Yeah the problem with people's thinking this is overpriced for an f/1.8 lens is that until Tamron's new line f/1.8 lenses were always the cheap budget option for people who couldn't afford better. What Tarmon has done that confused a lot of people is make pro grade, high end primes that are f/1.8 instead of f/1.2 or f/1.4. This allowed them to make a lens that was a much better balance of price, features, size build quality, and image quality than the pro grade f/1.2-f/1.4 lenses from Canon, Sigma, and Nikon. IMO the new Tamron f/1.8 primes are the best value for money primes you can currently buy, especially the 85mm. Cheaper lenses are a significant step down in all areas and more expensive ones basically only give you a faster aperture while not having many of the features or the beautiful overall rendering with the perfect balance of sharpness, great bokeh, contrast, and color saturation the Tamron f/1.8 lenses have.
+josh885 Agreed on all points, including the fact that many people will be confused by the f/1.8 aperture and falsely consider these lenses overpriced as a result.
So far, I've used the lens for a wedding and a portrait session and I concur with everything Dustin says in this review. I value the VC more than I would an f/1.4 aperture. For me, this is a general portrait lens on a full frame body, and a photojournalism lens on both full-frame and crop bodies. The bokeh is very nice overall. I'm happy with the image quality and the fact that the lens is relatively affordable. Also, it's just a pleasure to use.
When I decided on Full-Frame, I have the Canon 24-70, 24-105 and 100-400 'L' lenses. In the last year, I've gone Tamron. The 15-30, the 45 and 85mm lenses are what I use almost exclusively, now. They are rock-solid, sharp, and the VC helps a great deal. I am enjoying my photography more.
I just started shooting with the Tamron 35mm, gives me that wider field of view. The VC is utterly awesome and the low light capability and sharpness as such conditions, blows any other lens out of the water in my experience. It is my new favorite lens!!
Thanks so much for this review! I thoroughly enjoy listening to you, out of all the countless reviews I read/view for lenses. You've really helped me out with my next lens purchase. Much appreciated!
Dustin, got a new update about the 85. Went back into the store with my 5DSR and 1DX II to test it out again. If you turn off the Peripheral Illum Correction, the opaque circles go away on the 1DX II. This also happens with the Sigma 35 1.4 Art - and the same solution works. Because of your review, I really wanted to figure out how to make this thing work. First of all, both copies that I tested before, and again today, I had not given enough MFA adjustment in store to get it tack sharp on the 5DSR at F1.8 - you don't see it on the 1Dx II but you see it on the 5DSR - both copies needed +10. The second thing I learned, because clearly the Tamron VC is different, is that on the 5DSR, placing the camera in AI Servo mode made a real difference when VC was ON - for whatever reason, it just works significantly better on the 5DSR - enough that I traded in the 85L II. So, +10MFA and AI-Servo and bamb - it is fantastic. I don't specifically like the fact that when the VC engages the lens shifts up moving the focus point, that is kind of weird, but I can get use to that. I also bought the 45 to give it a go.
+Paul O'Neil The AF servo fix would work because the VC is staying on and engaged rather than going on and off. AFMA is pretty huge for many lenses. I've got my copy dialed in on my bodies and it seems to really be delivering for me. Interesting about the VC moving the viewfinder image. That was a positive for me and other reviewers. You've managed to find all the quirks, but I'm glad you didn't give up on the lens. I continue to be really impressed by it.
Who needs a shallower DOF when you already get such incredible bokeh wide open?? :) Tamron really did a great job on their SP series. Fantastic review, enjoyed how you articulated everything clearly. Thanks for making this!!
I am trying to make a decision between the Tamron SP 85mm f1.8 and the Sigma Art f1.4 for my nikon d750. The Tamron obviously offers things like VC and weather sealing which is amazing. But I don't know if the Tamron is really superior over the Sigma one. Is the Sigma Art 85mm really worth the extra money? I would love to know your opinion! Thanks for your great videos and reviews Dustin!
That depends on what you want to do and how important compact size is. The Sigma is near double the size. I find the Sigma a better studio lens, but the Tamron a better general purpose lens.
@@DustinAbbottTWI HI. I just wanted to share my same concern with the Tamron vs. Sigma Art. 1.4 . I LOVE the quality I got when renting the Sigma for portraits. I have not performed any in-studio testing, however. I was ready to plop down (credit card only) the $1,200 for the Sigma, but, then saw the Tamron a few months ago (I guess it's been out for what...3 years now?? Where have I been?) and cannot find the Tamron to rent/compare with the Sigma. But, if what I've heard you and other say (except one fellow....bald fellow...not gonna mention any names), this lens would seem (especially after also renting the Nikon 1.8 (that did an okay job on an impromptu outdoor shoot, but, felt like a plastic toy in build quality), I might just end up buying it, throwing in the dice and see what happens on my Nikon D800. Just ONE question, please...what would cause you to say the Sigma makes for a better studio lens as opposed to an outdoor, more general purpose lens? Thanks for your time.
Thanks so much for sharing. There are many fine lens reviewers out there, however you seem to go the extra mile. I find that the out in the field-testing that you provide, to be most insightful for me to gain a better understanding of what I could expect in real world use.
+slim HaTOri katana I'm always happy to be first, too! I try not to rush the reviews, though. I generally spend 2-3 weeks with everything before I report.
Thank you. Your reviews, and Matt Granger's reviews, of the Tamron lenses are fantastic. Very helpful to me in deciding to go with Tamron lenses for my Nikon D750. Subscribed. Liked. Commented.
Wow this will go with my 7D Mark II, Fantastic Stills, wonder how good Performs the VC for handheld video. If you ever have a chance, Love that focal length and aperture for video when there is plenty of distance
I was to order the Nikon 85 1.8, but Dustin review sold me on the Tamron. I love, love, love the color rendition and the bokeh. The images are just beautiful. The bad news it is tough to get a tack sharp at F2, it worked one time out of ten for me. My copy also has the battery drain problem, I plugged it in the computer for 10 minutes to transfer pictures and a quarter of the battery was gone. This is a repeatable problem.
I've never heard of the battery drain problem on this lens. The only way the lens could drain the battery is if the VC remains on, and even that would be incapable of draining 1/4th of the battery in ten minutes. As far as tack sharp photos, it sounds like you need to calibrate focus on your camera body for the lens.
Yes, I have searched to see any other has battery drain problem and there was none. I was surprised too. I would have kept the lens if there was no battery drain problem. Because even when the image is not stack sharp, it is still beautifully rendered.
Solid work once again, Dustin! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this lens. I currently have the Canon 85 1.8, and while it was a killer lens in the film era it falls short in today's digital world. The only thing stopping me from trading it for the Tamron, however, is the highly anticipated but still only rumored Sigma 85 Art. Exciting times ahead! By the way, the issue with VC leading to ever so slightly softer images is something I experience with my Tamron 24-70 2.8 VC. I usually turn it off except when really needed.
My copy suffered from significant focus shift. Front focused at f1.8 requiring +16 AFMA and all the way through to f8 where it back focused -7 AFMA was needed (results from Reikan FoCal). I was unable to set a workable compromise on my EOS 1DX so unfortunately I had to return it - unfortunate because when it did focus it produced very nice images. Such a pity as I really wanted to like this lens.
Thanks a lot for this review Dustin, I just bought this lens, and really loved all your comments. My main reason was to buy this one is that I am going to Iceland in a near future. Weather sealing is great! I have another question, nothing to do with this video, I can't find your review of the Fotodiox panasystem for my Tamron 15-30, do you have the link at hand? Thanks a lot !!! Best for you , Daniela from Uruguay.
I have also heard that using VC vs non-VC that you will get a sharper w/o VC. Even on my Nikon 70-200 2.8 VC But when in doubt there is nothing wrong with using a tripod :-) In the old film days I used a tripod with my Hblad medium format all the time, mainly for composition in scenics and some fashion/portrait photography. Great video Dustin.
+hawg427 I rarely turn VC/IS etc... with many of my lenses, but I do know that it isn't unusual to get the absolute best results with it off (far less true with longer telephoto lengths, though).
Dustin Abbott i've sold the 45mm, after a few months, mostly because I prefer my Zeise 50 makro planar and 50 1.4 milvus. At lengths of 85mm and longer, I really like having an auto focus option. I just got back from another Southeast Asia trip with this lens and a quick look of my shots, I am extremely impressed. There were days when I did not want to lug the Canon 70-200 2.8II and picked this lens instead. I believe I always left VC on, partly because I was shooting too spontaneously to turn it off (and was sick with strep), and shot generally F2.2 to 2.8, with a jump to around 5.6 or F8. I suppose I'll never know if I would have benefited from turning VC off, but from what I see so far, I have no concerns.Although I am a huge 50mm and 100 (Zeiss) MF shooter, I liked the autofocus a lot on this 85. It seems much quicker to lock on than the 45 I had. I'm puzzled as to why I prefer the performance of this 85 to the 45 I had. I believe I like the bokeh better, the AF seems faster but perhaps it is just a focal length I needed more. The 45 was nice, but this 85 seems nicer.
