Whilst plenty of new lenses are arriving for mirrorless cameras, the DSLR is not being neglected. Here Tamron introduce an interesting 35-150mm lens for full frame Nikon and Canon DSLR cameras, a range that covers from a moderate wide angle to a short telephoto. This includes applications from street photography to portraiture to landscape to close sports; a very versatile set of focal lengths. Let's see how the lens fares using the 50MP Canon EOS 5DS R.

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Tamron 35-150mm f/2.8-4 Di VC OSD Handling and Features

The moisture resistant construction is of high quality and the fairly bulky looking lens sits well on the Canon EOS 5DS R. It weighs in at a reasonable 790g (Nikon) or 796g (Canon). The electromagnetic diaphragm offers smooth and accurate aperture control, but in the case of Nikon bodies it needs a model that supports that system. The list of suitable models is extensive and available on the Tamron website.

A generously sized petal lens hood is provided and this bayonets securely into place. Within the bayonet fitting is a standard 77mm filter thread and within that the front element is coated with a Fluorine compound to repel moisture, dirt and grease.

The first control ring is for manual focus and this operates smoothly. It is mechanical in operation, so works even with the power switched off. Focusing is down to 0.45m or 17.7 inches. The maximum magnification is 1:3.7 which, although not a macro distance, is still extremely useful for close up photography.

The zoom ring also operates smoothly and there are clear focal length markings at 35, 50, 85, 105, 135 and 150mm.When set to 35mm a locking catch prevents the lens extending whilst being carried, although there was no sign of this being a problem during the review period.

There are two switches, one being the usual AF/MF selector and the other switching the VC (Vibration Compensation) on and off. It is recommended by Tamron that VC should be off when using a tripod.

Optical construction is 19 elements in 14 groups, including 3 Aspherical and 3 LD (Low Dispersion). The aperture comprises 9 blades and a rounded opening is ensured at least until two stops down.

The lens is also compatible with Tamron's TAP-in console (TAP-01), via which updates and some fine adjustments of lens parameters can be made. For example, the AF and VC features can be fine tuned to suit.

In use, the lens is well balanced and works extremely well. The AF is generally fast and accurate, although there are circumstances where it can end up hunting, but most of the time it is very satisfactory. The focal length range is highly practical and it makes possible a very wide range of images. Tamron bill the lens as being optimised for portraits at 85mm and certainly that is one area where it works highly efficiently. But it is not limited to that and it is a fine general purpose lens that has a lot about it to like very much.