In recent decades, the Japanese manufacturer Tamron has continually included a 90mm telemacro lens in its lineup of third-party lenses, compatible with various connections for system manufacturers’ both analog and digital SLR cameras. This lens often presented an affordable yet robust alternative to the macroteles offered by system manufacturers, which typically featured slightly longer focal lengths of 100mm or 105mm.
The return of a legend: The new “Tamron 90mm F/2.8 Di III Macro VXD” (model F072) designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras with Sony E-mount and Nikon Z-mount
Japanese lens manufacturer Tamron announced the upcoming release of the new 90mm F/2.8 Di III Macro VXD (model F072) on October 24, 2024. This 1:1 mid-telephoto macro lens is tailored for full-frame mirrorless cameras featuring Sony E-mount and Nikon Z-mount.
45 years of Tamron 90mm macro lenses: The next generation
In 1979, Tamron launched its first 90mm macro lens, the SP 90mm F/2.5 (Model 52B), which transformed the macro lens concept. Renowned for its exquisite bokeh and exceptional image quality, this lens was initially utilized primarily for academic purposes but soon found versatility in other types of photography, including outdoor and portrait photography. Fondly referred to as “Tamukyu,” a blend of two Japanese words, it has gained accolades from macro, nature, and portrait photographers alike.
Compact and innovative design aimed at achieving the highest imaging performance, rooted in 45 years of tradition.
In response to evolving photographic demands, Tamron introduced innovative successor models, including the SP AF90mm F/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 (Model 272E) and the SP 90mm F/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 VC USD (Model F004). In 2016, Tamron released the SP 90mm F/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 VC USD (Model F017), advancing the F004 model. Its high-quality coating technology, combined with smooth bokeh and outstanding imaging performance, remains highly valued among photographers today.
To commemorate the 45th anniversary of the original model, Tamron is now launching a highly anticipated mirrorless version of this iconic lens. This latest iteration merges traditional superior imaging quality with cutting-edge technology, continuing the esteemed legacy of Tamron’s macro lenses.
Product features:
- Outstanding optical imaging performance
- Excellent flat-field performance
- 12-blade aperture generating stunning circular bokeh and starburst effects
- Compact size: only 126.5 mm in length
- New lens hood design: sliding window for effortless filter rotation
- Proprietary Tamron Lens Utility software tool for customizing lens functions and firmware updates
- Fast and precise autofocus with excellent subject tracking
- High comfort and good usability
- 67mm filter size, in line with most other Tamron lenses for mirrorless cameras
- Focus button for assigning camera functions and Tamron Lens Utility functions
- Focus limiter switch: Accelerated focusing for AF shots and quick refocusing of subjects
- Accurate torque for precise manual focusing
- Enhanced lens design promoting user-friendly operation
- Weather-resistant construction with a fluorine coating on the front element for optimal protection during outdoor shooting
High optical imaging performance
Tamron’s 90mm lenses have historically been renowned for their high resolution and beautiful bokeh. The new 90mm F2.8 Macro lens for mirrorless system cameras upholds this tradition with uncompromising performance. According to Tamron, the lens delivers unmatched imaging quality from the center to the edges, featuring soft bokeh and an almost three-dimensional effect that effectively highlights the subject.
The optical architecture includes 15 elements arranged in 12 groups, with four LD (low dispersion) elements crafted from specialized glass to effectively counteract light ray divergence and meticulously correct both spherical and chromatic aberrations. The BBAR-G2 coating (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection Generation 2) reduces ghosting and scattered light, ensuring that even the finest details are rendered sharply and accurately, even against backlighting. This exceptional optical quality empowers photographers to explore unique visual expressions across a variety of genres, including macro, portrait, tabletop photography, and more. The lens’s excellent macro capabilities also extend to APS-C format cameras, with the equivalent focal length being approximately 135 mm at the largest aperture of F/2.8.
Excellent flat-field performance.
The new 90mm F2.8 Macro from Tamron boasts optimal optical correction, providing exceptional resolution even for flat subjects such as documents, artwork, or product packaging. This quality is especially crucial for close-up photography, where the shallow depth of field often fails to compensate for potential sharpness loss at the extreme edges of flat subjects. Thanks to its optimal correction, this lens delivers edge-to-edge sharpness and consistent illumination across the entire image area, while minimizing distortion.
Aperture blades for circular bokeh and starburst effects
The 90mm F2.8 Macro employs Tamron’s first-ever 12-blade aperture, setting a new benchmark for beautiful, circular bokeh. Particularly in the macro range with a maximum reproduction ratio between 1:1 and 1:4, this unique aperture guarantees that the bokeh remains perfectly circular, even at wide-open settings. The lens also effectively minimizes vignetting at the four corners of the image. Additionally, the new design of the aperture blades creates 12 rays when stopped down, resulting in striking starburst effects. This feature is ideal for capturing dramatic scenes with selective light sources, such as candles on a birthday cake or evening cityscapes.
Compact size with a length of only 126.5 mm.
The 90mm F2.8 Macro is a medium-sized telephoto macro lens with a maximum aperture of F2.8 and measures just 126.5 mm in length. With a maximum diameter of 79.2 mm, the lens is easy to handle and compact enough for on-the-go photography. Weighing in at a mere 630 g, it offers comfort for extended use.
New lens hood design featuring a sliding window for easy filter rotation.
