Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8

[RWE]

Taken with the Tamron and Kenko extension tubes.



Great photos - which tubes (specifically)?

[steve215]

http://cgi.ebay.com/Kenko-Teleplus-Extension-Tube-Set-DG-for-Canon_W0QQitemZ170215449340QQihZ007QQcategoryZ3007 0QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

^^^ tubes

[RWE]

Thanks!

[donysy]

May I join ? Here are couple of mine ..

[david888lee]

Great photos - which tubes (specifically)?

i believe it was the 20mm Kenko tube

[david888lee]

some more with the tamron.

1.http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2212/2249049454_fc151d1f33.jpg?v=0

2. http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2075/2190277977_c157d70efc.jpg?v=0

3. http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1319/1460240055_811a2eaeeb.jpg?v=0

4. http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1074/1147365390_f80dc5dbba.jpg?v=1187380408

[ashleynaugust]

Got mine in and used it immediately yesterday afternoon on some flowers outside-woohoo! Here are my very first shots:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2306/2476338619_2a6f6aa412_o.jpg
In a 100% crop you can see the tiny hairs on each flower (they are velvety, although you almost can't tell without touching)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2303/2476338625_c0b8b5cedc_o.jpg
I'm loving it compared to the kit 18-55-it is much sharper. I've been wondering if my kit was a soft copy, or if it was just incompetent user error, but this makes me think that it wasn't all me.

[ashleynaugust]

Sorry so large! I'm not used to this style of forum img tags and wasn't sure how to input a size.

[Dvenosa]

Some of my pictures with Tammy:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2086/2480702832_549002f5ba.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2013/2480702826_52d06805bc.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3029/2321792811_97c06c330b.jpg

[sandytrail]

Fantastic pictures Dvenosa - I love the wide portraits. Exactly what I am planning to use my Tammy for :)

[ashleynaugust]

Okay, I'm back with a little bit better (I hope).


It walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, but...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/AshleysBucket/webMayR2J_05-09-08_IMG_4008.jpg

It's not a duck. Taken in Raw, just sharpened a tiny bit. Below is a 100% crop of feathers, NO sharpening, saturation, nothing. Straight out of camera. :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/AshleysBucket/100CROPMayR2J_05-09-08_IMG_4003.jpg

edit: Taken at f2.8 (so the "soft wide open) doesn't seem to be a problem!

[sgogula]

taken at tulip festival today..

[blssdwlf]

Action shot :)

http://www.chung.cc/v8/files/images/2008-03-08_EasterEggHunt_0050_0.zbabc2z.jpg

[Photography Krazee]

Have 3 Tammys and like them quite well. 2 for Canon DSLR and 1 in Nikon film.

To me...optics are great and build is better than either Canon or Nikon comsumer models.

[rider1]

Here's mine. Glad it's warmer!

[symby]

Well I just got the lens yesterday, and I'm fairly new to this.

No PP done, just resized and a 100% crop. Focus point was the "A Very Private War" text (center point).

[Dorman]

Looks pretty good Symby - I have to say I haven't seen books like those readers digest ones since I was a kid! my folks had a few of them, including a hollow one that was like a safe for hiding items. Cool stuff.

[symby]

Hmmm maybe I should look through them for hidden things. They are donated books for the library in my condo building. :D

[Dorman]

Hmmm maybe I should look through them for hidden things. They are donated books for the library in my condo building. :D

Perhaps - thought the RD books might've been an east coast thing.

[symby]

Just noticed you're a fellow haligonian. Its not the first time I've seen the RD books so maybe it is.

[Dorman]

Very well could be, yes I'm a haligonian as well.

[carianoff]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3015/2489499681_5c98220535_b.jpg

[beepclick]

Took this one from my hotel room balcony on vacation last month.
http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c358/vectorcafe/hoteldphd.jpg

[wardge]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3015/2489499681_5c98220535_b.jpg


That's it... I am sold! Going to get one after work tonight! :D

[carianoff]

That's it... I am sold! Going to get one after work tonight! :D

Thats a crop too, this is the original.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2081/2489499491_26ee59eebc_b.jpg

[Coppatop85]

Some Concert photog with this lens. All at 1600 ISO.

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh2/Coppatop85/Minus%20The%20Bear%20and%20Apollo%20Sunshine/MTBguitarist2color.jpg

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh2/Coppatop85/Minus%20The%20Bear%20and%20Apollo%20Sunshine/MTBdrummercolor.jpg

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh2/Coppatop85/Minus%20The%20Bear%20and%20Apollo%20Sunshine/1MinustheBearPSd.jpg

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh2/Coppatop85/Minus%20The%20Bear%20and%20Apollo%20Sunshine/MTBkeyboardcolor.jpg

[beepclick]

From my roof this evening - I need a lot of practice on my pp
http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c358/vectorcafe/dtown051608web.jpg

[MX962]

Only had it for a few days now so far I'm more then happy with it ,focus is faster then i had expected as with color also and yes its sharp ,focus is dead on :)

couple quick picks of my grey card

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p272/mx962/IMG_0138copy.jpg

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p272/mx962/IMG_0138copy_crop.jpg

[Dorman]

Just have to chime in as I do every now and then, and say that I regret selling this lens!

