TAMRON 11-20MM F/2.8 DI III-A - Review

If you're a Sony E APS-C mirrorless camera owner, then you probably know just how important a good lens is to your photography kit. That's why the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD lens might be something you want to consider. This compact and lightweight lens boasts a lot of features that can help you get the photos you want – even in challenging conditions.

First, let's talk about the basics. This lens has an f/2.8 aperture, which means it can let in a lot of light. That's great for low-light conditions or when you want to create a shallow depth of field effect. This lens is also an ultra-wide-angle zoom, which is ideal for capturing landscapes, interior shots, and other wide-angle scenes.

But what really sets this lens apart is its close focusing capability. At 11mm, you can get as close as 5.9 inches to your subject – that's almost macro-level close! And even at 20mm, you can get as close as 9.4 inches. This can be really helpful if you want to capture small details or create a unique perspective on your subject.

Another benefit of this lens is its compact and lightweight design. At just 3.4" long and 11.8 oz., it won't add too much bulk or weight to your camera kit. That can be a big plus if you're traveling or shooting for an extended period of time. And despite its small size, this lens feels sturdy and well-built. It has a moisture-resistant construction and a fluorine coating on the front element to repel water, oil, and fingerprints.

So, how does the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD perform in the field? According to customer reviews, pretty darn well. With over 50 reviews and an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, it's clear that many photographers are happy with this lens. Some of the recurring themes in the reviews include:

- Excellent image quality, especially at wider apertures

- Fast and accurate autofocus

- Versatile focal length range

- Good value for the price

Of course, there are a few downsides to this lens that are worth mentioning. One is the lack of built-in image stabilization. For Sony E APS-C mirrorless cameras that have in-body stabilization, this won't be an issue. But if your camera doesn't have IBIS, you may notice more camera shake at slower shutter speeds. Additionally, some reviewers noted that the lens can be a bit soft around the edges at certain focal lengths and apertures.

Overall, though, the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD seems like a solid choice for Sony E APS-C mirrorless camera users who want a versatile, high-quality ultra-wide-angle lens. Its close focusing capability and lightweight design are particularly appealing, and its image quality and autofocus performance are highly rated. Just be aware of the lack of IS and the potential for softer edges in some situations.

Some additional tips for using this lens:

- Try experimenting with different focal lengths and apertures to find the sweet spot for edge-to-edge sharpness.

- Use the close focusing capability to your advantage – try getting up close to your subject to capture unique details or textures.

- Consider using a tripod or higher ISO settings to mitigate any camera shake if you don't have IBIS.

If you're in the market for an ultra-wide-angle lens for your Sony E APS-C mirrorless camera, the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD is definitely one to check out. With its combination of close focusing ability, fast aperture, and compact design, it could be just the lens you need to take your photography to the next level.

TAMRON 11-20MM F/2.8 DI III-A

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