The perfect lens? A look at the TAMRON 35-150mm F2-2.8

In this Tamron 35-150mm F2-2.8 review, I’ll share why this versatile zoom lens has quickly become my go-to travel companion for capturing landscapes, portraits, and even the unexpected. As a professional photographer who often works in extreme conditions—from the icy winds of Iceland to the humid Georgia coast—I demand gear that performs flawlessly no matter what. This lens not only meets those expectations but checks all the boxes for optical quality, durability, and flexibility in the field.

Images and text by David Akoubian

In this article, you’ll learn:

• How the Tamron 35-150mm F2-2.8 performs in real-world travel and landscape photography
• The impact of weather sealing and coatings on lens reliability in extreme environments
• Why this lens excels during Golden Hour and Blue Hour shooting conditions
• Versatility benefits from wide-angle to medium telephoto with a fast aperture
• How customizable features and handling enhance workflow for both photo and video

My Tamron 35-150mm F2-2.8 Review:

Real-World Durability in Extreme Conditions

My photography takes me from the sub-zero chill of Wyoming’s Tetons to the hot and humid marshes of the Georgia coast—and even to Iceland’s mix of rain, snow, and sleet. Throughout these journeys, the Tamron 35-150mm F2-2.8 Di III VXD (Model A058) delivered flawless performance. Thanks to robust weather sealing, I never worried about shooting in unpredictable or extreme conditions.

In Iceland, the lens was repeatedly exposed to water spray and shifting temperatures, yet it held up without a hitch. A quick wipe with a lens cloth was all it took to keep shooting, thanks in part to the lens’s fluorine coating and BBAR-G2 anti-reflective coating, which not only resist elements but also control flare remarkably well.

Sharpness and Clarity in Golden Hour Light

One of the most critical factors for me is lens performance during Golden Hour and Blue Hour—those magical times of day when light is low and dynamic range is at its most challenging. The Tamron 35-150mm F2-2.8 excels in these scenarios.

Whether I’m capturing a silhouetted tree at sunset on Ossabaw Island or the soft glow of the Tetons at sunrise, the color rendition, contrast, and clarity remain impressively consistent. The wide f/2 to f/2.8 aperture range makes it easy to shoot handheld in low light without compromising image quality or ISO.

The Versatility of 35-150mm: One Lens, Endless Opportunities

From wide-angle landscapes to intimate medium telephoto portraits, the Tamron 35-150mm F2-2.8 covers an incredibly useful focal range—especially for travel photographers who can’t afford to swap lenses in the moment.

In Iceland, I shot northern lights, wild horses, waterfalls, and even an impromptu wedding portrait session—all with this one lens. The ability to zoom without changing lenses kept my sensor clean and my creativity flowing. The constant wide aperture also let me create shallow depth of field for dramatic subject isolation in portraits and florals alike.

Tamron 35-150mm F2-2.8 Review: Customization That Matters

The physical design of the lens makes it easy to use in dynamic situations. Its customizable buttons and focus set options allowed me to switch between night photography settings and video presets without diving into menus. The VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor is quick and accurate, which is essential for capturing wildlife or fast-changing light.

Despite its powerful range, the lens remains lightweight and balanced—comfortable for handheld shooting during long days in the field or on the go.

Final Thoughts from My Tamron 35-150mm F2-2.8 Review: The Perfect Travel Lens?

With its weather-sealed build, fast and flexible aperture, wide-to-telephoto reach, and customization features, the Tamron 35-150mm F2-2.8 has earned its place in my gear bag. Whether I’m standing in front of a towering waterfall with a wedding couple, waiting for auroras to dance, or shooting delicate blossoms in soft morning light, this lens simply delivers.

It may not replace every lens in your kit—but it might just become the one you reach for first.

Want to know more about the Tamron 35-150mm F2-2.8 for full-frame mirrorless Sony E-mount and Nikon Z-mount cameras? Find an authorized Tamron dealers in your area or visit the TAMRON Store today.

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