Quote: robcap13
4 Pentax 16-45 vs Tamron 17-50/2.8
I am looking for a good al around lens. Good portriat, landscape, lowlight and Macro if i am not getting to greedy. I have heard great things about both these lenses but nothing to say anything against one or the other. Any feedback from anyone that shoots either or both?
Both of these lenses are excellent lenses and they are graciously priced as well. For landscape, either one will make you happy. Neither the Tammy, nor the Pentax do Macro, but the Tammy's MFD is .27m & the Penny is .28m.
For Portrait, the extra reach of the Tamron is a plus, but not real significant. For lowlight though, the larger (f 2.8) aperture of the Tammy is a big plus and one of the main reasons why the lens is more money than the Penny.
I think, if lowlight is your thing in this purchase, and these are the two lenses from which you will select, the Tamron is the better choice. I bought the Tamron for my K20d back in April of 2008 and am very happy. Here is a shot with the Tammy at close, but not closest focus. Best of luck.
ISO 100---f 4.5--/180th--50mm