Tamron 28-75mm 2.8

Tamron 28-75mm 2.8 XR Di LD Aspherical (IF) Autofocus Lens for Digital Nikon SLR

We needed an extra 2.8 lens in this range for a wedding shoot. The Nikon 28-70mm and the 24-70 were unavailable at our local camera rental shop.

Not wanting to drop $1,600 – 1,700 on a new Nikon 24-70mm AF-S lens. My only option was to go with a less expensive Tamron or Sigma lens. I asked the salesman at a local camera store for his recommendation on the Sigma 28-70mm F2.8 EX DG or the Tamron 28-75mm 2.8. He said, six one way a half dozen the other way. I went with the Tamron and was pleased with the results. My first thought was I’ll purchase the lens and ebay it when I’m finished with it. However, after using the lens I think it’s a keeper.

If you want to get started with a 2.8 lens in the 28-70mm range I have no problem recommending this Tamron lens. It’s a good beginner lens or back up lens. However, it’s not a Nikon. It does have a metal camera mount but the rest of the body of the lens is plastic and it’s very small and light for a 2.8 lens. I have not done extensive testing on this lens but I was pleased with the way it performed during the wedding. The reviews on bhphoto.com are also very postitive.

There are two models of this Tamron 28-75mm 2.8 lens. Make sure you get the one with the built in motor (Model AF09NII).

The lens without the built in motor will not work of the D40, D40x, D60, or D5000.

This lens will work on all recent Nikon DSLR cameras including the D40, D40x, D60 or D5000.

You can find it for $399 B&H photo with a $10 Tamron rebate:
Tamron 28-75mm 2.8 XR Di LD Aspherical (IF) Autofocus Lens for Digital Nikon SLR

$400 for a decent constant aperture 2.8 lens is a deal.

Here's a quick shot of a flower I took this morning... F6.3 Focal length 67mm Shutter 1/1250. Tamron does not use the term "macro" in the name. But it will focus at 13" or 33cm that's pretty darn close.