The one must-have lens I rely on for any event: Tamron’s 35-150mm
When I used to write for Photofocus, I would have the opportunity to test out a lot of camera gear. And thus, I was able to use several different camera lenses and see what worked best for me. As an event photographer, there are some must-have lenses that I rely on. And while I used to rely on a “trinity” of three lenses, about a year ago I decided to change it up a bit.
A little over a year since I first reviewed it, the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 now has a permanent spot in my camera bag. This is a lens I use for pretty much everything, but it especially does a great job for events.
Here’s some of my favorite traits about the lens, and why I keep coming back to it again and again:
It lets me stay light
While the 35-150mm is no lightweight, having such a versatile lens lets me carry two lenses for events, instead of the typical three. This is great when you’re working an all-day event, as it lightens your bag and lets you stay on-the-move longer.
At 35mm, I’m able to capture a wide-angle shot that showcases the room. And at 150mm, I can capture the stage with ease. Coupled with my Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 GM lens, I effectively have a kit that lets me capture wide to telephoto, with just two lenses on hand.
It’s great in low light
While I’m not typically a variable aperture fan, having an aperture range of f/2-2.8 means I can capture scenes in low light without a problem. I’ve used the lens in some very tricky lighting situations, and the results are always spectacular. It could be pitch black out, but this lens is able to continue to perform greatly.
Weather is no problem
In Michigan, we get a lot of different types of weather. It can be 65 degrees one day, and can be 30 degrees and snowing the next. So I need camera gear that will withstand the elements.
The Tamron 35-150mm is my go-to lens for capturing World of Winter events for Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. I’ve been caught in snowstorms with this, and the lens continues to perform at its best.
It’ll make your subjects pop
When I’m photographing portraits, I love that out of focus background look. While it might not match a prime f/1.4 lens, the 35-150mm really hits home for me and provides some beautiful background separation. This helps to make your portrait pop, and really adds to the artistic look.
It’s fast
For fast-moving photoshoots, I really need a lens that can lock on to subjects and keep them in focus. The Tamron 35-150mm does a great job at this, and it’s one of the reasons why I ultimately went with this lens.
Whether it be bike races, running events or performances, the 35-150mm can stand up to anything that’s moving in front of it.
It’s hard to find a lens that will beat the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8. As a Sony photographer, I have a plethora of lenses at my disposal to choose from. And this lens has really hit the mark, and it’s one I keep coming back to.