The 90mm F2.8 Macro includes a new lens hood with a sliding window, enhancing the ease of using filters. Filters like polarizers, ND filters, and cross-screen filters often require rotation to adjust their effects, typically necessitating the removal of the lens hood. The innovative design allows photographers to rotate the filter without removing the hood, facilitating smooth adjustments without interruption and ensuring precise control over shooting conditions.
Price and availability
The macro telephoto “Tamron 90mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD MACRO” (model F072) with Sony E and Nikon Z mounts is set to be available at specialty retailers from the end of October 2024. The recommended retail price is 698 Swiss francs (or 699 euros in Germany).
Further information
Tamron 1:2,8/90mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD Macro (product page)
Tamron Europe (manufacturer’s website)
Tamron lenses at the distributor (overview page)
Tamron lenses are distributed in Switzerland by:
Perrot Image SA
CH-2560 Nidau
Tel. 032 332 79 79
The Return of a Legend: Tamron 90mm F2.8 Di III Macro VXD
Overview of the Tamron 90mm F2.8 Di III Macro VXD
On October 24, 2024, Tamron announced the latest innovation in macro lens technology: the 90mm F/2.8 Di III Macro VXD (Model F072). This lens is designed specifically for full-frame mirrorless cameras with Sony E-mount and Nikon Z-mount options. As a continuation of Tamron’s legacy over 45 years, the new model represents an evolution in macro photography while still offering an affordable alternative to system manufacturers’ higher-priced macro lenses.
45 Years of Innovation: A Look Back
Since the introduction of the original SP 90mm F/2.5 Macro lens in 1979, Tamron has set a high standard in the macro lens market. This lens, affectionately known as “Tamukyu”, began as an academic tool but quickly found popularity among portrait and nature photographers for its exceptional bokeh and image quality. Tamron’s continuous innovation is evident through successful successors like the SP AF90mm F/2.8 Di Macro and the SP 90mm F/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 VC USD.
Key Features of the Tamron 90mm F2.8 Di III Macro VXD
- High optical imaging performance for breathtaking detail.
- Excellent flatfield performance for sharp images across the frame.
- 12-blade aperture for stunning circular bokeh and starburst effects.
- Compact design measuring only 126.5 mm in length.
- Innovative lens hood with a sliding window for easy filter adjustments.
- Proprietary software for lens customization and firmware updates via Tamron Lens Utility.
- Fast and precise autofocus with superior tracking capabilities.
- Weatherproof construction and fluorine coating for outdoor protection.
- Focus limiter switch for quick refocusing during AF shots.
Optical Performance Unleashed
High Optical Imaging Performance
The new 90mm F2.8 Macro lens preserves the legacy of its predecessors with advanced specifications aimed at delivering exceptional sharpness and bokeh. Constructed of 15 elements arranged in 12 groups, this lens integrates four low dispersion (LD) elements to drastically reduce aberrations and enhance image clarity, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Excellent Flatfield Performance
With optimal optical correction, the 90mm F2.8 Macro lens can capture even the flattest subjects, such as artwork or products, without compromising on image sharpness or illumination. This makes it ideal for artists, product photographers, and anyone needing high-resolution images of flat surfaces.
Stunning Bokeh and Starburst Effects
The specially designed 12-blade aperture system enables aesthetic effects that are pleasing to the eye. This lens excels in delivering perfectly rounded bokeh, a standout feature for macro photography where subject isolation is key. Additionally, the new design creates beautiful starburst flare effects, enhancing low-light photography experiences.
Compact and User-Friendly Design
Compact Size and Portability
Measuring just 126.5 mm in length and weighing only 630 g (Sony mount), the Tamron 90mm F2.8 Macro VXD is designed for convenience without sacrificing performance. This lightweight design makes it easy for photographers to carry for extended periods without fatigue, perfect for outdoor photography and fieldwork.
Innovative Lens Hood Design
Equipped with a new lens hood featuring a sliding window, users can conveniently rotate filters without removing the hood. This feature is particularly useful for photographers who frequently adjust polarized, ND, or other types of specialty filters, ensuring you won’t miss capturing the perfect moment.
Price and Availability
The highly anticipated Tamron 90mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD Macro will be available at specialist retailers by the end of October 2024, priced at CHF 698 (approx. €699 in Germany). This competitive pricing positions it as a valuable tool for photographers looking to enhance their macro photography kit.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | 90mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD MACRO |
| Model | F072 |
| Focal Length | 90 mm |
| Light Intensity | F/2.8 |
| Shortest Setting Distance | 0.23 m |
| Max. Magnification | 1:1 |
| Filter Size | 67 mm |
| Weight | 630 g (Sony), 640 g (Nikon) |
| Group Elements | 12-15 |
| Angle of View | 27°2‘ |
| Number of Aperture Blades | 12 |
| Smallest Aperture | F/16 |
| Largest Diameter | 79.2 mm |
| Length | 126.5 mm |
| Available Color | Black |
Practical Tips for Using the Tamron 90mm F2.8 Macro Lens
- Practice Focus Stacking: For ultimate sharpness in macro photography, consider focus stacking to maintain detail across the whole subject.
- Experiment with Lighting: Use natural light or diffused flashes to enhance textures and details in your macro shots.
- Utilize Distance: Ensure you maintain the correct working distance to avoid disturbing your subjects, especially in nature photography.
Further Information
For more details about the Tamron 90mm F2.8 Di III Macro VXD, visit the official product page at Tamron Official Site.
Distribution in Switzerland is handled by Perrot Image SA. For further assistance, you can contact them at CH-2560 Nidau, Tel. 032 332 79 79.
