Review - Tamron SP AF180mm F/3.5 Di LD [IF] Macro

Choosing a Macro Lens

I already had a Sigma 105mm Macro which I was very happy with, and have kept so why did I buy this lens?  Well, mainly to get the extra working distance, I wasn't having a lot of luck photographing nervy subjects like butterflies and damselflies.  As it happens the difference in the distance from the front of the lens to the subject is only a few centimetres but it does seem to make a difference, so that's good.

I read a number of reviews of different macro lenses and came to the conclusion that image quality was similar throughout, the price difference between a Tamron and a Canon seems to be down to build quality, faster and quieter focus and the brand name.  Of these only the first point bothered me as I rarely use autofocus for macro work and have some great 3rd party lenses.  There seemed little to choose between the Sigma and Tamron so I went for the one I could get cheapest at the time. 

Using the lens

I've now had this lens for a couple of years and have been very pleased with it, it's not too heavy (which is good as my macro rig is heavy enough), it does feel a little plasticky but it's solid and the focus ring is large and smooth.  I don't often need the hood, this again is good as it would reduce the working distance and prevent me using my MT24-ex flash.

I also use this lens very successfully with a Kenko Pro300 2X Teleconverter either for extra reach or extra magnification, generally this would be tripod mounted or using flash to reduce camera shake.

It's now rare for me to use my 105mm macro which, though good is just not quite as versatile.  When you're all set up for macro and a bird lands on a wall nearby there's a better chance of being close enough with the 180mm than with the 105mm.

Image Quality

At the end of the day image quality is the most important thing and the Tamron doesn't let me down, it's extremely sharp particularly at around f8 - f16 which is the aperture range that I generally use for Macro photography.

Many of the shots in my Insect Gallery were taken with this lens so have a look and see for yourself.