[MX962]

Just have to chime in as I do every now and then, and say that I regret selling this lens!
I bet,get a new one man :) Have to say I would have never bought one if not for this thread and the great images in it ... Heres one more from today

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p272/mx962/IMG_0148copy.jpg

[Dorman]

Yeah this is an impressive thread for sure, I probably won't be buying another one, too redundant to the gear I'm already rockin'.

[mesabassman]

My contribution from yesterday at 2.8.... I set up my three year old's Thomas the Tank Engine train track that steams with water! It was taken with no flash hence the 1600 ISO. Very shallow DOF. C&C welcome!

[cedm]

few more I've taken recently....

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2390/2511641900_03e746b377_o.jpg
Exposure: 0.006 sec (1/160)
Aperture: f/5.6
Focal Length: 50 mm
ISO Speed: 100




http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2316/2510811565_e658561783_o.jpg
Exposure: 0.008 sec (1/125)
Aperture: f/4.5
Focal Length: 50 mm
ISO Speed: 100




http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2294/2510810707_c766624bd5_o.jpg
Exposure: 0.003 sec (1/320)
Aperture: f/5.6
Focal Length: 50 mm
ISO Speed: 100


Same shot, 100% crop:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3011/2511641664_c36067a163_o.jpg

[wardge]

This lens ROCKS.... I actually kind of like the noise of the AF motor, and it's not as loud as I thought it would be when I heard other people talk about it... After taking some pics of the dog with my new 70-200 2.8L, I switched to the Tammy, and grabbed this one... The dog was WAYYYYYY over the camera thing by this point.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3094/2515625924_142f591fe7.jpg
Tamron 17-50 f/2.8 @ 5.6, 1/250, ISO 100, 50mm, Speedlite 430EX. The focus was on her nose.

Here's a 100% crop of the same image... Bear with me, I hope I did this right (first crop post)
273745
I'd say I am very happy with the sharpness on this lens :)

[kokakaste2]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2080/2515716730_9b2218b07e_b.jpg

My Irish terrier, Rado. :)

Canon EOS 30D
Shutter Speed: 1/100 second
F Number: F/3.2
Focal Length: 50 mm
ISO Speed: 1250

[Mitch529]

Just got this lens walking around taking some practice shots, this one came out well I think.

Canon 350D
Exposure: 1/640s
Aperture: f/2.8
Focal Length: 50mm
ISO: 100

http://img378.imageshack.us/img378/8792/img46152ey0.jpg

100% Crop
http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/1028/img46151wa3.jpg

[greygoose]

every chance i get, i visit this thread.

and bump.

i want this lens

[tristanmb81]

Hello, new to this site and I am loving it! I'm learning alot from everyone's experiences, and also would like to become a pro in the future.... Anyways, I use this lens as my walkaround toy. However I try not to use it on 17mm at f2.8 b/c of softness issues. Overall I like this lens and will be confident enough to purchase another tammy later...

[Lars Leber]

http://larsleber.com/boards/2008_05/2519471299_8353dfb23f_o.jpg

[kb100]

WOW WOW WOW!!

Brilliant shot!! My sigma 17-70 is in the mail - Wonder if I should return it and get this one instead!

I am still reeling...

[beepclick]

1/60, f10, ISO400, 50mm
http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c358/vectorcafe/17-50Lucas.jpg

[jraab22]

f8 1/640 ISO200 35mm

http://jraab.smugmug.com/photos/302680350_p49Cz-M.jpg

[carianoff]

I had this in another thread, but i figured it may be seen better in here. This was the first portrait i took with the lens. pretty happy with the sharpness.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2129/2540828614_f3d75cfdd8_b.jpg

[ALaS]

My contribution from yesterday at 2.8.... I set up my three year old's Thomas the Tank Engine train track that steams with water! It was taken with no flash hence the 1600 ISO. Very shallow DOF. C&C welcome!

Looks like 400 ISO to me.

[ALaS]

every chance i get, i visit this thread.

and bump.

i want this lens

Get it! It's not too bad in price.

[scottycam]

Not sure if its been mentioned but I got mine through focuscamera.com with free shipping for 375ish.

Oh, and I too love this lens.

[beepclick]

One from this evening's practice.
http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c358/vectorcafe/Flowers/Daisy4.jpg

[BluewookieJim]

That is nice, you just need to adjust the WB.