Hello Dustin, I have bought the tamron 45 and 85mm lenses based on your videos and am extremely happy with both. I know this is an old video but do you think that the issue with the "less sharp" images when using the vc could be due to random focus shift issues? It has happened to me occasionally and it seems like the focus is just slightly off rather than the image being soft. It is hard to be sure though as the effect is not heavily pronounced. Thank you.
Dustin, The VC part here is main feature people are looking at it. Double the price of Nikon 85mm 1.8G for VC? is that really worth it? As for me, I would use an off-camera flash instead to compensate for the low shutter speed.
Hey Dustin, on the landscape photos you took with the VC turned ON and OFF. Was those using a tripod or hand held? I been wanting to upgrade my older Canon 85mm f/1.8 USM lens. But not sure why but all the photos in this video looked to soft in viewing in 1080p HD. Perhaps its just the way you encoded the video..
They are handheld. It wouldn't really be a test of VC on/off if is was tripod mounted. The photos are exceptionally sharp. Are you sure you were streaming in 1080p? Things look pretty sharp on my monitor.
Dustin Abbott LOL true, I just wasnt sure after watching the video if you was holding or had mounted. My head ache is driving me crazy today and I CRS. Yea was watching at 1080p, double checked. Likely just youtubes compression or what not. I really want to try this lens out. Most of the 85's on the market are starting to show their age on cameras with smaller pixel pitches like the 5DSR and pretty much all recent APS-C cameras. My Canon 85mm f/1.8 is still holding up, but just barely. Was considering the Sigma 50-100 Art, but I rather have something smaller, not locked to only APS-C and have some form of stabilization. Thanks Dustin for taking the time to reply. Cheers, Joe :-)
Agree about the 'VC' comments, I upgraded firmware and VC options, thinking there was a problem, but imho VC should be switched off for any shutter speeds above fifteenth of a second! When experimenting with it when I first got it I thought the VC/not VC images at speeds up to 1/1000, as high as I went, were reversed! Other than the VC with extreme caution 'issue' the optical quality is really excellent..
Hi Dustin! Do you think this lens share the same optical design as Batis 85mm F/1.8? I own the Batis 85mm F/.8 for my Sony mirror less cameras and am very happy with the images it produces. I have acquired a D500 recently and am thinking if this lens would be a worthy addition for portraiture.
+Steven Lui I've wondered the same because of some rumors out there. I don't get a denial or an affirmative from the Tamron people. I'm willing to be you will get a roughly similar result from these two lenses, though.
+Dustin Abbott Another great review, as always. I am going to try this lens next week and compare my results to your's, this is how I check for lens variation. At least with one other person. I am excited, thanks again for the great review.
Great review content Dustin I'm torn between this lens the Tammy 85mm f/1.8 or the Tammy 24-70mm f/2.8 G2 cause I haven't own a 24-70mm zoom range and I used to owned a 85mm f/1.4D. Take a coin flip and go from there but I have seen so much positive reviews on the Tamron 85mm f/1.8
This Tamron or Nikon 1.8G? Mainly wedding sessions, maybe few dances if the hall is large enough. I am interested in sharpness, bokeh and AF speed/consistency. All other things, like CA aren't issue for me. Using D600, always fullframe mode.
Thanks for the detailed review. I was looking for something better than my Nikon 85 f/1.8G lens. Happy at the end of your reviews you leave a reference for us Nikon shooters. I like the manual focusing ring on this series by Tamron, much better than Nikon's 1.8G series which seems a after thought. The 1.8G series have that cheap plastic build about them that does not inspire much confidence. I replaced the 50mmf/1.8G with the Tamron 45mm f/1.8 Di VC USD and never looked back. This lens should complete my prime line up unless... Tamron unveils a 24mm for this series; one can only hope.
I've personally petitioned Tamron for something in the 20-24mm range, and I would be satisfied with a maximum aperture of f/2 if they could keep the size reasonable.
Dustin Abbott Agree with the f/2 and keeping the size and weight down. My Sigma 24-35 f/2 shoots lovely landscape, but I find the weight and bulk a bit much for carry like wide angle street photography. I had a 20mm f/1.8G, was too wide for me. If Tamron can build a 24mm f/2 with the same pro build quality... then count me in.
the 24mm f1.8G is known to being pretty great.! too. I've got the 15-30mm f2.8 tamron.. and although it is a beast of a lens.. it is also a 'beast' of lens.. hehehe, if you know what i mean. :P I'm with you on the 45mm.., I just haven't gone for it because i bought a Fuji.. and it is great to have no-shutter sound when shooting mirrorless. So.. all the close-distance focal lenses i have been trying to go mirrorless. You get a lot of great candids because ppl don't realize you're there..and shooting away.. multiple shots! I've got the 41mm f2.8 equivalent (pancake) and the 24mm f1.4 equivalent. The latter is utterly amazing! Check it out! As for the 85mm.. well.. my 85mm f1.8 D 'kissed the concrete' the other day.. so it is not at 100%. I have been contemplating this lens.. or basically go Sony. I've been talking to a couple of ppl who own both and they told me the Nikon G focus a hair faster, than the Tamron. You say the the 45 is way better than the 50 nikkor.. Have you bought the 85mm, in the meantime ? What do you reckon? PS: I wish Tamron put out a 135mm f1.8/f2 with VC . I would BUY it , hands down!
Hello Dustin! Really great review! Thank you . The shot with the bokeh balls looks pretty good. I didn't think the lens' bokeh rendering was this good. At least in the center. One of the things that i agree with you the most (and you've said this in multiple reviews..) is that.. its great to having a great IQ lens,, but if the AF sucks.. well.. I've been told the Nikon 85mm f1.8G is a tad quicker than this tammy..in the AF department. I've been trying to figure out if i'll just go that route..or go with the Tamron. I want the Tamron to be better..hehe.. but .. have you got any idea .. or any feedback from any Nikon user on this matter ?? I'll go with the G lens if i am able to get more in-focus-shots. Thanks again!
Hi Dustin. Great review. Very intrigued by this lens. Just. a question. At higher shutter speed will the image be softer if vr is turned on ? Thanks good job on the reviews.
That really seems to be hit or miss. Sometimes there is no difference, sometimes there is. I turn it on when I really need it, as the AF locks on faster with the VC turned off.
Awesome review, Dustin! Quick question: Would you say this is a good complementary lens to an Otus 85mm 1.4? I'm certain the Tamron won't be as sharp as the Otus, but after my weekend shoot, I'm wondering if the Tamron would be a lens to look for if I decide to shoot with AF with faster moving subjects. Also, I read that this lens is made in China. Does this raise any concerns in the long run? Have you had any issues in the past with lenses made in China? Thanks for any input!
+twistedjiji Complimentary to the Otus? Do you shoot 85mm enough that you need two? The Otus is sharper in the center, but the Tamron is on the edges. If you really think you need two 85mm lenses, then yes, I think the Tamron would compliment the Otus in that you would take as much of an image quality hit as with other lenses. I'm not thrilled that it is made in China, but I've been assured that it is a new, modern Tamron factory and that the quality should be the same. We'll see. So far my copy seems good.
Hi Dustin, I noticed that you tested the new samyang RF 85mm AF, what's your feedback on it, compare to the Tamron SP 85mm, did you notice a very big difference between both ? I'm currently equipped with an EOS RP. Thanks in advance for your feedback Greg
I own the Tamron, and I'm happy with it. I like the smaller size, am very happy with the image quality, like having the image stabilizer, and feel the autofocus is a bit more accurate than the Sigma. If I worked in the studio all the time, though, I'd go for the Sigma. I think it is a slightly better portrait lens.
+Pokefreak 13 They are both nice lenses. I found the Tamron has a little more overall sharpness/resolution and is a little more accurate in the autofocus department. The Sigma excels at really great subject isolation, though. If you want weather sealing the Sigma is out. Having the Tamron's stabilizer is nice, too. I don't think there is a bad choice there.
+Dustin Abbott that's quite interesting to hear. Either way I'm content with my Sigma but I would probably recommend the Tamron to friends since it is a bit cheaper!
Nice review. I recently bought the Tamron 35mm f/1.8 for shooting dog photography and was very impressed with the lens. I might consider the Tamron 85mm at some point, cause the 85mm Milvus's manual focus makes it too unreliable fore shooting dogs and the weather proofing is good for shooting outdoors.
You blame manual focus on the milvus for focus being unreliable? I guess no one shot moving subjects before AF. Oh I, and many others, shot pro sports for SI in the 80s, pre-AF...
