Tamron G2 lenses offer several advantages over its first generation optics: better corner-to-corner resolution, improved lens coating, three types of VC (Vibration Compensation) Modes, faster autofocus and, overall, a much better feel in the field.
The SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 (Model A041) is its latest in the series. Available in Nikon F and Canon EF mount, the wide angle zoom is an inexpensive alternative for full frame and APS-C DSLR shooters. The compact lens features a constant maximum aperture of F2.8 while still managing to keep its weight down at 39.2 oz (1,110g) for Canon and 38.8 oz (1,100g) for Nikon. The physical length is 5.7 inches (145mm) for Canon and slightly smaller for Nikon at 5.6 inches (142.5mm). Zooming, the physical length of the lens does not change, making it friendly to use with a matte box on rails.
SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2Credit: Tamron
Optically, Tamron included its XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical) and LD (Low Dispersion) lens elements to control chromatic aberrations and three types of coatings— AX (Anti-reflection eXpand), eBand (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency), and BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection)—to diminish ghosting and flare. A 9 blade aperture produces a smooth, circular bokeh with best results coming two or three steps down from wide open.
Its autofocus is driven by a Dual MPU (Micro-Processing Unit) ring-type ultrasonic motor and offers the aforementioned VC Modes to drive stabilization. Mode 1 is its plain stabilization. Mode 2 is ideal for panning. Mode 3 stabilizes the captured images instead of the live view image. The latter seems to work best for video shooting.
Both Nikon and Canon versions feature a fluorine coating to wick away water, dirt, and dust, and are compatible with Tamron's TAP-in Console to update lens firmware and make AF or VC adjustments. The SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 will be available for Nikon F September 21 and Canon EF October 12th for $1,299.
Tech Specs:
- Focal Length: 15-30mm
- Max. Aperture: F2.8
- Min. Aperture: F22
- Optical Construction: 18 elements in 13 groups
- Minimum Object Distance: 0.28m (11 in)
- Maximum Magnification Ratio: 1:5 (f=30mm)
- Maximum Diameter Φ98.4mm
- Angle of View:
- (diagonal) 110°32'-71°35' (for full-frame DSLR cameras)
- 85°52'-49°54' (for APS-C format DSLR cameras)
- Length:
- 145mm Canon (5.7 in)
- 142.5mm Nikon (5.6 in
- Weight:
- 39.2 oz (1,110g ) Canon
- 38.8 oz (1,100g) Nikon