[beepclick]

That is nice, you just need to adjust the WB.

Yeah, no kidding. I tried a bunch of WB settings in RAW. Used the ColorTemp option, this one 3600K, none of them looked natural. Thanks for looking.

[blssdwlf]

Yeah, no kidding. I tried a bunch of WB settings in RAW. Used the ColorTemp option, this one 3600K, none of them looked natural. Thanks for looking.

I'm assuming the flower petals are white? Have you tried using the white balance dropper and click on the white of the petals? I did on your jpeg and it corrected it.

[Hurricane]

I've had this lens about 6 months and don't regret buying it. It's sharp enough wide open and great at concerts and in other low light situations.

Some landscape samples:

http://www.hurricane.pri.ee/images/20080610191336__mg_6920.jpg

http://www.hurricane.pri.ee/images/20080610193239__mg_6971.jpg

[Apex174]

I'm really happy with this lens. Got it for $450.00. I replaced my 17-85 IS with it.

Here is a Tarsier, a small primate, native to the Bohol province in the Philippines.

Shot with available light, no flash. ISO 800, f2.8 @ 50mm, 1/80

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v475/Apex174/Photography%20Images/IMG_0581b.jpg

[amaphiyarden]

Great thoughts!
I'm planning on buying it but had another question.
When I contacted a retailer they said that without the filters (eg: polarizer/UV) I would lose 20-30% image quality!? I told him I'd research this so please share any thoughts you have!
Thanks!

[str8addicted]

Great thoughts!
I'm planning on buying it but had another question.
When I contacted a retailer they said that without the filters (eg: polarizer/UV) I would lose 20-30% image quality!? I told him I'd research this so please share any thoughts you have!
Thanks!
i would not believe that http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=368177 . some retailers tell you anything to get you buy something extra when their prices are under what the market average is. i was just told today by a slimy sales guy that the video camera i just ordered needed a extra battery cuz the one that comes with it only last 20mins....lol

[danchee]

Great thoughts!
I'm planning on buying it but had another question.
When I contacted a retailer they said that without the filters (eg: polarizer/UV) I would lose 20-30% image quality!? I told him I'd research this so please share any thoughts you have!
Thanks!

That is some nice BS they're spewing there :) It would be the other way around - you lose image quality if you have crappy filters on it ;)

[iamaelephant]

My copy just arrived, quick snaps to test it out. Looks pretty good to me :) For comparison I have included a 100% crop from the Tamron and a 100% crop from the 18-55mm (non-IS) kit lens, converted from RAW with exactly the same settings. Both images at ISO 100, 50mm, f/5.6, 0.6 seconds. Taken on a stable bench with remote, no camera shake.

Tammy:
http://iamaelephant.net/images/tam_small.jpg

Tamron 100% crop
http://iamaelephant.net/images/tam_crop.jpg

Kit lens crop
http://iamaelephant.net/images/kit_crop.jpg

[str8addicted]

i just got mine yesterday. i had to get a pic of who made it possible....lol

ISO 400 f/2.8 50mm 1/200

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3148/2573880465_fdc3e8b13f_b.jpg

[wardge]

LOL, I love this!!!!! :D

i just got mine yesterday. i had to get a pic of who made it possible....lol

ISO 400 f/2.8 50mm 1/200

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3148/2573880465_fdc3e8b13f_b.jpg

[jdlloyd67]

Thank you Chase Card Services!!! :D

[Rollout]

backyard of my house (minimal pp):
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3119/2581574727_83af841fe5_o.jpg

[photojournalista]

Is the zoom ring of this lens really that stiff? I actually thought the zoom lock was engaged!
red = locked, no red = unlocked right?

[iamaelephant]

That's right. It's quite a lot tighter than the cheapo kit lens but it shouldn't be so tight it feels locked.

[photojournalista]

That's right. It's quite a lot tighter than the cheapo kit lens but it shouldn't be so tight it feels locked.

Thanks. So it's normal after all.

[symby]

Couple from last week. Really mild USM before resizing.

And yes its normal that the zoom ring is stiff. It'll loosen up a bit, but hasn't too much on mine yet.

[jdlloyd67]

Couple from last week. Really mild USM before resizing.

And yes its normal that the zoom ring is stiff. It'll loosen up a bit, but hasn't too much on mine yet.

Very nice! Good shots!!! I could go for one of those!!! :D

[tristanmb81]

i like the first shot, nicely done!

[symby]

Thanks guys.

jdlloyd67 - you mean the lens or the beer? ;)

[kokakaste2]

Wonderful lens for money. Picture taken by my friend, but with my camera. The guy in brown t-shirt and jeans is me by the way.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3149/2587333559_4dc033c8c1_b.jpg

1/320 at 2.8 ISO 400

[jdlloyd67]

Thanks guys.

jdlloyd67 - you mean the lens or the beer? ;)

The beer, of course! :) Although, I am on the fence with this lens and the 17-40L. I just can't decide!!! :confused:

[symby]

I dunno if you can get a Keith's draft in FL, but I'm sure you can find a beer somewhere.