Bangs head against wall... Wow, some people do take things out of context. Having worked with cameras since 1989 (had a degree in film making 2001 and worked as a cameraman (often using manual lenses), so I am aware of what you can do with a camera and manual focus unlike older film cameras but the D800 focus system is not set up for shooting with manual focus lenses and the view finder does not give me enough accuracy to focus (even with a Nikon Dk-17M Magnifying Eyepiece). The D800 is a 36mp camera, whilst a 35mm film is around 16mp, which means that you can see much more detail, which is noticeable on larger MP cameras. Also how many pro sports photographers were shooting moving subjects at f/1.4? Yes, I can pre-focus the camera but dogs, move around an awful lot, particularly their heads, which will turn with every bit of movement they see or sound they hear. I could also shoot at a higher aperture but I like different options. I shoot with a variety of manual lenses and have shot my own dog (a lively whippet/Greyhound cross) with both a 58mm and 85mm and have got some great photos but when shooting for a client I do not want to have a limited number of images I can use. Using AF means I have more options. So please, do just assume people are idiots when you post a reply.
he said: "cause the 85mm Milvus's manual focus makes it too unreliable fore shooting dogs" The LENS'S focus is too unreliable. Not "I can't do manual focus." And he never said he'd do anything at 1.4. People act like they can't take photos with MF and my point is that photographers shot everything manual focus until maybe 20 years ago. No one shoots sports at 1.4 because 500mm lens's are probably 5.6 or f8. Nice dark viewfinders. Get a Milvus and spend a few $ getting a new screen.
I apologise if my original comment was a bit rude. It just pisses me off when people read far to much into a throw away comment. ""cause the 85mm Milvus's manual focus makes it too unreliable fore shooting dogs" The LENS'S focus is too unreliable." I concede that I could have said 85mm Milvus in combination shooting at wide open apertures with modern DSLR, with an auto focus screen makes it unreliable to shooting moving dogs (or people for that matter) but I didn't think that people would be so pedantic, when interpenetrating my original comment. Should I have to spell out everything explicitly or is it ok to make a general comment? " I guess no one shot moving subjects before AF. Oh I, and many others, shot pro sports for SI in the 80s, pre-AF..." When you talk to people like an idiot (which your comment does, in its ironic tone in the first sentence and the smugness of the second particularly when bringing up the Sports Illustrated (I guess that is what you mean by "SI", I am English and have never read the magazine)), points tend to be lost Talking down to people is not a good way of getting your point over (I mentioned f/1.4 because it was relevant to my original comment. The 85mm Milvus is a f/1.4 lens, the entire reason for having that lens is because of the depth of field you get from shooting at open wide apertures. Again I didn't think I needed to spell it out. BTW, I don't need to get a Milvus, I already own the 85mm f/1.4 Milvus and if you are suggesting I replace the AF screen on the camera, that really is not practical or possible for every DSLR (Including my D800 as far as I am aware). I could buy a D700 and replace the AF screen in that time and technology moves on I already own a Fuji X-E1 which I pretty much use manual focus lenses 90% of the time. Now I have wasted too much time on this post already (it was 5am when I started writing). I wish you all the best with your photography and I hope you have a happy and fulfilling life.
Hi, Dustin. Thanks for another fantastic review. I have a quick question. I realize that Sigma 50-100 1.8 and this Tamron are different in both form and function, but as a general portrait lens on a CROP body would you recommend one over the other?
+Peter Kim Peter - both of these lenses are optically exceptional, with the edge (on a crop) going to the Sigma wide open but the Tamron stopped down a bit. I think your bigger question is what size you are comfortable with. The Sigma is a MUCH bigger lens that weighs more than twice as much as the Tamron. The Sigma will have more versatility (zoom range), but at the cost of much bigger size and no VC/weather sealing. The Tamron has versatility (no zoom) and is a little less sharp wide open on crop.
Just picked up mine today. For whatever reason, the autofocus is clearly not calibrated right, do you know if this is a common issue? The autofocus is off by about an inch and a half.
+Benjamin Fisher That's coming soon, I believe. Today is the day that Canada finally gets stock. I wrote a review for one of Canada's photo magazines that will launch with the camera.
So I have the 5DS and I currently have the 85 1.2 II - I haven't been super happy with the focus speed and accuracy of the 1.2 L, I also find it is horrific on CA wide open. I'm considering selling it to get this and save some money. Would you say the Tamron comparable IQ wise to the 85 1.2? And also are the Tamron SP's high enough resolution for the 5DSR's Sensor? Thanks for the amazing channel and content!
+Jesse Wride As far a absolute resolution, the Tamron is much sharper overall. The Canon isn't really equal until maybe f/4. Take a look here: www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=1047&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=0&API=0&LensComp=397&CameraComp=0&FLIComp=0&APIComp=0 The Tamron also has far less CA. The Canon is revered more for the overall look to its images more so than its absolute image quality, so yes, I do think you will find this Tamron resolving higher and hopefully giving image quality that you love. I think the overall "look" of the images from the lens are very nice. It's hard to recommend anyone sell the 85L II because it is an amazing lens, but if you aren't satisfied with it the Tamron is certainly worth a shot.
Hi Dustin! I have some hard time choosing between the Tamron 85 or the Sigma art 85. What would be your choice? Another option would be the Sigma art 135 but I do shoot photos both outdoor and studio/indoor (most outdoor). And if going for the Sigma 135, should the Sigma art 50 be a good choice for studio photos (portrait). Have a great weekend!
About the VC issue... on the side by side comparison, the image taken with 1/500 was way sharper than the one taken with 1/250. Are you sure the 1/500 was the VC one?
Dear Dustin, I just bought the 85 vc after watching your videos. I noticed in total silent that when the vibration control engages and disengages it makes a squiky sound, even metallic at times. Did you noticed a similar behavior or is it my copy?
Dustin, I went to a Henry's store here in Toronto and I tried out two different lens - something is wrong with the IS for sure. At F1.8 we could not get a sharp shot with the 5DSR. Went put the lens on the A7Rii and it was tack sharp - both lenses every time. All the sales people started getting involved because no one could believe it. 1/60 to 1-80, F1.8 on the eye - and it looks like blurr is happening. Turn of the IS and then it is sharp. This lens has all the potential but something is messed up. Do not buy this lens until something is fixed.
+Paul O'Neil I definitely didn't encounter anything extreme like that, and I shot a number of direct comparisons with and without and in most of them couldn't tell a difference...at all. But another reviewer described something more like what you said. I'm actually working at purchasing my review copy - I really like the lens.
On the A7Rii every shot came out perfect. On the 5DSR, 90% of shots at SS below 1/80 and F1.8, shot on an eyeball came out blurry with IS on - take if off and there was an obvious improvement. I went it to buy the lens and walked out. I want this lens badly for my 5DSR - the multiple sales guys couldn't believe it - said they would talk to the Tamron rep.
+Dustin Abbott both exactly the same. I was really pissed - as I really want to own this lens. I was going to trade in my 85L II for it. I can confirm it does work on the A7Rii. There is a video online of someone showing video footage with this lens with the IS ON - and you can see in the video that it works for a few seconds, and then there is a twitch (looks like a reset of sort) and then good again - and then another twitch. It is almost like this is happening and it reveals itself when you shoot F1.8 at close distance on an eyeball - DoF is so thin and it is like a blurr is happening with the IS. I just wanted to say thanks for your video because I would never have tested it thoroughly enough in the store and found this issue without your video.
Great and in depth reviews Sir! Very much helpful indeed. I along with my brother are planning to start wedding photography and I need your suggestion on buying the best budget gear as a startup. Now to fill you up here I have seen many reviews n discussions over a past one month and in my budget I have come to the conclusion that we need two full frame bodies (which cant come in our budget so one full frame which would be canon 6d and the other crop censor probably 70d). Now the main thing, lenses, need your suggestion. In my knowledge so far a Tamron 24-70 f2.8 along with an Tamron 85 f1.8 would deliver us a good starting thing in our budget. BUT, if i want to replace the zoom lens with a prime, as the primes seem to be better what best option do we have? a Sigma 35 f1.4 / Tamron 35 f1.8? or any other focal range lens? or how about we get a 35mm lens n pair it up with a canon 135 f2 lens dropping the 85mm? In simple words what best pair of any lens (probably 2 lenses bcz we dont have a budget for 3) would you suggest us which can do the event job with a beautiful image quality? Thank you so much.
I would probably recommend the 85mm over the 135mm considering that one of your bodies will be APS-C. 135mm is really long on APS-C. Either the Sigma or Tamron 35mm are nice choices, though I did get more consistent focus results out of the Tamron. The bonus to the Tamron, also, is that it has really, really high magnification, which would be good for ring or decoration shots.
+Dustin Abbott I know you shoot Canon, but is there anyway you can try to test the new D500? I am getting a new camera soon and I've tested and tried the D610 and the IQ is great, but from the samples I've seen, the D500 gives it a run for its money, especially with that AF system and it's an APS-C body.
+floex831 I just don't have time to move into another camera system, particularly to review a camera body (a very time consuming process). You are better off finding a good Nikon reviewer that is already familiar with the Nikon ecosystem.
u r the best reviewer on RUclips from my point of view, keep on the nice work but I had a question about this lens, I have read some reviews on the web that this lens has some focusing issue or focusing flaw, is this true? and may it differ from canon cameras to Nikon ones?
My experience says that there is sometimes some sample variation with all new lenses. My copy of this lens is the best focusing third party lens I've ever used.
Very nice review Dustin, im in a market for a 85mm prime for my 6d mk2 and i just want to ask, will u recommend this over the sigma 85 f1.4 non art, i've seen your review on that lens and it may be old but i think its still pretty good and how much difference does an f1.4 compare to f1.8 in terms of out of focus background. Thank you very much.
