eggyj's reviews

Tamron 19-35mm f/3.5-4.5 AF

For value, this is the best deal on the market next to the Canon 50 f1.8 II for full frame. I bought this lens for a pack-trip into the Canadian rockies years ago due to it's weight and focal length, used on film and a 10D. Very pleased with the results - one photo taken just won a 2nd place in a pro judged photo contest - color landscape.
1. Flare: Will show red/magenta flare spots but handles veiling flair well - use the hood and your hat to shield the front element. Better than Canon 28-105mm f3.5-4.5 II.
2. Sharpness - good above f6.3, usable above f5.6 but corners start to soften.
3. Distortion: at 19/20mm is noticable in the corners but not really bad - keeping your camera level and square to the subject is more important.
4. Corner darkening/vignetting: Noticeable on full frame below f5.6, not a problem on APS sensors.
5. Construction: Better than kit lenses and Canon/Nikon low end. Typical Tamron high quality plastic, metal mount, I've had mine four years with no problems.
6. Bokeh/OOF: Haven't noticed any issues but mostly use this for landscapes.
7. Extras: Hood, lens cap, and six year warranty are unbeatable: Canon should be ashamed at what they offer (or don't offer) with their lenses: Consider that 4 cheap plastic lens hoods from Canon buys this lens.
8. Focus speed is good in good light, max aperture of f3.5 - 4.5 helps with viewfinder brightness and focus accuracy compared to typical f4.5-5.6 kit lenses.

Recommendation: If you only shot APS sensors, the Nikon 18-55mm or Canon 18-55 IS kit lenses MAYBE a better deal - MAYBE. If you still shoot full frame - film or digital - nothing touches this lens for value. This, with a 50mm f1.8 standard lens make a very versatile lightweight travel/packing kit.

Highly recommended as a budget option for full frame (film especially).