For me, between the 17-40L, it was no contest for the Tammy. Price and constant 2.8 sold it for me. I haven't made my 17-40L owning coworker overly jealous yet. :)

[jdlloyd67]

I dunno if you can get a Keith's draft in FL, but I'm sure you can find a beer somewhere.

For me, between the 17-40L, it was no contest for the Tammy. Price and constant 2.8 sold it for me. I haven't made my 17-40L owning coworker overly jealous yet. :)

I was one click away from pulling the trigger on a Tammy 17-50 over on FredMiranda.com but I hestitated and someone else grabbed it out from under me. Doh!!! :cry: I'm 50/50 on these two lenses so basically which ever one I find first at a great deal will be the one I get.

[Rollout]

ants!!
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3259/2589321930_53a66e5456_o.jpg

[woolbr8stl]

The build of the Tamron doesn't impress like some other brands, but I can't complain about the IQ....

St Louis Art Museum

Dedicated to Art and Free to All

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c251/woolbr8stl/1546fhdreyecatchingsmall_edited-1.jpg

[Lars Leber]

Took this one tonight ..

http://larsleber.com/boards/2008_06/IMG_6826_800.jpg

[freestylee30]

These are my first ever pictures posted to the forums - exciting stuff huh? :lol:

I just received the lens today (like an hr or two ago) and was excited to test it out. These two shots were slightly altered in DPP (contrast, color saturation, sharpness, crop and resize).

Looking forward to using this lens more. Oh also, everything I read made me nervous of the sound this thing might make when focusing... it was not nearly as bad as I thought.

Sorry for the quick "find something in the backyard to shoot" pictures...

1) 50mm f/8
http://www.fcwolfpac.com/mclovin/IMG_2287.JPG

2) 50mm f/2.8
http://www.fcwolfpac.com/mclovin/IMG_2293.JPG

3) 17mm f/8
http://www.fcwolfpac.com/mclovin/IMG_2309.JPG

4) 17mm f/2.8
http://www.fcwolfpac.com/mclovin/IMG_2299.JPG

[vixeh]

#1
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2004/1520000660_2fcddc1020_b.jpg
#2
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2373/1524468657_6197df0df9_b.jpg
#3
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2389/1552961933_b15b2c8417_b.jpg

This lens is for sale (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=525687) in the marketplace.

[whaase]

How is this lens indoors? I have a Sigma 17-70 and I find it hunts more then it focuses lol. Would this be better then the kit lens for focusing indoors?

[iamaelephant]

The focus isn't great, but it's better than my 50 f/1.8 and slightly better than the kit lens. In my opinion it's the only thing I don't like about this lens.

[yogestee]

I'm still tosing up betwen the Tamron 17-50 F/2.8 or the Sigma 18-50 F/2.8..

[j00sten]

How is this lens indoors? I have a Sigma 17-70 and I find it hunts more then it focuses lol. Would this be better then the kit lens for focusing indoors?

The key to focusing in low light is to use a line of contrast parallel to your intended focus point. I haven't really had a lot of problems when I've done this. If it's extremely low light, the best thing to do is either manual focus or use a flashlight for prefocusing the lens. I'm getting a 50 f/1.4 next week, so I'm going to have fun testing it out in low light vs the Tamron.

[joruiz]

In low light I never notice any problems since I always have my 580EXII on camera, and it makes it really easy for the camera to focus. I have had problems trying to focus against the sun or strong light, but I guess that would happen with any lens.

I really enjoy using this lens, very good buy.

Joel

[whaase]

The key to focusing in low light is to use a line of contrast parallel to your intended focus point. I haven't really had a lot of problems when I've done this. If it's extremely low light, the best thing to do is either manual focus or use a flashlight for prefocusing the lens. I'm getting a 50 f/1.4 next week, so I'm going to have fun testing it out in low light vs the Tamron.

So for example, if I was taking a picture of someone standing by a door, I would be better off putting a white sheet behind them for contrast? Or are you talking about something else? I find manual focus nearly impossible to do. I can't tell if it is focused or not until I get the pics on a computer. Then its too late lol

[j00sten]

So for example, if I was taking a picture of someone standing by a door, I would be better off putting a white sheet behind them for contrast? Or are you talking about something else? I find manual focus nearly impossible to do. I can't tell if it is focused or not until I get the pics on a computer. Then its too late lol

You don't really need a white piece of paper behind the person. Try to to use something like the edge between their clothing and their skin, or anything they're wearing that has distinct contrast lines. The key is to find that distinct contrast that you can use in your field of view.