I do think the Tamron is a very nice choice. It focuses very accurately, and has nice bokeh. The Sigma 85 EX does have very nice rendering, though. Expect AF to be a little slower and less accurate, though I got pretty good results with it.
That's very strange, as when I did an in depth showdown among the top 85mm contenders, the Tamron did very well despite being the most inexpensive option. I tested four different 85mm lenses for weeks! ruclips.net/video/UkXDe6n9bOk/видео.html
+Md. Shahnewaz Islam I'm afraid the Milvus has been returned. The gear I review is loaned to me by the companies. As to your question, that would depend. I personally chose the Tamron, but that is because I prefer having AF at that focal length.
Great review backed up with clear image examples. Looking for a back up for my zeiss 85 1.4 . This Tamron just might be it. Amazing image quality, so it seems. Thnx for uploading. Good Job mate (b.t.w you probably dont remember but after your advise on the sigma 50 100 vs canon 70 200 isii I went with your advise to go with the 70 200 2.8. Couldnt be happier, what a lens+) Again thnx for uploading. These reviews are really a big help for those who can't test all lenses themselves before buying!
+MisterMaster4life It is certainly a big advantage to be able to spend extended time with all of these lenses. Even if you get to handle them in a camera shop it can be hard to get a real sense of their performance.
Should i buy the tamron 85 1.8 or the canon 85 1.8? Wich one is better, the image quality is the most important for me. Thanks and sorry for my bad english
Dustin Abbott Yea, it gets worse. In the last year I've purchased the Sigma 50mm art lens, Canon 70-200, Tamron 24-70 and a Canon 5D m4 and haven't used any of them. I work a lot and decided to get these while I had the$
+Colin Cubitt Most all of the photos shown in the review are on full frame - though all of the tracking photos were on the 80D. I did shot some stills with the 80D and found them quite nice. It gives you roughly the perspective of a 135mm f/2 lens on crop.
Hi, I am wondering about its T-stop. Its 35mm cousin has a relatively poor T-stop in comparison with other 35mm f/1.8 lens. I am curious to know if this lens is exempt from that characteristics. I hope I didn't miss any information.
+Aaron Yang You may have to wait for something like DXO to give that definitive number, but I will say that the lens compared favorably to the new Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 in this regard (Tamron was a little brighter at equal settings), so I expect its probably pretty good as this is typically something that Sigma does fairly well.
Quick question - how useful is this for 'macro' work - I don't do much macro, but occasionally I'll want to take a picture of say a leaf, or flower, or something thats relatively close. Would this lens be able to focus close enough for just normal flower photography? Thanks!
Take a look at my image gallery and see if some the images there like you describe meet your needs. You can always throw an extension tube on there to increase magnification. I've gotten some gorgeous results that way. It works pretty well (though I find using extension tubes a little frustrating at times.) You can see one of my extension tube shots here: www.flickr.com/photos/thousandwordimages/28647957860
+Dustin Abbott Seems like it was well worth the wait. I've read the review on TDP as well as another site that mentions slight focus shifts with their copies. Did you notice any with your copy?
This was my first prime purchase early last year, and I made a wise choice, trying to avoid Canon prices. And as you stated, the inferiority. At 1.8, I don’t have to worry about an out-of-focus eye where the other is in.
My experience with the Canon 85mm 1.8 is that it has good optics and amazing focus speed. The Nikon 1.8G on the other hand has much better optics, but doesn't focus very fast. The Sigma 85mm 1.4 has both excellent optics and very zippy focus. This new Tamron is very exciting indeed. I might replace my Sigma with it, but will need to test it first :)
I still haven't had a look at this. I bought the Tamron 45mm and must say, the AF is rather slow, though the optics are superb. With this 85mm though, (just like the Tamron 45mm) I think the VC is the biggest selling point. These new Tamron prime lenses seem more suited to posed shots (and video production) than capturing moments.
Me too. I fully expect the Sigma ART to be sharper, but I suspect it will also be twice as big. The bigger question is will it focus as consistently as the Tamron.
Yeah the problem with people's thinking this is overpriced for an f/1.8 lens is that until Tamron's new line f/1.8 lenses were always the cheap budget option for people who couldn't afford better. What Tarmon has done that confused a lot of people is make pro grade, high end primes that are f/1.8 instead of f/1.2 or f/1.4. This allowed them to make a lens that was a much better balance of price, features, size build quality, and image quality than the pro grade f/1.2-f/1.4 lenses from Canon, Sigma, and Nikon. IMO the new Tamron f/1.8 primes are the best value for money primes you can currently buy, especially the 85mm. Cheaper lenses are a significant step down in all areas and more expensive ones basically only give you a faster aperture while not having many of the features or the beautiful overall rendering with the perfect balance of sharpness, great bokeh, contrast, and color saturation the Tamron f/1.8 lenses have.
+josh885 Agreed on all points, including the fact that many people will be confused by the f/1.8 aperture and falsely consider these lenses overpriced as a result.
Dustin, you are one credible review source here on RUclips that I enjoy immensely. Factual to the point with no gimmicks. Keep up the great work 👍
So far, I've used the lens for a wedding and a portrait session and I concur with everything Dustin says in this review. I value the VC more than I would an f/1.4 aperture. For me, this is a general portrait lens on a full frame body, and a photojournalism lens on both full-frame and crop bodies. The bokeh is very nice overall. I'm happy with the image quality and the fact that the lens is relatively affordable. Also, it's just a pleasure to use.
+Chev Ford Nice to hear some real world feedback.
I have an 80D. Don’t work for portraits? Thanks.
Hi Chev Ford, does the VC makes the quality of this lens degrade ? is it ok to turn on VC for your portrait wedding ?
When I decided on Full-Frame, I have the Canon 24-70, 24-105 and 100-400 'L' lenses. In the last year, I've gone Tamron. The 15-30, the 45 and 85mm lenses are what I use almost exclusively, now. They are rock-solid, sharp, and the VC helps a great deal. I am enjoying my photography more.
They are really solid lenses.
I just started shooting with the Tamron 35mm, gives me that wider field of view. The VC is utterly awesome and the low light capability and sharpness as such conditions, blows any other lens out of the water in my experience. It is my new favorite lens!!
Enjoy. It is a great value lens, for sure.
I appreciate this review. I was particularly happy to see the bokeh examples. This seems to be an incredible blend of sharpness and soft backgrounds.
It's a fairly high end rendering for the price.
Thanks so much for this review! I thoroughly enjoy listening to you, out of all the countless reviews I read/view for lenses. You've really helped me out with my next lens purchase. Much appreciated!
That's very kind. Thank you!
Outstanding review. I am elated with the Tamron 2016 90mm macro, and the 85 looks incredibly impressive as well.
+David Arbogast Both very nice lenses!
Really thinking about adding this lens. I have and love the 45mm. This should be a nice upgrade from my Canon 85mm 1.8
It's a very strong lens. I've gotten a lot of great use out of it.
Dustin, got a new update about the 85. Went back into the store with my 5DSR and 1DX II to test it out again. If you turn off the Peripheral Illum Correction, the opaque circles go away on the 1DX II. This also happens with the Sigma 35 1.4 Art - and the same solution works. Because of your review, I really wanted to figure out how to make this thing work. First of all, both copies that I tested before, and again today, I had not given enough MFA adjustment in store to get it tack sharp on the 5DSR at F1.8 - you don't see it on the 1Dx II but you see it on the 5DSR - both copies needed +10. The second thing I learned, because clearly the Tamron VC is different, is that on the 5DSR, placing the camera in AI Servo mode made a real difference when VC was ON - for whatever reason, it just works significantly better on the 5DSR - enough that I traded in the 85L II. So, +10MFA and AI-Servo and bamb - it is fantastic. I don't specifically like the fact that when the VC engages the lens shifts up moving the focus point, that is kind of weird, but I can get use to that. I also bought the 45 to give it a go.
+Paul O'Neil The AF servo fix would work because the VC is staying on and engaged rather than going on and off. AFMA is pretty huge for many lenses. I've got my copy dialed in on my bodies and it seems to really be delivering for me. Interesting about the VC moving the viewfinder image. That was a positive for me and other reviewers. You've managed to find all the quirks, but I'm glad you didn't give up on the lens. I continue to be really impressed by it.
Incredible reviews. Serious and professional!
Thanks!
Who needs a shallower DOF when you already get such incredible bokeh wide open?? :)
Tamron really did a great job on their SP series.
Fantastic review, enjoyed how you articulated everything clearly. Thanks for making this!!
Thanks for the nice feedback...and you're welcome!
Hello Dustin I ended up getting the 85mm f/1.8 DI VC instead of getting the 24-70mm, love your reviews continue with creating great content
That’s the plan. Thanks
I am trying to make a decision between the Tamron SP 85mm f1.8 and the Sigma Art f1.4 for my nikon d750. The Tamron obviously offers things like VC and weather sealing which is amazing. But I don't know if the Tamron is really superior over the Sigma one. Is the Sigma Art 85mm really worth the extra money? I would love to know your opinion!
