I’ve said it before but I’ll say it once again: I don’t really shoot video, I’m a photographer. However, with the importance of video to modern DSLRs and mirrorless cameras and lenses to the market overall, I’ve started playing around with it now and then.
To get a better idea of how useful the Tamron 28-75mm f/2,8 Di RXD III (for Sony E-Mount) is for video shooters, I shot several basketball games over the course of a couple of weekends to test it out.
I already knew that the lens handled sports photography easily, and it’s a great focal length for shooting from under the backboard and catching the action as it comes towards the net. At the 28mm end, the lens can emphasize the subject while still capturing the surrounding action.
And I’ll let the video above speak for itself, but I found that the Tamron lens performed really well, considering that it was in the hands of a novice. It was fast enough to maintain focus on players running towards me and quickly acquire focus as the ball was passed around the court. I did often lose focus when I started zooming the lens, but the same thing happens with Sony lenses (and while shooting photos).
Since the lens is so compact and lightweight (with excellent image quality), it’s perfect for travel photography and documentary work, and I’m now comfortable extending my recommendation from photography to video work, even if you’re shooting fast moving subjects.
Want One?
It’s also worth mentioning that the lens costs only $699.00, while the Sony GM 24-70 f/2.8 costs $1,498.00 , and the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 is similarly lightweight and inexpensive if you’re looking for something wider (though a heavier and more expensive lens, Sigma’s 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN | ART offers a native alternative to the Tamron, and will begin shipping in August for $1400).
Let Me Know if You Have Questions
There’s a good chance that I won’t be able to give you many recommendations for shooting video, but I can certainly answer questions about what I’ve done. Let me know in the comments section below.
