Lens Reviews

Tamron SP AF 17-35mm f/2.8-4 Di LD Aspherical IF

Keywords: tamron, lenses, non_nikon, sp, 17mm, 35mm

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OVERVIEW

The Tamron 17-35mm f.2.8~4 wide angle zoom lens is a recent addition to the Tamron line-up. To give it its full title, the lens is the Tamron SP AF17-35mm F/2.8-4 Di LD Aspherical [IF] Model A05

Tamron SP AF 17-35mm F/2.8-4 Di LD Zoom Lens

Unscrambling the alphabet soup indicates that this is a high-tech optic:

SP - Designation given to Tamron's top line of lenses
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Di - Digitally optimised lens, with reduced chromatic aberrations, and improved rear element coating to reduce back-scatter of light from the digital sensor. (Note that unlike the Dx Nikkors which have a reduced image circle for the small APS sized Nikon sensors, Tamron's Di series have an image circle sufficient for the full 36x24mm frame of a 35mm camera).
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LD - Low Dispersion glass for improved sharpness and contrast.
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Aspherical lens element(s) for reduced aberrations.
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IF - Internal focusing - the length of the lens does not change, and the front element does not rotate while focusing.

This review arises from approximately two week's use of the lens in a wide variety of settings. However, no formal classical testing was undertaken. Rather, the results are from my subjective experience and the results of "real world" pictures taken.

SPECIFICATIONS

Model name	A05
Focal length	17-35mm
Maximum aperture	f/2.8-4
Angle of view	104°-63°
Lens construction	14 elements in 11 groups, including 3 aspherical and 1 LD glass element
MOD (minimum object distance)	0.3m (11.8") throughout entire zoom range
Maximum magnification ratio	1:5.4 (at 35mm)
Filter size	77mm
Overall length	86.5mm (3.41")
Maximum diameter	83.2mm (3.28")
Weight	440g (15.5oz)
Number of diaphragm blades	7
Minimum aperture	f/22
Standard accessory	Flower-shaped hood