Tamron has announced 2 new fast prime lenses: a 35mm f/1.8 and a 45mm f/1.8. both lenses will feature Tamron’s VC “Vibration Compensation” image stabilization technology and weather resistant builds. The new 35mm will compete directly with the Canon 35mm f/2 IS that was released not to long ago, with the Tamron sporting the slightly faster max aperture and weather resistant construction over the Canon. The 45mm is a rather odd choice to me – not sure why they didn’t make it a traditional 50mm instead. The Sigma Art Series lenses (24mm 35mm and 50mm) have been very successful so it will be interesting to see if the Tamron lenses will be as popular.
Press Release
September 2, 2015, Commack, New York – Tamron, a leading manufacturer of optics for diverse applications, announces the launch of a new series of SP lenses that are optimized to make the most of the superior imaging performance delivered by the latest advancements in digital photography. Sporting a totally revamped external appearance, the new lenses provide the ultimate in functionality and operation. The first two lenses in the series are compatible with full-frame DSLR cameras and offer fast apertures and versatile, fixed focal lengths. The pair consists of the SP 35mm F/1.8 Di VC USD (Model F012) and SP 45mm F/1.8 Di VC USD (Model F013), and both can be used with APS-C format cameras as well. The lenses will be on sale in the U.S. starting September 29, 2015 in Canon and Nikon mounts (the Sony(1) mount to be launched at a later date). The approximate price of each will be $599.
(1) The Sony mount model does not include VC (Vibration Compensation), since the bodies of Sony DSLR cameras include built-in image stabilization functionality.
Background of the SP Series Renovation
In 1979, Tamron unveiled the first SP Series lens, the 90mm F/2.5 Macro, a legendary product that was designed to achieve the highest level of performance possible. Since then, a significant number of lenses designated SP have been introduced. During the ensuing 35 years, cameras and imaging devices have made dramatic advancements and diversification centered mostly around innovations in image sensor technology and sophisticated signal processors.
Constantly innovating, Tamron developed new lenses to stay abreast of the exciting technological evolution. Lenses launched after 2012, including SP 24-70mm F/2.8 VC USD, SP 70-200mm F/2.8 VC USD, SP 90mm F/2.8 MACRO 1:1 VC USD, SP 15-30mm F/2.8 VC USD and SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 VC USD, received rave reviews for their high performance and richly refined functionality to sustain sophisticated requirements of the latest DSLRs with high pixel counts.
To leap forward, Tamron has gone back to the root of optics to redefine all of the core attributes of lenses to be selected as photographers’ “ultimate partners.” The new series of SP lenses are developed seeking the highest level of performance, functionality and maneuverability, and a prestigious external appearance that reconfirms the high quality of the properties that are inside.
Features of fast-aperture fixed focal lenses: 35mm and 45mm, the first of new SP Series
To develop these two standard fixed focal lenses, goals were established to provide exquisite characteristics certain to set them distinctively apart from ordinary, conventional models. This required a new approach.
All of the key performance criteria were redefined to achieve the ultimate in optical performance. VC (Vibration Compensation) was incorporated as an integral part of the opto-electronics design to expand shooting freedom. Priority was set to allow dramatically closer focusing capability to remove what would otherwise be a barrier to the subject. Yet with all this innovation, the overall mechanical package had to be kept within practical size limits with an elegantly sophisticated external design as a human interface.
Having optimized every prerequisite, remarkably versatile lenses have been developed that boast amazing performance from F/1.8 wide open aperture. These lenses can be enjoyed by users of APS-C cameras as well as full-frame.
1. F/1.8 fast-aperture, fixed focal lenses aimed at ultimate performance
Optimal use of the latest glass materials, coupled with Tamron’s world renowned optical design technology, thoroughly compensated for aberrations of all types to achieve higher resolving power, while fine textures of materials and details are reproduced with subtle tonal gradations. The F/1.8 aperture delivers more light to the viewfinder—making it brighter for easier focusing – and more light to the sensor, allowing use even in very dim lighting conditions. In addition, the bokeh (background blur) effect obtained using the F/1.8 fast aperture delivers impressively smooth and soft transition from the main subject to the background.