Alternatively, a flash like what joruiz mentioned will help with focus as well since it uses a large AF assist lamp.

Here's another good trick:

Assume you're using M mode and you have * for AF lock. Set your ISO/shutter speed/aperture for the desired exposure. Pop up your flash, then use * for AF lock. You'll notice that the flash will strobe some light to acquire focus. Once you have focus, push the flash down then take the picture.

[Jonathan Taylor]

Here's a couple from last night...

exif should still be intact

[blssdwlf]

So for example, if I was taking a picture of someone standing by a door, I would be better off putting a white sheet behind them for contrast? Or are you talking about something else? I find manual focus nearly impossible to do. I can't tell if it is focused or not until I get the pics on a computer. Then its too late lol

No white sheet is necessary :)

If the subject has enough light falling on them for contrast, use your center AF and aim at the nearest eye or facial feature. You'll need to rely on your center AF more and do the focus-recompose if you are not already doing so because on the 20D it can take advantage of an f/2.8 lens. The AF points I believe are all horizontal line sensitive with the center also vertical sensitive up to f/2.8. So your contrast "border" will lock in best at certain orientations. I remember on my old Olympus that I could obtain a lock by rotating the camera to match the focus point's orientation when my default orientation wouldn't work.

If the subject isn't particularly contrasty enough to AF lock onto, try AF on another subject/spot at approximately the same distance away, switch to Manual Focus on the lens to lock in the distance and then aim and shoot your subject. A laser pointer, flash light or any other means of AF assist can help also. You'll need to practice a bit to see how low the light you can go with your setup.

Since you also have a Sigma flash, you can also use the AF-assist light on it. It only works for center AF, but it works very well, IMHO.

[Gravy]

Sadly I went and sold this lens...
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2068/2230859338_4617c18a4c.jpg

[iamaelephant]

Wow, that's gorgeous Gravy.

[cvt01]

I really like this lens, I can't resist to recommend to everybody who looks for a fast affordable walkaround lens for a crop camera in this forum :D.

Wide angle stopped down:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3056/2619304452_c30f6cf53a_b.jpg

Long end wide open:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3079/2619323050_4d587c8cd1_b.jpg

[Transfer]

Recent weekend shots at the Oregon Coast:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3124/2620479316_141b708a1d_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3012/2619657381_f9e2e80b4d_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3103/2619659323_e8520dc87f_b.jpg

[buto]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3285/2622714949_8a90a215f8_o.jpg

Downtown San Diego from Coronado

[da_teacher]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3285/2622714949_8a90a215f8_o.jpg

Downtown San Diego from Coronado

Nice!

[freestylee30]

Recent weekend shots at the Oregon Coast:



http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3012/2619657381_f9e2e80b4d_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3103/2619659323_e8520dc87f_b.jpg

Hey! That looks like Oswald St. Park / Short-sands beach?!?! I used to go there all the time. Great little beach for surfing and the park is a nice place to camp!

[Transfer]

Hey! That looks like Oswald St. Park / Short-sands beach?!?! I used to go there all the time. Great little beach for surfing and the park is a nice place to camp!

Bingo! That was my first time to that particular beach on the coast. Beautiful place.

[Wekkel]

For focussing problems: why don't you have a decent flash already?
If the lens hunts, the're a lot of arguments to use a flash anyway. No problems at all with the 'hunting' 50mm 1.8 when using the 430ex flash with AF assistence (a great releave I must say).

[0(ʹͦˋ¿ˊͦˋ)0]

http://img157.imageshack.us/img157/1574/br1of1qn7.jpg


http://img71.imageshack.us/img71/4808/sk1of1ji6.jpg

I wish I could know somehow if my lens is sharp enough.

[symby]

Looks sharp to me (however I pronounce that name). :)

[HiImSean]

taken while on a class trip on Skidaway Island Georgia, part of the barrier islands

http://picsorban.com/upload/img_3862.jpg
http://picsorban.com/upload/img_3847.jpg

[demar727]

i dont know what to get.. the 17-50mm Tamron.. or the 17-70 Sigma :(

[JBerlotti]

i dont know what to get.. the 17-50mm Tamron.. or the 17-70 Sigma :(

I would go for the tammy for the fixed 2.8. Plus she is an awesome lens. I have never used the sigma 17-70 so my comment is one sided. If that lens performed like the sigma 24-70 and 70-200 (both of which I have) I am sure its an awesome lens. From what I have seen on the threads dealing with it, it is!