Thanks for your great videos and reviews Dustin!
That depends on what you want to do and how important compact size is. The Sigma is near double the size. I find the Sigma a better studio lens, but the Tamron a better general purpose lens.
Dustin Abbott Thank you so much Dustin. Your answer helped me a lot to make my final decision 🙏🏻
@@DustinAbbottTWI HI. I just wanted to share my same concern with the Tamron vs. Sigma Art. 1.4 . I LOVE the quality I got when renting the Sigma for portraits. I have not performed any in-studio testing, however. I was ready to plop down (credit card only) the $1,200 for the Sigma, but, then saw the Tamron a few months ago (I guess it's been out for what...3 years now?? Where have I been?) and cannot find the Tamron to rent/compare with the Sigma. But, if what I've heard you and other say (except one fellow....bald fellow...not gonna mention any names), this lens would seem (especially after also renting the Nikon 1.8 (that did an okay job on an impromptu outdoor shoot, but, felt like a plastic toy in build quality), I might just end up buying it, throwing in the dice and see what happens on my Nikon D800. Just ONE question, please...what would cause you to say the Sigma makes for a better studio lens as opposed to an outdoor, more general purpose lens? Thanks for your time.
Thanks so much for sharing. There are many fine lens reviewers out there, however you seem to go the extra mile. I find that the out in the field-testing that you provide, to be most insightful for me to gain a better understanding of what I could expect in real world use.
That's my goal.
Dustin really u are the best i love all ur reviews and what i like more that u are always the first one reviewing the new photography gear
+slim HaTOri katana I'm always happy to be first, too! I try not to rush the reviews, though. I generally spend 2-3 weeks with everything before I report.
Excellent review (as always)! Was already interested, but definitely gonna buy this lens now thanks to your review. Cheers
+TJ543345 thanks for the nice feedback. I own this lens myself, and continue to enjoy it
Great review, thanks. Now I have to get one for my collection.
It's a great lens.
Thank you. Your reviews, and Matt Granger's reviews, of the Tamron lenses are fantastic. Very helpful to me in deciding to go with Tamron lenses for my Nikon D750. Subscribed. Liked. Commented.
Wow this will go with my 7D Mark II, Fantastic Stills, wonder how good Performs the VC for handheld video.
If you ever have a chance, Love that focal length and aperture for video when there is plenty of distance
I'm using this lense. It's really good. I like the color, contrast and VC of this lense.
I enjoy it, too!
I was to order the Nikon 85 1.8, but Dustin review sold me on the Tamron. I love, love, love the color rendition and the bokeh. The images are just beautiful. The bad news it is tough to get a tack sharp at F2, it worked one time out of ten for me. My copy also has the battery drain problem, I plugged it in the computer for 10 minutes to transfer pictures and a quarter of the battery was gone. This is a repeatable problem.
I've never heard of the battery drain problem on this lens. The only way the lens could drain the battery is if the VC remains on, and even that would be incapable of draining 1/4th of the battery in ten minutes. As far as tack sharp photos, it sounds like you need to calibrate focus on your camera body for the lens.
Yes, I have searched to see any other has battery drain problem and there was none. I was surprised too. I would have kept the lens if there was no battery drain problem. Because even when the image is not stack sharp, it is still beautifully rendered.
Solid work once again, Dustin! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this lens. I currently have the Canon 85 1.8, and while it was a killer lens in the film era it falls short in today's digital world. The only thing stopping me from trading it for the Tamron, however, is the highly anticipated but still only rumored Sigma 85 Art. Exciting times ahead!
By the way, the issue with VC leading to ever so slightly softer images is something I experience with my Tamron 24-70 2.8 VC. I usually turn it off except when really needed.
+Eivind Hasle Amundsen Thank you, Eivind. I suspect the Image Stabilization issue is one that affects many lenses.
gosh, that sharp hair comming out of the noise, I'm sold!
Why is my love towards prime lenses so deep?;) [a very consistent review; carry on, Dustin ]
Thanks, Mario
great review as usual and as expected.....
+max factor I do my best to be consistent!
My Tamron SP was my first prime purchase (early 2020) and I’m glad to know I made a wise choice as a newbie. I wanted to save on Canon’s f/1.4 L.
It's a very strong lens for the money.
My copy suffered from significant focus shift. Front focused at f1.8 requiring +16 AFMA and all the way through to f8 where it back focused -7 AFMA was needed (results from Reikan FoCal). I was unable to set a workable compromise on my EOS 1DX so unfortunately I had to return it - unfortunate because when it did focus it produced very nice images. Such a pity as I really wanted to like this lens.
That's a shame, Bob. I haven't had any real issue with that.
Fantastic review, thanks. Would you expect it to perform similarly on a Canon RP? (with an EF - EOS R adaptor)
In many ways the focus works better, actually.
Thanks a lot for this review Dustin, I just bought this lens, and really loved all your comments. My main reason was to buy this one is that I am going to Iceland in a near future. Weather sealing is great! I have another question, nothing to do with this video, I can't find your review of the Fotodiox panasystem for my Tamron 15-30, do you have the link at hand? Thanks a lot !!! Best for you , Daniela from Uruguay.
Here you go: bit.ly/1LQKbX1
Amazing review!
would you choose Tamron 45mm for portrait (Long shot and head shot) as well or just pick 85 for portrait photography?
I see those as complimentary rather than competing lenses. I like them both for different situations.
I have also heard that using VC vs non-VC that you will get a sharper w/o VC. Even on my Nikon 70-200 2.8 VC But when in doubt there is nothing wrong with using a tripod :-) In the old film days I used a tripod with my Hblad medium format all the time, mainly for composition in scenics and some fashion/portrait photography. Great video Dustin.
+hawg427 I rarely turn VC/IS etc... with many of my lenses, but I do know that it isn't unusual to get the absolute best results with it off (far less true with longer telephoto lengths, though).
Just ordered the 45 and 85. Thanks for the review.
+Captain Zouave My pleasure. You will enjoy the lenses.
Dustin Abbott i've sold the 45mm, after a few months, mostly because I prefer my Zeise 50 makro planar and 50 1.4 milvus. At lengths of 85mm and longer, I really like having an auto focus option.
I just got back from another Southeast Asia trip with this lens and a quick look of my shots, I am extremely impressed. There were days when I did not want to lug the Canon 70-200 2.8II and picked this lens instead. I believe I always left VC on, partly because I was shooting too spontaneously to turn it off (and was sick with strep), and shot generally F2.2 to 2.8, with a jump to around 5.6 or F8. I suppose I'll never know if I would have benefited from turning VC off, but from what I see so far, I have no concerns.Although I am a huge 50mm and 100 (Zeiss) MF shooter, I liked the autofocus a lot on this 85. It seems much quicker to lock on than the 45 I had.
I'm puzzled as to why I prefer the performance of this 85 to the 45 I had. I believe I like the bokeh better, the AF seems faster but perhaps it is just a focal length I needed more. The 45 was nice, but this 85 seems nicer.
Hello Dustin,
I have bought the tamron 45 and 85mm lenses based on your videos and am extremely happy with both. I know this is an old video but do you think that the issue with the "less sharp" images when using the vc could be due to random focus shift issues? It has happened to me occasionally and it seems like the focus is just slightly off rather than the image being soft. It is hard to be sure though as the effect is not heavily pronounced.
Thank you.
That's possible, and the IS could contribute to that.
thank you Dustin for this review! Always to the point :)
+georgepahountis It did take me a little time to get it out, this time!
Dustin, The VC part here is main feature people are looking at it. Double the price of Nikon 85mm 1.8G for VC? is that really worth it? As for me, I would use an off-camera flash instead to compensate for the low shutter speed.
I think the build quality and image quality easily justifies the price. It competes very favorably with the more expensive f/1.4 lenses.
Super informative and professional - extremely helpful! Many thanks.
Glad to help out!
Hi, i have the tamron 24-70 f2.8 and with vr on the image is soft in most of the shots, i shoot with vr OFF! Great review!thanks
Interesting. I own that lens, too, and I've shot almost exclusively with it on over time.
I also use the 24-70 with VC switched on. I'll have to test this slightly concerning hypothesis.
I would love to see a comparison between this lens and canons new 85 1.4 L lense. Is that gonna be a future comparison Dustin?
I don't see why not, since I own the Tamron.
Hey Dustin, on the landscape photos you took with the VC turned ON and OFF. Was those using a tripod or hand held?
I been wanting to upgrade my older Canon 85mm f/1.8 USM lens. But not sure why but all the photos in this video looked to soft in viewing in 1080p HD. Perhaps its just the way you encoded the video..
They are handheld. It wouldn't really be a test of VC on/off if is was tripod mounted. The photos are exceptionally sharp. Are you sure you were streaming in 1080p? Things look pretty sharp on my monitor.