2. Dynamic close-focusing capability, unprecedented among standard lenses
Both models deliver astonishingly short MOD (Minimum Object Distance) not available from other 35mm or 45mm standard lenses. Photographers can get closer to the subject with ease, unleashing new photo opportunities with an expanded scope of freedom. Superb image capture is ensured throughout the entire range from the closest to normal shooting distances, thanks to Tamron’s proprietary Floating System built into both lenses.
3. VC (Vibration Compensation) System, a feature crucial for high-pixel-density cameras
Beneficial under all lighting conditions and especially useful in low light levels, the VC function provides noticeable advantages for handheld shooting by minimizing the adverse effects of camera shake. Cameras with high pixel densities, in particular, are sensitive to minute vibrations which cause unsharpness and degradation of image quality. VC works to ensure the maximum imaging performance even in dim lighting to allow photographers to enjoy the fast F/1.8 maximum aperture to the fullest extent.
4. User-friendly product design with close attention to all details
Opening a new chapter in the SP legend, product design, opto-mechanical construction and engineering processes are totally integrated. Every single detail and operating function has been thoroughly reexamined, explored and matured to a form that has a friendly, human touch.
35mm & 45mm features
(1) Product design with maximum emphasis on the human interface in order to achieve the ultimate in functional beauty
While the lens is constructed with the absolutely most modern technologies inside, the exterior is articulated to offer the best possible comfort and confidence under a product design philosophy of “Human Touch.” Organically composed lines and patterns on the barrel produce subtle changes in its appearance by reflecting ambient light on the surface. Metal-based barrel materials provide a pleasant feeling of comfort, high quality and durability, fitting firmly in the hands of the photographer. Design of the front face of the lens is also taken into consideration so that it is not intimidating.
(2) Brand ring and SP emblem
A brand ring that’s tinted “Luminous Gold” adorns the lens just above the lens mount. On one side of the lens barrel there is an SP emblem in the same luxurious color.
(3) Design of distance and aperture scales
The window over the distance scale has been enlarged by 20% to maximize visibility and legibility. Font style of the characters and numbers has been newly developed to enhance the legibility as a critical element of the overall product design.
(4) Switches with optimized geometric shape and tactile feedback
The geometric shape and sliding torque of the AF/MF change-over and VC On/Off switches have been configured and engineered to deliver the utmost comfort with secured operational feedback.
(5) Lens hood and caps
To complete the lens product design, accessories such as the lens hood and caps for front and rear have been totally redesigned as well. Attaching and removing the lens hood has been fine-tuned by optimizing the connection interface to render both secure seating and durability.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
SP 35mm F/1.8 Di VC USD (Model F012)
35mm Standard Wide-Angle Lens with VC and World’s First 7.9”
Minimum Object Distance for Full-Frame DSLR Cameras
Natural perspective and field-of-view for instinctive image capture.
Provides the ideal balance of performance and functionality to deliver unexpected opportunities for creative imaging.
A fast, primary standard lens for those who prefer wide-angle shooting.
Provides an equivalent focal length of 54mm on APS-C cameras.
1. Even when used wide open at F/1.8 aperture, provides outstanding image quality with maximum aberration compensation, thanks to optimal use of sophisticated glass materials and highly advanced optical design
SP 35mm F/1.8 Di VC USD (Model F012) is a 10-element, 9-group construction, utilizing two molded glass aspherical elements, one LD (Low Dispersion) and one XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) element.
Two of the aspherical elements effectively correct the field curvature to ensure planarity of the image plane, while efficiently compensating for spherical and comatic aberrations to achieve superb uniformity across the field with high-fidelity point spread reproducibility. Outstanding resolution is rendered from corner to corner and the sagittal comatic flare (a type of aberration that a point image at corners induces a comet tail-like blur), which tends to become prominently noticeable in night scenes, is corrected.
The LD and the higher grade XLD glass elements optimally compensate for chromatic aberrations, which tend to become particularly prominent in fast-aperture lenses in general, and deliver crystal clear images without any residual color fringe.
