Changing lenses has proven to be one of the most hazardous tasks. Just ask my Nikon D40 sensor filter. I spend hours trying to get rid of dust. This mainly shows up in photos of the sky. It is therefore very refreshing when a lens like Tamron’s AF 28-300mm comes along. I currently use a Nikon 18-55 and 55-200. While the Tamron is not as versatile on the wide angle (28mm), the zoom far supersedes my current lenses. That should save me from switching lenses for all but the widest angles.

Internal Focusing

The most important consideration for any Nikon D40/D40x or D60 owner is whether the lens uses internal focusing. These cameras do not have a built in motor on the camera as older DSLR’s, instead it the motor is built into the lens. Focusing is quicker and more accurate, but the downside is that older lenses cannot auto focus on theses cameras. The AF 28-300mm has internal focusing, which allows it close focus capability (down to 19.3 inches at all focal lengths).

Vibration Control System

This feature is good for shooting without a tripod, using the zoom or shooting moving objects in low light. A moving element in the lens compensates for camera shake and makes blurry photos less likely.

Compact

The lens is relatively small and light, weighing in at only 19.6 ounces and measuring 3.9 inches long and 3.1 inches in diameter.

Macro Capability

Being able to focus down to 19.3 inches (at all focal lengths) means it will also function as a good macro lens

Summary

This is just a summary of the main features of the Tamron AF 28-300mmf/3.5-6.3 VC Zoom. First reviews have been very impressive for picture quality and autofocus capability. Mounts are available for Canon EF and Nikon. With a suggested MSRP of US$599, it seems competitively priced and goes straight into my wishlist.

Contact Tamron USA (631) 858-8400, www.tamron.com.

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