Summary
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.
Features
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.