[cricketboy75]

i dont know what to get.. the 17-50mm Tamron.. or the 17-70 Sigma :(
i have both lenses and if you don't need the extra reach of the Sigma, i'd get the Tamron.
from my point of view:
Tamron pros:
- sharper
- constant f/2.8
Tamron cons:
- shorter
- colours seem flatter to me
Sigma pros:
- more reach
- nicer colour and better bokeh to my eye
Sigma cons:
- variable aperture
- not as sharp

With regards to sharpness though, it's really obvious when pixel peeping or printing in very large format. For the average print, you'll just have to make the determination yourself.

Having said all that, you'll most likely be very happy with either lens. Unless of course you have the L fever! :)

[demar727]

i have both lenses and if you don't need the extra reach of the Sigma, i'd get the Tamron.
from my point of view:
Tamron pros:
- sharper
- constant f/2.8
Tamron cons:
- shorter
- colours seem flatter to me
Sigma pros:
- more reach
- nicer colour and better bokeh to my eye
Sigma cons:
- variable aperture
- not as sharp

With regards to sharpness though, it's really obvious when pixel peeping or printing in very large format. For the average print, you'll just have to make the determination yourself.

Having said all that, you'll most likely be very happy with either lens. Unless of course you have the L fever! :)

yeah..the colors i can fix.. from photoshop.. but sharpness is key!

but thanks for your inputs.. i dont need reach.. if i do.. thats why i have the 100-400 ;)

[cricketboy75]

yeah..the colors i can fix.. from photoshop.. but sharpness is key!

but thanks for your inputs.. i dont need reach.. if i do.. thats why i have the 100-400 ;)
sounds like you're the perfect candidate for the tamron. :) all the best with your decision! don't stress though, both lenses are really good for the price, so you can't lose either way! :)

[cricketboy75]

taken this evening. it was overcase, so colours are mutes. the details are:
- RAW converted to jpg with LR and a bit of sharpening.
- 3 exposures blended. don't have GND filter, that's why.

[Nolleos]

I have the impression that at the 2nd foto the 3 exposures are not overlapping each other quit good :(. It is especially noticed at the pillars of the bridge.
Did you use a tripod?

regards, Ton

[cricketboy75]

I have the impression that at the 2nd foto the 3 exposures are not overlapping each other quit good :(. It is especially noticed at the pillars of the bridge.
Did you use a tripod?

regards, Ton
sure did. i think they overlap quite well actually. look at the platform. it's the water which is blurry and that's cos of the water moving.

[C_o_r_e_y]

I took these on the 4th at Lake Winnipesaukee. The first 2 are HDR and the last is a singe exposure. I used a B+W polarizer.

http://coreyf.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p424412457-4.jpg

http://coreyf.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p20227502-4.jpg

http://coreyf.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p507485161-4.jpg

[cedm]

taken this evening. it was overcase, so colours are mutes. the details are:
- RAW converted to jpg with LR and a bit of sharpening.
- 3 exposures blended. don't have GND filter, that's why.

Something looks wrong in your first photo. The clouds are very flat, seems like you lost details during the conversion.

[cricketboy75]

Something looks wrong in your first photo. The clouds are very flat, seems like you lost details during the conversion.
by flat, do you mean dull? it was very cloudy and the actual scene was actually even more dull than the pic. i think i increase colour saturation in the pic.

[loanrangie]

sounds like you're the perfect candidate for the tamron. :) all the best with your decision! don't stress though, both lenses are really good for the price, so you can't lose either way! :)

Hi mate, if you dont mind me asking, i'm in much the same boat and have narrowed it down to the S 17-70 V T 17-50, i'm using a 24-85 EF USM and 100-300 EF USM. I dont have any primes but have been considering a 50 1.8 although the tammy may negate that, interested in your thoughts.

thanks,
Nick.

[cricketboy75]

Hi mate, if you dont mind me asking, i'm in much the same boat and have narrowed it down to the S 17-70 V T 17-50, i'm using a 24-85 EF USM and 100-300 EF USM. I dont have any primes but have been considering a 50 1.8 although the tammy may negate that, interested in your thoughts.

thanks,
Nick.
g'day mate. it really depends if you need the extra length of the sigma. if not, i reckon go with the tamron cos i found it sharper and the lower aperture across the range is useful. i reckon you won't regret. hope that helps. :)

[loanrangie]

If i go for the sigma i will offload the 24-85 or keep it and get the tamron, my budget is pretty tight so the less expensive option will win for the moment.

g'day mate. it really depends if you need the extra length of the sigma. if not, i reckon go with the tamron cos i found it sharper and the lower aperture across the range is useful. i reckon you won't regret. hope that helps. :)

[Dockland]

Resized only:

http://hem.bredband.net/elixir/1.jpg


http://hem.bredband.net/elixir/2.jpg

http://hem.bredband.net/elixir/3.jpg

[loanrangie]

Nice vivid colours there dockland .