2. 35mm focal length with fast F/1.8 maximum aperture and integral VC (Vibration Compensation) for full-frame DSLR cameras
The desirable maximum aperture of F/1.8 was chosen as part of the very challenging design goals which included achieving superb optical performance, minimizing the closest shooting distance and integrating VC functionality while packaging those key attributes in a reasonably-sized barrel construction for better practical handling. Repeated performance simulations were conducted throughout the entire design phase to assure achieving the essential, fundamental property of a fast-aperture lens in full-frame format, namely the harmony between excellent resolving power and beautifully-tuned background blur (bokeh).
The VC feature has become virtually indispensable in the era of high-pixel-density cameras. Freedom in handheld shooting at dusk or in a dimly lit room is dramatically expanded by cancelling the camera shake that often occurs under such low light conditions due to slower shutter speeds. Minute vibrations that plague cameras with high pixel count can be well muted to make the most of the performance of the camera and lens outfit.
3. MOD (Minimum Object Distance) of 7.9”, the best-in-class close-focusing capability(2)
MOD measures just 7.9”, yielding a magnification ratio of 1:2.5, the shortest close focusing capability among fast-aperture fixed focal lenses in full-frame format. Since the lens allows for shooting at distances extremely close to the subject (similar to a macro), close-up pictures with spectacular background blur effect (bokeh) can be obtained with the aperture wide open, thereby expanding the scope of photo opportunities. Tamron’s proprietary Floating System, which places a group of elements at the optimal location as the focusing group travels relative to shooting distances, ensures the best imaging performance at any range. From the closest to a normal shooting distance range, image quality is excellent.
4. Optimal relative illumination means no dark corners
Some fast-aperture lenses “vignette” or have darkened corners due to uneven light distribution. However, even at the full open aperture, the overall illumination level across the entire field is well balanced and optimized. Because there is a sufficient amount of corner illumination, photographers can enjoy making full use of the wide open aperture.
5. eBAND Coating deployed to thoroughly suppress ghosting and flare
eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) and BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) coatings, both providing outstanding anti-reflection effect, are applied to critical element surfaces for maximum light transmission. Internal reflections from element surfaces which cause ghosting and flare are reduced to an absolute minimum. Flawless, crystal clear images can be obtained. eBAND Coating, a hybrid nano-structured layer with extremely low refractive index coupled with multi-layered anti-reflection coating technology, efficiently minimizes reflection of extremely angulated incident light—something that cannot be achieved by conventional anti-reflection coatings alone.
6. High-speed AF with USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive)
Fast, quiet AF is achieved by employing a USD ring-type ultrasonic motor which enables remarkably precise focusing drive with high torque and responsiveness. Because the rotational torque of the USD is generated by waves of ultrasonic vibrations, inherent operating noise is extremely low and practically imperceptible. In addition, Full-time Manual Focus override is available at any point during the autofocus operation for deliberately shifting focus without switching the AF-MF mode back and forth.
7. Fluorine coating on the front element repels water and fingerprints
Fluorine coating technology, developed for use in industrial optics applications, has been adapted to photographic lenses. The water and oil repellant coating applied to the front element surface allows instant removal of dirt or smudges with ease. The coating also provides a reasonable level of durability, and will sustain its effectiveness for years.
8. Moisture-resistant construction for shooting outdoors under adverse weather conditions
Seals are located at the lens mount area and other critical locations to prevent infiltration of moisture and/or rain drops and provide moisture-resistant construction. This feature provides an additional layer of protection when shooting outdoors under adverse weather conditions.
9. Circular aperture for enhanced bokeh
The 9-blade diaphragm retains a nearly circular opening even when stopped down by two stops. Marvelously tuned blur in the subject background can be obtained without generating undesirable shapes of aperture patterns.
10. Compatibility with Adobe and Silkypix software
Supplied with SILKYPIX Developer Studio 4.0, advanced editing software that features correction menus for various aberrations (lateral color, distortion, relative illumination) based on the optical design data of this specific lens. Shooting RAW image files enables creation of more stringent and high-fidelity image quality.
(2)Rated top among current 35mm fixed focal length interchangeable AF lenses for full-frame DSLR cameras excluding macro lenses (as of July 2015; Tamron).
SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL: F012
FOCAL LENGTH: 35mm
MAXIMUM APERTURE: F/1.8
ANGLE OF VIEW (DIAGONAL): 63°26′ (for full-frame format) / 43°29′ (for APS-C format)
OPTICAL CONSTRUCTION: 10 elements in 9 groups
MINIMUM OBJECT DISTANCE: 7.9 in
MAXIMUM MAGNIFICATION RATIO: 1:2.5
FILTER SIZE: Ø 67mm
MAXIMUM DIAMETER: Ø 80.4mm
LENGTH(3): for Canon 3.2 in / for Nikon 3.1 in
WEIGHT: for Canon 16.9 oz / for Nikon 15.9 oz
APERTURE BLADES: 9 (circular diaphragm(4))
MINIMUM APERTURE: F/16
STANDARD ACCESSORIES: Flower-shaped lens hood, Lens caps
COMPATIBLE MOUNTS: Canon, Nikon, Sony(5)
Specifications, appearance, functionality, etc. are subject to change without prior notice.
(3) Length is the distance from the front tip of the lens to the lens mount face.
(4) The circular diaphragm stays almost perfectly circular up to two stops down from maximum aperture.
(5) The Sony mount model does not include VC, since the bodies of Sony DSLR cameras include built-in image stabilization functionality.
SP 45mm F/1.8 Di VC USD (Model F013)
First High-Speed 45mm Fixed Focal Standard Lens in Full-Frame Format with VC, Offers Unique Perspective with Significantly Shorter Minimum Focusing Distance
A New Standard among all standard lenses.
Slight wide-angle delivers a new photographic perspective.
Responsive to your intuitive and inspirational motives.
Provides an equivalent focal length of 70mm on APS-C cameras.
1. Even when used wide open at F/1.8 aperture, provides outstanding image quality with maximum aberration compensation, thanks to optimal use of sophisticated glass materials and highly advanced optical design
SP 45mm F/1.8 Di VC USD (Model F013) is a 10-element, 8-group construction, utilizing two molded glass aspherical elements and one LD (Low Dispersion) element.
Two of the aspherical elements effectively correct the field curvature to ensure planarity of the image plane, while efficiently compensating for spherical and comatic aberrations to achieve superb uniformity across the field with high-fidelity point spread reproducibility. Outstanding resolution is rendered from corner to corner and the sagittal comatic flare (a type of aberration that a point image at corners induces a comet tail-like blur), which tends to become prominently noticeable in night scenes, is thoroughly corrected.
The LD glass element optimally compensates for chromatic aberrations, which tend to become particularly prominent in fast-aperture lenses in general, and delivers crystal clear images without any residual color fringe.
2. World’s first(6) full-frame 45mm focal length with fast F/1.8 maximum aperture and integral VC (Vibration Compensation)
The aperture is optimized to F/1.8 to create the most practical lens offering superior imaging performance, a shorter minimum focus distance and image stabilization mechanism. Countless simulations during the design phase ensured the high resolution expected of a full-frame, high-speed lens coupled with spectacular background blur.
It is also the world’s first full-frame, fixed focal length standard lens to be equipped with VC. Freedom in handheld shooting has been dramatically improved by reducing camera shake that tends to occur when using shooting in low light such as at dusk and in dark rooms. Also, the full potential of the high performance of the lens is realized by reducing minute vibrations that lower image quality conspicuous in high resolution cameras.
3. MOD (Minimum Object Distance) of 11.4”, the best-in-class close focusing capability(7)
MOD measures 11.4”, yielding a magnification ratio of 1:3.4, the best-in-the-class close focusing capability among fast-aperture fixed focal lenses in full-frame format. The freedom of shooting at a closer distance to the subject expands photographic possibilities. Tamron’s proprietary Floating System, which places a group of elements at the optimal location as the focusing group travels relative to shooting distances, ensures the best imaging performance at any range. From the closest to a normal shooting distance range, excellent image quality is obtained.
4. Optimal relative illumination means no dark corners
Some fast-aperture lenses “vignette” or have darkened corners due to uneven light distribution.
However, even at the full open aperture, the overall illumination level across the entire field is well balanced and optimized. Because there is a sufficient amount of corner illumination, photographers can enjoy making full use of the wide open aperture.
