Tamron SP 85mm f/1.8 DI VC USD £750/ $750

This feature-rich lens is a smart choice for portraiture

this Tamron SP (Super Performance) lens includes LD and XLD (extra Low Dispersion) elements, nano-structure EBAND (Extended Bandwidth and Angular-dependency) and BBAR (Broad-band Antireflection) anti-reflective coatings to reduce ghosting and flare, plus a fluorine coating on the front element to repel muck and moisture. Build quality is excellent, with a precision-engineered feel, and extensive weather-seals.

Like the Tamron 45mm, this optic is compatible with Tamron’s TAP-IN console. This enables connection of the lens to a computer via a USB link, for updating firmware and customizing settings, like fine-tuning autofocus.

Physically smaller and lighter in weight than the competing Sigma 85mm f/1.4, the Tamron is nevertheless larger and weightier than the Canon 85mm that shares its f/1.8 aperture rating. At 700g, it’s still entirely manageable and feels well-balanced on full-frame bodies, while the VC (Vibration Compensation) system is a bonus for handheld shooting in low lighting levels. As with the Sigma lenses, but none of the Canon lenses on test, the Tamron lenses are supplied complete with hoods. Internal focusing, powered by ring-type ultrasonic systems, results in the front elements remaining fixed throughout the focusing range.

Performance

At f/1.8, the Tamron is sharper than the Canon 85mm lens, and the level of sharpness is consistent across the whole frame. It’s not quite as sharp as the Sigma 85mm Art lens, but it’s close, and more than sharp enough for portraiture. Bokeh is wonderfully smooth, even more so than with the Tamron 45mm lens, helped by the longer focal length.