[tristanmb81]

My tamron has dust in the lens. I took apart the lens, but the dust are in between two sealed glasses. :( Very annoying when shooting in daylight, b/c it would show up sometimes on subject's faces.

[maxse]

Guys Im a newbie with an XTi. I have a Tamron 28-75 f/2.8...

Could you guys tell me how to meter such a shot?

Obviously I shouldn't point at the sun. So do I point at the water then adjust the shutter speed, av, or sky?

Also is this shot better taken fully manual or Shutter priority? f/8 I would assume?
taken while on a class trip on Skidaway Island Georgia, part of the barrier islands

http://picsorban.com/upload/img_3862.jpg
http://picsorban.com/upload/img_3847.jpg

[Tfer]

An absolutely, fantastic walk-around lens.

EXIF:

Shooting Date/Time
06/07/2008 18:52:46
Tv(Shutter Speed)
1/320Sec.
Av(Aperture Value)
F4.0
Metering Modes
Centerweighted average metering
Exposure Compensation
0
ISO Speed
200
Lens
17-50mm
Focal Length
29.0 mm
Image size
3888 x 2592
Image Quality
RAW
Flash
Off
White Balance
Auto
AF mode
One-Shot AF
Picture Style
Faithful
Parameters
Tone Curve : Standard
Sharpness level : -
Pattern Sharpness : -
Contrast : 0
Sharpness : 0
Color saturation : 0
Color tone : 0


Original (resized) and 100% crop:

[yogestee]

I've ordered my Tamron 17-50 F/2.8,,should be here by the end of the week.. Looking forward to putting it through its paces.. It will partner my Sigma EX 50-150mm F/2.8 APO and Tamron 28-75 F/2.8 nicely..

[RobNYC]

Just scored a Tamron 17-50 used but in perfect shape for $380 yesterday. Now to find something to aim it at....

[mesabassman]

I love mine! Check out the sharpness on this Gecko's eyes!

[yogestee]

I say its pretty sharp!!

[Amamba]

My tamron has dust in the lens. I took apart the lens, but the dust are in between two sealed glasses. :( Very annoying when shooting in daylight, b/c it would show up sometimes on subject's faces.


What warranty do you have ? At least here in States they come with 6 year warranty.

[epatt250]

I love my Tamron. Not sure if these are suppose to be sized for web only for PP but this one had a 3px high pass sharpen set to soft light blend mode only.
33mm, f5.6, iso100 ceiling bounce flash.
http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb212/epatt250/Brady/bradyDT016web.jpg

[Daniel2000]

I will soon be able to post some, just purchased one today, at worst, it will be 2 weeks before my local store receive it :)

[Busto]

I love my Tamron. Not sure if these are suppose to be sized for web only for PP but this one had a 3px high pass sharpen set to soft light blend mode only.
33mm, f5.6, iso100 ceiling bounce flash.
http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb212/epatt250/Brady/bradyDT016web.jpg

Wow! Fantastic!

[BluewookieJim]

I had a chance to use this lens in very difficult conditions this past weekend. I was at a large Tang Soo Do (traditional korean martial art) tournament, held at the Arlington, TX Convention Center. It was very low light conditions, but I think the lens delivered pretty well considering.

http://photos.kodanja.net/img/v0/p990057864-4.jpg

http://photos.kodanja.net/img/v0/p1034183397-4.jpg

http://photos.kodanja.net/img/v0/p1010359167-3.jpg

http://photos.kodanja.net/img/v0/p939239199-4.jpg

http://photos.kodanja.net/img/v0/p828320425-4.jpg

http://photos.kodanja.net/img/v1/p1042431571-4.jpg

http://photos.kodanja.net/img/v0/p956663864-4.jpg

http://photos.kodanja.net/img/v2/p801822329-4.jpg

[alphonsis]

This is a 100% crop of a shot at 2.8 and 32mm.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3260/2700240448_328f644e8f_o.jpg

[Daniel2000]

nice

[snowrdr]

I used an ND4 and a circular polarizer on the tammy to get this 10sec exposure.

http://www.pbase.com/snowrdr/image/100671199.jpg

:cool:

[Daniel2000]

I used an ND4 and a circular polarizer on the tammy to get this 10sec exposure.

http://www.pbase.com/snowrdr/image/100671199.jpg

:cool:

WOW! can't wait to get mine... if my store could get it faster... :p

[da_teacher]

Here's a shot from this lens...I love this lens!!! Who said this lens was slow? Okay, maybe when there's not a lot of light but still, that's what flash is for! :)

http://i38.tinypic.com/2hqs186.jpg

More of these were posted here:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=537082

[speedy_2]

Just sealed a deal on one of these lenses. I don't think I'll be disappointed!

[yogestee]

Just sealed a deal on one of these lenses. I don't think I'll be disappointed!

Nope,,,,good choice..

