I have this lens in Sony E-mount. It is a good lens. Doesn't do macro, but extension rings are cheap.