Dustin Abbott LOL true, I just wasnt sure after watching the video if you was holding or had mounted. My head ache is driving me crazy today and I CRS. Yea was watching at 1080p, double checked. Likely just youtubes compression or what not. I really want to try this lens out. Most of the 85's on the market are starting to show their age on cameras with smaller pixel pitches like the 5DSR and pretty much all recent APS-C cameras. My Canon 85mm f/1.8 is still holding up, but just barely. Was considering the Sigma 50-100 Art, but I rather have something smaller, not locked to only APS-C and have some form of stabilization. Thanks Dustin for taking the time to reply. Cheers, Joe :-)
Agree about the 'VC' comments, I upgraded firmware and VC options, thinking there was a problem, but imho VC should be switched off for any shutter speeds above fifteenth of a second! When experimenting with it when I first got it I thought the VC/not VC images at speeds up to 1/1000, as high as I went, were reversed! Other than the VC with extreme caution 'issue' the optical quality is really excellent..
It's an interesting quirk, for sure.
Hi Dustin! Do you think this lens share the same optical design as Batis 85mm F/1.8? I own the Batis 85mm F/.8 for my Sony mirror less cameras and am very happy with the images it produces. I have acquired a D500 recently and am thinking if this lens would be a worthy addition for portraiture.
+Steven Lui I've wondered the same because of some rumors out there. I don't get a denial or an affirmative from the Tamron people. I'm willing to be you will get a roughly similar result from these two lenses, though.
+Dustin Abbott Thanks Dustin!
+Dustin Abbott Another great review, as always. I am going to try this lens next week and compare my results to your's, this is how I check for lens variation. At least with one other person. I am excited, thanks again for the great review.
+floex831 That's a good idea.
I really like your reviews. I think I will buy this lens.
I've really enjoyed mine.
Speaking of image quality- very nice looking video!
Thanks :)
Great review content Dustin I'm torn between this lens the Tammy 85mm f/1.8 or the Tammy 24-70mm f/2.8 G2 cause I haven't own a 24-70mm zoom range and I used to owned a 85mm f/1.4D. Take a coin flip and go from there but I have seen so much positive reviews on the Tamron 85mm f/1.8
I really like the 85, but a 24-70 is a more versatile tool.
Hi Dustin. Would you invest on this lens if you already use de EF 100mm 2.8 Macro for portraits? Would you prefer one over the other?
I have both those lenses (actually the 100L Macro), and use them for different purposes. But yes, those focal lengths are pretty close.
Damn it, I'm gonna get this lens right now. You've convinced me with all that nice information.
Enjoy. I purchased this lens after this review and have gotten a lot of great use out of the lens.
Dustin Abbott Thanks, I'll let you know when I get it.
This Tamron or Nikon 1.8G? Mainly wedding sessions, maybe few dances if the hall is large enough. I am interested in sharpness, bokeh and AF speed/consistency. All other things, like CA aren't issue for me. Using D600, always fullframe mode.
I don't shoot Nikon, so I can't comment on the Nikon lens. I can tell you that I purchased the Tamron and have loved it.
Thank you for your input.
Thanks for the detailed review. I was looking for something better than my Nikon 85 f/1.8G lens. Happy at the end of your reviews you leave a reference for us Nikon shooters. I like the manual focusing ring on this series by Tamron, much better than Nikon's 1.8G series which seems a after thought. The 1.8G series have that cheap plastic build about them that does not inspire much confidence. I replaced the 50mmf/1.8G with the Tamron 45mm f/1.8 Di VC USD and never looked back. This lens should complete my prime line up unless... Tamron unveils a 24mm for this series; one can only hope.
I've personally petitioned Tamron for something in the 20-24mm range, and I would be satisfied with a maximum aperture of f/2 if they could keep the size reasonable.
Dustin Abbott Agree with the f/2 and keeping the size and weight down. My Sigma 24-35 f/2 shoots lovely landscape, but I find the weight and bulk a bit much for carry like wide angle street photography. I had a 20mm f/1.8G, was too wide for me. If Tamron can build a 24mm f/2 with the same pro build quality... then count me in.
the 24mm f1.8G is known to being pretty great.! too.
I've got the 15-30mm f2.8 tamron.. and although it is a beast of a lens.. it is also a 'beast' of lens.. hehehe, if you know what i mean. :P
I'm with you on the 45mm..,
I just haven't gone for it because i bought a Fuji.. and it is great to have no-shutter sound when shooting mirrorless. So.. all the close-distance focal lenses i have been trying to go mirrorless. You get a lot of great candids because ppl don't realize you're there..and shooting away.. multiple shots!
I've got the 41mm f2.8 equivalent (pancake) and the 24mm f1.4 equivalent. The latter is utterly amazing! Check it out!
As for the 85mm.. well.. my 85mm f1.8 D 'kissed the concrete' the other day.. so it is not at 100%.
I have been contemplating this lens.. or basically go Sony.
I've been talking to a couple of ppl who own both and they told me the Nikon G focus a hair faster, than the Tamron. You say the the 45 is way better than the 50 nikkor.. Have you bought the 85mm, in the meantime ?
What do you reckon?
PS: I wish Tamron put out a 135mm f1.8/f2 with VC . I would BUY it , hands down!
Hello Dustin!
Really great review! Thank you .
The shot with the bokeh balls looks pretty good. I didn't think the lens' bokeh rendering was this good. At least in the center.
One of the things that i agree with you the most (and you've said this in multiple reviews..) is that.. its great to having a great IQ lens,, but if the AF sucks.. well..
I've been told the Nikon 85mm f1.8G is a tad quicker than this tammy..in the AF department.
I've been trying to figure out if i'll just go that route..or go with the Tamron.
I want the Tamron to be better..hehe.. but .. have you got any idea .. or any feedback from any Nikon user on this matter ?? I'll go with the G lens if i am able to get more in-focus-shots.
Thanks again!
Hi Dustin. Great review. Very intrigued by this lens. Just. a question. At higher shutter speed will the image be softer if vr is turned on ? Thanks good job on the reviews.
That really seems to be hit or miss. Sometimes there is no difference, sometimes there is. I turn it on when I really need it, as the AF locks on faster with the VC turned off.
Awesome review, Dustin!
Quick question: Would you say this is a good complementary lens to an Otus 85mm 1.4? I'm certain the Tamron won't be as sharp as the Otus, but after my weekend shoot, I'm wondering if the Tamron would be a lens to look for if I decide to shoot with AF with faster moving subjects.
Also, I read that this lens is made in China. Does this raise any concerns in the long run? Have you had any issues in the past with lenses made in China?
Thanks for any input!
+twistedjiji Complimentary to the Otus? Do you shoot 85mm enough that you need two? The Otus is sharper in the center, but the Tamron is on the edges. If you really think you need two 85mm lenses, then yes, I think the Tamron would compliment the Otus in that you would take as much of an image quality hit as with other lenses.
I'm not thrilled that it is made in China, but I've been assured that it is a new, modern Tamron factory and that the quality should be the same. We'll see. So far my copy seems good.
Worth to watch. Lots of details.
Will you pleas do for the Nikon 85mm F/1.8 G
I'm afraid I don't do Nikon reviews.
Hi Dustin, I noticed that you tested the new samyang RF 85mm AF, what's your feedback on it, compare to the Tamron SP 85mm, did you notice a very big difference between both ? I'm currently equipped with an EOS RP.
Thanks in advance for your feedback
Greg
Stay tuned next week for my thoughts.
great review, what would you choose in between this and the sigma art?
I own the Tamron, and I'm happy with it. I like the smaller size, am very happy with the image quality, like having the image stabilizer, and feel the autofocus is a bit more accurate than the Sigma. If I worked in the studio all the time, though, I'd go for the Sigma. I think it is a slightly better portrait lens.
Dustin Abbott thank you very much
Great review Dustin! How did you like the Tamron compared to the Sigma 85mm?
+Pokefreak 13 They are both nice lenses. I found the Tamron has a little more overall sharpness/resolution and is a little more accurate in the autofocus department. The Sigma excels at really great subject isolation, though. If you want weather sealing the Sigma is out. Having the Tamron's stabilizer is nice, too. I don't think there is a bad choice there.
+Dustin Abbott that's quite interesting to hear. Either way I'm content with my Sigma but I would probably recommend the Tamron to friends since it is a bit cheaper!
Nice review. I recently bought the Tamron 35mm f/1.8 for shooting dog photography and was very impressed with the lens. I might consider the Tamron 85mm at some point, cause the 85mm Milvus's manual focus makes it too unreliable fore shooting dogs and the weather proofing is good for shooting outdoors.
+Michael Laing Sounds like a nice application.
You blame manual focus on the milvus for focus being unreliable? I guess no one shot moving subjects before AF. Oh I, and many others, shot pro sports for SI in the 80s, pre-AF...
Bangs head against wall... Wow, some people do take things out of context. Having worked with cameras since 1989 (had a degree in film making 2001 and worked as a cameraman (often using manual lenses), so I am aware of what you can do with a camera and manual focus unlike older film cameras but the D800 focus system is not set up for shooting with manual focus lenses and the view finder does not give me enough accuracy to focus (even with a Nikon Dk-17M Magnifying Eyepiece). The D800 is a 36mp camera, whilst a 35mm film is around 16mp, which means that you can see much more detail, which is noticeable on larger MP cameras.