[vinunleaded]

if you are on a budget and want a good wide angle lense then get this one, you wont regret it. Its one of the best camera investment ive made.

[shuut]

Taken in a Dominican festival at Corona Park. Lots and lots of people packed up like sardines...

[St1ll]

Raw converted...am I lucky with the sharpness? :)
http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/2580/senzatitolo1rk5.th.jpg (http://img150.imageshack.us/my.php?image=senzatitolo1rk5.jpg)

100% crop, f 3.5 iso 200, 35mm..

[JoYork]

Raw converted...am I lucky with the sharpness? :)
http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/2580/senzatitolo1rk5.th.jpg (http://img150.imageshack.us/my.php?image=senzatitolo1rk5.jpg)

100% crop, f 3.5 iso 200, 35mm..

Yowzers, that's sharp :)

[yogestee]

Yowzers, that's sharp :)

Sharp as a pin.. These Tamron SP and Sigma EX lenses are giving Canons a run for their money in terms of image quality and value for money but the Canon fanboys will never understand!!

[epatt250]

Sharp as a pin.. These Tamron SP and Sigma EX lenses are giving Canons a run for their money in terms of image quality and value for money but the Canon fanboys will never understand!!

Yea, I just really wish people would get on board with a ring type focus mechanism with full time manual. The IQ of my Tamron is great, but after having rented a 135L for a week and having bought the Canon 100 macro a few weeks ago I seriously might give up a little IQ for USM on everything and a little better build quality. I dont even need L build quality, just Canon 85mm 1.8 is fine. Sigmas EX has a nice build to it... but then they go and do things like not put HSM on their 24-70 or the 18-50.. then they do everything right on the 30mm but not make it usable on full frame.

If somebody would make a zoom in the 17 to 40-60 range with f2.8 and a USM/HSM focus motor I would be all over it... except I DONT want to pay $1000 for it b/c it has IS. IS on a lens less that 100mm just isnt worth paying for with my income.

[darkninja67]

Build quality is important but it is not the be all end all. You do not see too many beat on lenses in the For Sale section. Reason? Most owners tend to baby their gear and build quality does not come into play as much as it should.

Plus you are paying dearly for that "L" quality even though some 3rd party makers come close or exceed the image quality of an L.


I love my Tamron.

[epatt250]

Like I said, 85mm 1.8 build quality is fine, I dont have to have L. But I do want USM. If Tamron can make an image stabilizer they can surely make a USM mechanism.

I do love the Tamron though. Its the best lens for me in this range that is currently being produced.

[sebr]

Took my Tammy for a walk today...

http://inlinethumb02.webshots.com/43265/2817807320100642291S600x600Q85.jpg

http://inlinethumb36.webshots.com/41827/2554950930100642291S600x600Q85.jpg

[speedy_2]

Wow that portrait 100% crop is so sharp. Now I REALLY can't wait to get this lens!!

[St1ll]

Wow that portrait 100% crop is so sharp. Now I REALLY can't wait to get this lens!!
Eheheh...
well yes, it's very sharp and there's no usm sharpening; it was converted with default DPP conversion values from raw to jpeg..but the tamron is ultra-sharp even @ 17mm, and that's great for landscapes.
Post a pic when you get the lens!

[Daniel2000]

be sure I will post some too
I'm just waiting after mine, my local store didn't had it in stock, I should have it soon... :D

[photojournalista]

Sharp as a pin.. These Tamron SP and Sigma EX lenses are giving Canons a run for their money in terms of image quality and value for money but the Canon fanboys will never understand!!

I've tried the sigma, the canon and now use the tamron.
Canon really has it's advantage. What is seemingly an outrageous price for the canon is made up by keeper rate. Something that tamron fanboys will never understand. :p

Note: I'm not a fanboy, just stating my experience. I also happen to shoot a lot in a not so ideal lighting environment. If you've got better lighting, the lens performance would equalize quickly.

Bottom line, tamron is a very good lens.

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b162/cubclubpics/IMG_2513sml_.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b162/cubclubpics/IMG_2650sml.jpg


Peace all. :)

[Coppatop85]

I love this lens.

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh2/Coppatop85/Croppedriver_filtered-1.jpg

[Daniel2000]

woohoo! coming back from work I got a message on my phone telling me they received my lens!
going picking it up tomorrow morning :D

[Daniel2000]

one of my first shots made with my newly acquired Tamron :D

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh26/Daniel2000/architecture/IMG_2715.jpg

not really a good pic to show what the lens is capable of
will post some new ones soon to test the sharpness

[lukeap69]

This is my widest lens ATM. Here's one taken in Sharjah, UAE last week. What a sweet lens...

[snowrdr]

one of my first shots made with my newly acquired Tamron :D

Congrats! Looks great :cool: