Digital Cameras Ratings: Tamron AF 90mm f/2.8 Di SP A/M 1:1 Macro Lens for Pentax Digital SLR Cameras Review

Average Reviews:
4.8 out of 5 stars

(More customer reviews)The Tamron 90mm macro excels where one would expect--as both a macro and as a portrait lens. Its focal length is almost perfect for portrait use; for macro work it is short and light enough so that one can obtain sharp results without a tripod (if you have steady hands), and yet long enough to capture insects.

Please note that this is a true macro lens with 1:1 magnification capability, as opposed to the many falsely named "macro" lenses on the market. When used as a macro or portrait lens, the Tamron's resolution and bokeh (blur effect) are fantastic. Its only shortcoming is that it does not yield the same great results if one uses it as a more traditional telephoto lens. More specifically, at infinity focus I notice relatively unimpressive resolution and contrast. This shortcoming is quite typical for true macro lenses, and so this is not really a disappointment, but rather a caution to those who expect an "all around" lens. Also, although the double-clutch manual/auto focus mechanism is cumbersome and the overall autofocus performance might annoy some (especially novices), in order to achieve the best results the user should opt for the manual focus mode. This is especially true for macro usage. I am perplexed as to why some people want to use "auto" settings for everything and yet also expect perfect results--sometimes a bit of human intervention works best. The point & shoot mentality does not work for macro photography.

PROS: Light yet durable, smooth manual focus, relatively inexpense, amazing sharpness and bokeh when used in macro & portrait modes, able to use without tripod (with steady hands).

CONS: Not quite as sharp at infinity focus, clutch mechanism for switching between manual/auto focus.

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Product Description:
Tamron s world renowned 90mm macro has evolved even further by incorporating Tamron s Di (Digitally Integrated) optical design, making it ideal for use with both digital and film cameras. While inheriting the same optical configuration of the previous model, the Di version features a new optical design applied to its coated surfaces. The lens is recommended as an easy to use portrait macro lens for use with a film camera, and as a convenient telephoto macro on APS-C size digital cameras since it provides a full-size equivalent angle of view of 140mm.