Hello everyone! I posted this on my profile on Facebook and to the 365Facebook Project group but I realized that some of you here may appreciate the information! I just got a new lens and the deal on it is crazy good! I just got the Tamron AF 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6 Di LD Macro Zoom Lens with Built In Motor from www.amazon.com for $158.03 PLUS, there is a $50 mail-in rebate bringing my total cost down to $108 + stamps! In addition to having a 6 year warranty, this lens is a full $400 cheaper than the Nikon branded version of this lens. Yes, I understand that Nikon should be better but I can't justify the extra $400 for the label right now on a relatively tight budget.
I have included links below to the lens for Nikon and Canon AND the mail-in rebate form. Five of my friends have purchased it so far that I am aware of and they are quite happy! The lens is capable of macro at the 180-300 range which is how I captured my recent hummingbird shot. Please note that this shot is not 100% sharp but it was also shot hand held at the full 300mm extension.
NOTE: Buying from Amazon will not have sales tax depending on your state and includes Super Saver Shipping. DO NOT waste your money on upgraded shipping unless you are ordering super close to the holidays. The turn around I have been seeing is really really fast! I ordered mine Friday night and had it Tuesday morning. A friend ordered Tuesday and had it arrive Thursday in California if that helps give you an idea.
@burningjello So far, so good! I have not owned a 300 before so I am finding that it takes a little getting used to. Shooting handheld is a little trickier at the full 300mm but I shot this hummingbird the afternoon I received my lens and I am pretty happy with it! I am sure it would have been much sharper on a tripod with a remote but for handheld, I am pretty happy!
I know there are folks out there that feel that if the lens does not say Nikon or Canon on it, it cannot be as good, but I am not one of those people. I shoot with a Tamron 60mm f/2.0 1:1 macro lens a lot and adore it! I have used it for portraits as well instead of buying a 50mm and it has done a fantastic job. Plus, I got it for more than $400 less than the Nikon version!
I read lots of reviews before buying and checked in with a couple of friends that already own it. The only consistent recommendation I have seen has been to use a tripod at 300mm and turn off VR when mounted. Other than that, the only complaint I have heard is that I got it cheaper than they did. ;)
I read your comment above about some people's thinking that if it doesn't say Nikon or Canon on it, it is a lesser quality lens and it reminded me of this article that my dad sent me. My dad has been a photographer for as many years as I can remember, shoots with a high-end Sony, and loves his Tamron lenses. I thought I'd share the article's link with you so those who might be thinking about buying this lens can have one more reason to get it. http://www.natureandphotography.com/?p=609
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I know there are folks out there that feel that if the lens does not say Nikon or Canon on it, it cannot be as good, but I am not one of those people. I shoot with a Tamron 60mm f/2.0 1:1 macro lens a lot and adore it! I have used it for portraits as well instead of buying a 50mm and it has done a fantastic job. Plus, I got it for more than $400 less than the Nikon version!
I read lots of reviews before buying and checked in with a couple of friends that already own it. The only consistent recommendation I have seen has been to use a tripod at 300mm and turn off VR when mounted. Other than that, the only complaint I have heard is that I got it cheaper than they did. ;)
http://www.natureandphotography.com/?p=609