Also how many pro sports photographers were shooting moving subjects at f/1.4? Yes, I can pre-focus the camera but dogs, move around an awful lot, particularly their heads, which will turn with every bit of movement they see or sound they hear. I could also shoot at a higher aperture but I like different options.
I shoot with a variety of manual lenses and have shot my own dog (a lively whippet/Greyhound cross) with both a 58mm and 85mm and have got some great photos but when shooting for a client I do not want to have a limited number of images I can use. Using AF means I have more options.
So please, do just assume people are idiots when you post a reply.
he said: "cause the 85mm Milvus's manual focus makes it too unreliable fore shooting dogs" The LENS'S focus is too unreliable. Not "I can't do manual focus." And he never said he'd do anything at 1.4. People act like they can't take photos with MF and my point is that photographers shot everything manual focus until maybe 20 years ago. No one shoots sports at 1.4 because 500mm lens's are probably 5.6 or f8. Nice dark viewfinders. Get a Milvus and spend a few $ getting a new screen.
I apologise if my original comment was a bit rude. It just pisses me off when people read far to much into a throw away comment.
""cause the 85mm Milvus's manual focus makes it too unreliable fore shooting dogs" The LENS'S focus is too unreliable."
I concede that I could have said 85mm Milvus in combination shooting at wide open apertures with modern DSLR, with an auto focus screen makes it unreliable to shooting moving dogs (or people for that matter) but I didn't think that people would be so pedantic, when interpenetrating my original comment.
Should I have to spell out everything explicitly or is it ok to make a general comment?
" I guess no one shot moving subjects before AF. Oh I, and many others, shot pro sports for SI in the 80s, pre-AF..."
When you talk to people like an idiot (which your comment does, in its ironic tone in the first sentence and the smugness of the second particularly when bringing up the Sports Illustrated (I guess that is what you mean by "SI", I am English and have never read the magazine)), points tend to be lost
Talking down to people is not a good way of getting your point over (I mentioned f/1.4 because it was relevant to my original comment. The 85mm Milvus is a f/1.4 lens, the entire reason for having that lens is because of the depth of field you get from shooting at open wide apertures. Again I didn't think I needed to spell it out.
BTW, I don't need to get a Milvus, I already own the 85mm f/1.4 Milvus and if you are suggesting I replace the AF screen on the camera, that really is not practical or possible for every DSLR (Including my D800 as far as I am aware). I could buy a D700 and replace the AF screen in that time and technology moves on I already own a Fuji X-E1 which I pretty much use manual focus lenses 90% of the time.
Now I have wasted too much time on this post already (it was 5am when I started writing). I wish you all the best with your photography and I hope you have a happy and fulfilling life.
Hi, Dustin. Thanks for another fantastic review. I have a quick question. I realize that Sigma 50-100 1.8 and this Tamron are different in both form and function, but as a general portrait lens on a CROP body would you recommend one over the other?
+Peter Kim Peter - both of these lenses are optically exceptional, with the edge (on a crop) going to the Sigma wide open but the Tamron stopped down a bit. I think your bigger question is what size you are comfortable with. The Sigma is a MUCH bigger lens that weighs more than twice as much as the Tamron. The Sigma will have more versatility (zoom range), but at the cost of much bigger size and no VC/weather sealing. The Tamron has versatility (no zoom) and is a little less sharp wide open on crop.
+Dustin Abbott Thank you so much for the detailed answer! Looking forward to your next video.
Just picked up mine today. For whatever reason, the autofocus is clearly not calibrated right, do you know if this is a common issue? The autofocus is off by about an inch and a half.
I always enjoy your reviews! Thanks!
+Nicolaas Strik Glad to hear it. Thank you!
Great review as always, Dustin... Just waiting for a UK release date now...
+Benjamin Fisher That's coming soon, I believe. Today is the day that Canada finally gets stock. I wrote a review for one of Canada's photo magazines that will launch with the camera.
So I have the 5DS and I currently have the 85 1.2 II - I haven't been super happy with the focus speed and accuracy of the 1.2 L, I also find it is horrific on CA wide open. I'm considering selling it to get this and save some money. Would you say the Tamron comparable IQ wise to the 85 1.2? And also are the Tamron SP's high enough resolution for the 5DSR's Sensor? Thanks for the amazing channel and content!
+Jesse Wride As far a absolute resolution, the Tamron is much sharper overall. The Canon isn't really equal until maybe f/4. Take a look here: www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=1047&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=0&API=0&LensComp=397&CameraComp=0&FLIComp=0&APIComp=0
The Tamron also has far less CA. The Canon is revered more for the overall look to its images more so than its absolute image quality, so yes, I do think you will find this Tamron resolving higher and hopefully giving image quality that you love. I think the overall "look" of the images from the lens are very nice. It's hard to recommend anyone sell the 85L II because it is an amazing lens, but if you aren't satisfied with it the Tamron is certainly worth a shot.
Hi Dustin! I have some hard time choosing between the Tamron 85 or the Sigma art 85. What would be your choice? Another option would be the Sigma art 135 but I do shoot photos both outdoor and studio/indoor (most outdoor). And if going for the Sigma 135, should the Sigma art 50 be a good choice for studio photos (portrait). Have a great weekend!
+Jessica Cronholm I personally prefer the versatility of the Tamron and its better autofocus performance, but the Sigma may be the better studio lens.
Thanks! And the Sigma art 135 mm or the 85? I seems like you prefer the 135 mm outdoors?
I do like it outdoors. If you have a 50mm lens also, you could make a good portrait kit out of the two lenses.
About the VC issue... on the side by side comparison, the image taken with 1/500 was way sharper than the one taken with 1/250. Are you sure the 1/500 was the VC one?
That’s been several years ago, so I’m not going to dispute what I said then. I’d have no way to go back and check that now.
Dear Dustin, I just bought the 85 vc after watching your videos. I noticed in total silent that when the vibration control engages and disengages it makes a squiky sound, even metallic at times. Did you noticed a similar behavior or is it my copy?
I haven't noticed that, no.
Dustin Abbott thank you very much for your quick reply, I will check with the store to see if I can replace it...
Dustin, I went to a Henry's store here in Toronto and I tried out two different lens - something is wrong with the IS for sure. At F1.8 we could not get a sharp shot with the 5DSR. Went put the lens on the A7Rii and it was tack sharp - both lenses every time. All the sales people started getting involved because no one could believe it. 1/60 to 1-80, F1.8 on the eye - and it looks like blurr is happening. Turn of the IS and then it is sharp. This lens has all the potential but something is messed up. Do not buy this lens until something is fixed.
+Paul O'Neil I definitely didn't encounter anything extreme like that, and I shot a number of direct comparisons with and without and in most of them couldn't tell a difference...at all. But another reviewer described something more like what you said. I'm actually working at purchasing my review copy - I really like the lens.
On the A7Rii every shot came out perfect. On the 5DSR, 90% of shots at SS below 1/80 and F1.8, shot on an eyeball came out blurry with IS on - take if off and there was an obvious improvement. I went it to buy the lens and walked out. I want this lens badly for my 5DSR - the multiple sales guys couldn't believe it - said they would talk to the Tamron rep.
Paul O'Neil
That's a shame. Both lenses behaved the same?
+Dustin Abbott both exactly the same. I was really pissed - as I really want to own this lens. I was going to trade in my 85L II for it. I can confirm it does work on the A7Rii. There is a video online of someone showing video footage with this lens with the IS ON - and you can see in the video that it works for a few seconds, and then there is a twitch (looks like a reset of sort) and then good again - and then another twitch. It is almost like this is happening and it reveals itself when you shoot F1.8 at close distance on an eyeball - DoF is so thin and it is like a blurr is happening with the IS. I just wanted to say thanks for your video because I would never have tested it thoroughly enough in the store and found this issue without your video.
Paul O'Neil
Glad to help, but that's too bad. I'm obviously thankful that my copy did not exhibit that behavior.
Great and in depth reviews Sir! Very much helpful indeed. I along with my brother are planning to start wedding photography and I need your suggestion on buying the best budget gear as a startup. Now to fill you up here I have seen many reviews n discussions over a past one month and in my budget I have come to the conclusion that we need two full frame bodies (which cant come in our budget so one full frame which would be canon 6d and the other crop censor probably 70d). Now the main thing, lenses, need your suggestion. In my knowledge so far a Tamron 24-70 f2.8 along with an Tamron 85 f1.8 would deliver us a good starting thing in our budget. BUT, if i want to replace the zoom lens with a prime, as the primes seem to be better what best option do we have? a Sigma 35 f1.4 / Tamron 35 f1.8? or any other focal range lens? or how about we get a 35mm lens n pair it up with a canon 135 f2 lens dropping the 85mm? In simple words what best pair of any lens (probably 2 lenses bcz we dont have a budget for 3) would you suggest us which can do the event job with a beautiful image quality? Thank you so much.
I would probably recommend the 85mm over the 135mm considering that one of your bodies will be APS-C. 135mm is really long on APS-C. Either the Sigma or Tamron 35mm are nice choices, though I did get more consistent focus results out of the Tamron. The bonus to the Tamron, also, is that it has really, really high magnification, which would be good for ring or decoration shots.
