Tamron’s 70-180mm F/2.8 real-life experience

If you were hoping to read a very geeky/technical/detailed review about the lens, well… Let’s get this out of the way… It’s not! Why? Because I’m just not that type of girl. See, I don’t care that much about groups and elements and filter sizes. What I really want to know is: Do I like to work with the lens and the images it provides me? Here’s my real-life experience and three reasons why I think the 70-180mm F/2.8 is a great option to consider.

Sony a9 + 70-180mm F/2.8 @ F/2.8, 180mm 

Lightweight

That’s the first impression I’ve got when I held the lens for the first time. I don’t own a 70-200mm f/2.8 but I use prime lenses – which are often on the bigger side. I’ve really enjoyed walking around with significantly lighter gear.

Sony a9 + 70-180mm F/2.8 @ F/2.8, 118mm

Great autofocus performance

Paired with my a9, I found the autofocus performance to be very similar to my native G Master primes. I’d say 95% as efficient and fast – which is really important to consider for action and sports photography. The remaining 5% leads us to the third point…

Caption: Sony a9 + 70-180mm F/2.8 @ F/2.8, 180mm

A price to make you smile

Retailed at CAD $1,649.00, it’s 50% cheaper than Sony’s 70-200mm f/2.8 (CAD $3,299.00). Would you be ready to “exchange” 5% autofocus performance and 20mm focal length to keep 1,650 bucks in your pockets – or better yet, spend it on another lens? You tell me… 🙂 

My personal opinion

As I’m about to send back the sample lens, I realize third party companies are doing a great job coming up with convenient, performing and affordable options.

I’ve had a great time using it both indoors and outdoors. If I was looking for a new telephoto zoom, Tamron’s 70-180mm F/2.8 would definitely be near the top of my list!

About the Author

MICHÈLE GRENIER is a sports photographer who specializes in BADASS action portraiture. She’s also a Photofocus author, a Skylum Software ambassador and a photography coach. You can find her at www.michelegrenierphoto.com