5. eBAND Coating deployed to thoroughly suppress ghosting and flare
eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) and BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) coatings, both providing outstanding anti-reflection effect, are applied to critical element surfaces for maximum light transmission. Internal reflections from element surfaces which cause ghosting and flare are reduced to an absolute minimum. Flawless, crystal clear images can be obtained. eBAND Coating, a hybrid nano-structured layer with extremely low refractive index coupled with multi-layered anti-reflection coating technology, efficiently minimizes reflection of extremely angulated incident light—something that cannot be achieved by conventional anti-reflection coatings alone.
6. High-speed AF with USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive)
Fast, quiet AF is achieved by employing a USD ring-type ultrasonic motor which enables remarkably precise focusing drive with high torque and responsiveness. Because the rotational torque of the USD is generated by waves of ultrasonic vibrations, inherent operating noise is extremely low and practically imperceptible. In addition, Full-time Manual Focus override is available at any point during the autofocus operation for deliberately shifting focus without switching the AF-MF mode back and forth.
7. Fluorine coating on the front element repels water and fingerprints
Fluorine coating technology, developed for use in industrial optics applications, has been adapted to photographic lenses. The water and oil repellant coating applied to the front element surface allows instant removal of dirt or smudges with ease. The coating also provides a reasonable level of durability, and will sustain its effectiveness for years.
8. Moisture-resistant construction for shooting outdoors under adverse weather conditions
Seals are located at the lens mount area and other critical locations to prevent infiltration of moisture and/or rain drops and provide moisture-resistant construction. This feature provides an additional layer of protection when shooting outdoors under adverse weather conditions.
9. Circular aperture for enhanced bokeh
The 9-blade diaphragm retains a nearly circular opening even when stopped down by two stops. Marvelously tuned blur in the subject background can be obtained without generating undesirable shapes of aperture patterns.
10. Compatibility with Adobe and Silkypix software
Supplied with SILKYPIX Developer Studio 4.0, advanced editing software that features correction menus for various aberrations (lateral color, distortion, relative illumination) based on the optical design data of this specific lens. Shooting RAW image files enables creation of more stringent and high-fidelity image quality.
(6) As of July 2015; Tamron.
(7) Rated top among current 45mm and 50mm fixed focal length interchangeable AF lenses for full-frame DSLR cameras excluding macro lenses (as of July 2015; Tamron).
SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL: F013
FOCAL LENGTH: 45mm
MAXIMUM APERTURE: F/1.8
ANGLE OF VIEW (DIAGONAL): 51°21′ (for full-frame format) / 34°28′ (for APS-C format)
OPTICAL CONSTRUCTION: 10 elements in 8 groups
MINIMUM OBJECT DISTANCE: 11.4 in
MAXIMUM MAGNIFICATION RATIO: 1:3.4
FILTER SIZE: Ø 67mm
MAXIMUM DIAMETER: Ø 80.4mm
LENGTH(8): for Canon 3.6 in / for Nikon 3.5 in
WEIGHT: for Canon 19 oz / for Nikon 18.3 oz
APERTURE BLADES: 9 (circular diaphragm(9))
MINIMUM APERTURE: F/16
STANDARD ACCESSORIES: Flower-shaped lens hood, Lens caps
COMPATIBLE MOUNTS: Canon, Nikon, Sony(10)
Specifications, appearance, functionality, etc. are subject to change without prior notice.
(8) Length is the distance from the front tip of the lens to the lens mount face.
(9) The circular diaphragm stays almost perfectly circular up to two stops down from maximum aperture.
(10) The Sony mount model does not include VC, since the bodies of Sony DSLR cameras include built-in image stabilization functionality.
About Tamron CO., Ltd.
“New Eyes for Industry” is Tamron’s philosophy. This creed is consistent with the company’s position as a manufacturer of a wide range of original optical products, from interchangeable lenses for SLR cameras to various optical devices for both the general consumer and OEM. Tamron makes optical products that contribute to a range of different industries and will continue to devote its rich creativity and leading-edge technical prowess to various industrial fields. Furthermore, Tamron is fully aware of its responsibility to the environment and aspires to help preserve the natural environment in all of its business activities.
Optical Product Line-up:
Interchangeable lenses for SLR cameras, digital camera lenses, video camera lenses, lenses for automotive applications, IP and CCTV lenses, lenses for long wavelength infrared cameras, ultra-precision optical components and more.