Tamron 272E for Canon

Tamron model 272E Macro for Canon -for a fuller version of this see my guide on the same subject

First the CAUTION: The Tamron SP AF90mm F/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 for Canon Model 272E is a new revision of an earlier 90mm Tamron macro lens. The older lens should be considerably cheaper, so make sure you know which one you are bidding on. The features of this new model are redesigned for improved functionality for digital cameras.

DESCRIPTION The lens is a little over 10 cm long when focused to infinity. It is about 15cm (~6") long when focused to its closest distance of 0.29m (0.96 ft) for 1:1 reproduction. In the case of the Tamron 90mm, the deeply inset front lens element means that the actual distance from the front of the lens barrel, however, is only about 10cm (~4") from the subject. There is room for lighting of the subject being photographed--an advantage over shorter focal length macros that may leave only a tiny space between the front of the lens and the subject--but clearly if distance from the subject is critical, a longer macro lens such as 180mm focal length may be a better choice. The Canon version of this lens has no aperture ring markings on the lens, unlike the Nikon and Pentax versions. Aperture is displayed in the viewfinder and on top of the camera, of course.

LENS QUALITY
The lens is very sharp, and has done well in tests and reviews. It is also relatively fast for digital lenses.

BOTTOM LINE Is this lens a good buy? As an on-line search will reveal, there have been a number of reviews of this lens by major photo magazines, and my reading of them is that this is a lens that is among the top contenders for macro lens quality, regardless of manufacturer. Careful eBaying will reveal occasional real bargains for this lens, but even at its regular mail order discount price, it can be highly recommended. (see a fuller version of this at my Guide on the lens)