Thank you so much for your recommendation Mr. Dustin.
+Dustin Abbott I know you shoot Canon, but is there anyway you can try to test the new D500? I am getting a new camera soon and I've tested and tried the D610 and the IQ is great, but from the samples I've seen, the D500 gives it a run for its money, especially with that AF system and it's an APS-C body.
+floex831 I just don't have time to move into another camera system, particularly to review a camera body (a very time consuming process). You are better off finding a good Nikon reviewer that is already familiar with the Nikon ecosystem.
Hi Dustin, I am really confused between sigma art and this one. Which one would you recommend. Price is not a problem.
The ART is a bit sharper, but has inferior bokeh (and is a LOT bigger). I personally like this lens, myself.
Dustin Abbott Thanks a lot, will go with this , VC might help too in case ever I need it
Dustin Abbott what does inferior bokeh mean here?
I would like to know how all new sp tamron lenses perform on Sony bodies with the mc-11 adapter. I own canon and Sony
Most of them work quite well.
very nice review i wonder if it will work as well with a crop sensor?
It works well on crop.
u r the best reviewer on RUclips from my point of view, keep on the nice work
but I had a question about this lens,
I have read some reviews on the web that this lens has some focusing issue or focusing flaw, is this true? and may it differ from canon cameras to Nikon ones?
My experience says that there is sometimes some sample variation with all new lenses. My copy of this lens is the best focusing third party lens I've ever used.
Hey Dustin, I like the way you cover most obvious scenarios. could you kindly compare this lens with zeiss batis 85 f1.8.
thanks.
I'm afraid that I don't have a Sony body to do that comparison on. Sorry!
+Dustin Abbott no worries!
Very nice review Dustin, im in a market for a 85mm prime for my 6d mk2 and i just want to ask,
will u recommend this over the sigma 85 f1.4 non art, i've seen your review on that lens and it may be old but i think its still pretty good and how much difference does an f1.4 compare to f1.8 in terms of out of focus background.
Thank you very much.
I do think the Tamron is a very nice choice. It focuses very accurately, and has nice bokeh. The Sigma 85 EX does have very nice rendering, though. Expect AF to be a little slower and less accurate, though I got pretty good results with it.
Thank you very much Dustin u certainly helped me decide w/c one to buy.
New sub here :)
Hii Dustin, im just curious after some time with this lens what do you think ? and hows the autofocus accuracy?
I continue to really like the lens. The autofocus accuracy is perhaps the best I've seen from a third party lens. Very reliable.
thanks man for the reply , have a great day
My copy is soft, at any speed, any setting, it's going on sale on eBay tomorrow. I just ordered a Sigma 85mm Art to replace it with.
That's very strange, as when I did an in depth showdown among the top 85mm contenders, the Tamron did very well despite being the most inexpensive option. I tested four different 85mm lenses for weeks! ruclips.net/video/UkXDe6n9bOk/видео.html
if u need to choose between milvus 85 and tamron 85 vc which one you will pick? and can we have a head-to-head video of this two.
+Md. Shahnewaz Islam I'm afraid the Milvus has been returned. The gear I review is loaned to me by the companies. As to your question, that would depend. I personally chose the Tamron, but that is because I prefer having AF at that focal length.
Dustin Abbott thanks I have my ans
This lens or the Sigma 85mm Art for portraits? Great vid btw!
Tough call. I think this is the more versatile lens and focuses more accurately, but the Sigma is slightly nicer at handling skin tones.
Great review backed up with clear image examples. Looking for a back up for my zeiss 85 1.4 . This Tamron just might be it. Amazing image quality, so it seems. Thnx for uploading. Good Job mate (b.t.w you probably dont remember but after your advise on the sigma 50 100 vs canon 70 200 isii I went with your advise to go with the 70 200 2.8. Couldnt be happier, what a lens+) Again thnx for uploading. These reviews are really a big help for those who can't test all lenses themselves before buying!
+MisterMaster4life It is certainly a big advantage to be able to spend extended time with all of these lenses. Even if you get to handle them in a camera shop it can be hard to get a real sense of their performance.
HI Dustin, a question: is the "vc-off" thing relevant also with the tamron 70-210 f4?
I don't think so.
Should i buy the tamron 85 1.8 or the canon 85 1.8? Wich one is better, the image quality is the most important for me. Thanks and sorry for my bad english
The Tamron is far superior optically - I'd go for it!
Good review of this lens. I've had it for some time now but am embarrassed to say have never used it.
Hmmm...that's a little unusual :)
Dustin Abbott Yea, it gets worse. In the last year I've purchased the Sigma 50mm art lens, Canon 70-200, Tamron 24-70 and a Canon 5D m4 and haven't used any of them. I work a lot and decided to get these while I had the$
Wow - you need a photography holiday!
Amazing review!!
Hi Dustin, were the portraits shot with the lens on the 80d or the 6 d?
Great review again, thank you.
+Colin Cubitt Most all of the photos shown in the review are on full frame - though all of the tracking photos were on the 80D. I did shot some stills with the 80D and found them quite nice. It gives you roughly the perspective of a 135mm f/2 lens on crop.
+Dustin Abbott Cheers Dustin, a very impressive lens.
Colin Cubitt
It really is.
Hi, I am wondering about its T-stop. Its 35mm cousin has a relatively poor T-stop in comparison with other 35mm f/1.8 lens. I am curious to know if this lens is exempt from that characteristics.
I hope I didn't miss any information.
+Aaron Yang You may have to wait for something like DXO to give that definitive number, but I will say that the lens compared favorably to the new Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 in this regard (Tamron was a little brighter at equal settings), so I expect its probably pretty good as this is typically something that Sigma does fairly well.
Thanks!
+Aaron Yang To what "other 35mm f/1.8 lens" are you comparing to? I'm not sure that I am aware of any.
Quick question - how useful is this for 'macro' work - I don't do much macro, but occasionally I'll want to take a picture of say a leaf, or flower, or something thats relatively close. Would this lens be able to focus close enough for just normal flower photography?
Thanks!
Take a look at my image gallery and see if some the images there like you describe meet your needs. You can always throw an extension tube on there to increase magnification. I've gotten some gorgeous results that way. It works pretty well (though I find using extension tubes a little frustrating at times.) You can see one of my extension tube shots here: www.flickr.com/photos/thousandwordimages/28647957860
Perfect - Thanks! I think that'll probably suit me better then getting the 90 f2.8.
Excellent Review!! Thanks for sharing!! :D
My pleasure. Thanks for the nice feedback.
I've been waiting for this!! :D
+張仁迪 I did a little waiting for it to arrive, too!!
+Dustin Abbott Seems like it was well worth the wait.
I've read the review on TDP as well as another site that mentions slight focus shifts with their copies. Did you notice any with your copy?
+張仁迪 I specifically tested for that but couldn't see it, myself.
Are the oddities with vc affecting image resolution specific to this lens or does it show up with their other prime lenses and 70-200g2?
I haven't noticed it will the other lenses.
Hello Dustin , after a long time from making this review ,do u still recommend this lens, and how is its af consistency ?
I definitely do.
thanks alot man
Dustin, does 45mm VC lens suffer from the same VC sharpness issue as the 85?
Not that I've noticed.
Another excellent review, thank you.
+John Parola You're welcome, John.
This was my first prime purchase early last year, and I made a wise choice, trying to avoid Canon prices. And as you stated, the inferiority. At 1.8, I don’t have to worry about an out-of-focus eye where the other is in.
It's a lovely lens.
My experience with the Canon 85mm 1.8 is that it has good optics and amazing focus speed. The Nikon 1.8G on the other hand has much better optics, but doesn't focus very fast. The Sigma 85mm 1.4 has both excellent optics and very zippy focus. This new Tamron is very exciting indeed. I might replace my Sigma with it, but will need to test it first :)
have u tested this lens. any thoughts? which one u prefer?
I still haven't had a look at this. I bought the Tamron 45mm and must say, the AF is rather slow, though the optics are superb. With this 85mm though, (just like the Tamron 45mm) I think the VC is the biggest selling point. These new Tamron prime lenses seem more suited to posed shots (and video production) than capturing moments.
does it work on the new a7S2 with an adaptor ? can you review that on the video aspect ?
Very nice review . Would love to see a comparison with the Nikon 1.8 G .
Sorry, I’m not a Nikon shooter.
I understand Dustin. Thank you for the reply.
Looking forward to a comparison with Sigma 85 1.4 ART.
Me too. I fully expect the Sigma ART to be sharper, but I suspect it will also be twice as big. The bigger question is will it focus as consistently as the Tamron.
I have a Canon EOS 80d and am looking for a great portraiture lens, will this lens perform well on this camera?
It works fine, yes.
recently tamron and sigma really stepping up their game..
they are not poor man lens anymore.
+max factor That's very true...and wouldn't have been 5 years ago. Great news for consumers!
Hi Dustin,, Question at 06:56 you are comparing images,, VC on and off ,, are you using a tripod during this test for both photos ??
+Gaaza G VC on and Off - these are both handheld images.
+Gaaza G I didn't consistently come up with a result like that, though. Sometimes I couldn't tell the difference.