Review: Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 for Sports Video

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.

Matthew Gore | Light And Matter

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 $799.00, while the Sony GM 24-70 f/2.8 costs $1,598.00 , 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.


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James

Curious to know how the Tamron 28-75 performs for sports photography at the 50-75mm range. The 28mm sample above looks great but you mention losing focus when zooming, wasn’t sure if that was in reference to performance at longer focals or literally when turning the zoom ring (if that makes sense).

Lawrence

I’m interested in your thoughts about focus breathing at the 100 feet distance on the 70-200mm f2.8 Tamron lenses. From your video and article, it appears the the Tamrons end up being slightly shorter at distances of 26 feet, but wondering if it is much shorter since you notice negligible difference at infinity. I’m rying to foresee if the “soon to be released” Tamron 70-180mm f2.8 Sony FE mount lens might be suitable for me. I am shooting competitive diving and it’s often indoors in low light situations and at distances of up to 100’ away. It’s also fast action, so really the most difficult situations. I don’t want to spend on a GM lens as it is only a hobby. Thoughts?

Lawrence

Thanks for the detailed reply! Unfortunately it’s for diving and flash or lighting is not permitted. I had considered the 135mm F1.8 as well but leaning back towards a more economical option. We’ll have to wait and see if the new Tamron is a good option!