Choosing the right lens for wedding photography can be challenging, especially when you need versatility and quality for a range of scenarios. You want something that covers different focal lengths without compromising on optical performance. The Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD and Sigma 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN Art are two lenses that fit this bill, but making the choice between them comes down to your shooting style and needs.
Coming to you from Taylor Jackson, this insightful video covers the reasons why he ultimately chose the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 over the Sigma 28-105mm f/2.8 for his wedding photography kit. One of the standout features of the Tamron is its unique focal range, starting at 35mm and reaching all the way to 150mm. This makes it highly adaptable, especially for wedding ceremonies where switching lenses isn’t practical. Jackson points out that while the Sigma has a wider starting point at 28mm, the longer reach of the Tamron makes it a more versatile option for capturing distant subjects without needing to swap lenses frequently.
The additional flexibility at the longer end is critical when you’re trying to cover various parts of a wedding, from wide angle shots of the venue to tight close-ups of the ceremony. Jackson mentions that the Tamron 35-150mm has effectively replaced his need for a separate 70-200mm lens, making it his go-to choice for events. This combination of versatility and convenience is what sets it apart, particularly if you prefer to carry minimal gear and keep your setup light.
However, Jackson acknowledges that the Sigma 28-105mm has its strengths. It’s lighter and more compact, which can be appealing if you’re looking to reduce the weight of your kit. The additional width at 28mm is beneficial for group shots or when you want to include more of the environment in your composition. Jackson found that while the Sigma performed admirably at the longer 105mm end, the optical quality wasn’t as strong at the wider 28mm setting. This variation in performance could be a deciding factor if image quality consistency is a top priority for you.
Another reason Jackson favors the Tamron is its f/2 aperture at the 35mm end, which offers better low-light performance and more control over depth of field compared to the Sigma’s constant f/2.8. This added flexibility is useful when shooting in dim environments, such as indoor ceremonies or evening receptions. While Jackson often sets the Tamron to f/2.8 to simplify exposure settings during zoom adjustments, the option to open up to f/2 is a welcome feature when you need it.
The video also touches on the ergonomics of both lenses. Jackson notes that while the Tamron is heavier than the Sigma, the balance and feel of the lens are still manageable, even during long shoots. He also mentions that, in his experience, the Tamron has a slight softening effect at f/2 that resembles the look of a mist filter, which can be flattering for portraits. This subtle characteristic can be beneficial for wedding work, where a gentler, more forgiving look is often preferred. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Jackson.
