Tamron 70-200 G2 | Focus Breathing?

[@floex831]

+Dustin Abbott Mr. Abbott, I never cared about focus breathing...and I still don't. Did I notice it? Yes but I worked around that instead of bitching about it as most have. I think that at $1300 US, A bit of focus breathing, isn't keeping me away. The Nikon f/2.8E lens is NOT $1500 sharper, or $1500 at AF. I have used the G1 from Tamron and I am going to sell it at a loss to get the G2. That's how much I believe in the Tamron G2. Your video assents with what Matt Granger found, thank you so much for your efforts!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

My pleasure.

[@floex831]

Actually I call bitching, because of people not doing their research enough to know that almost ALL Lenses have focus breathing. Some more than others, but your comment is proof of why I know people are more brand loyalist than objective fact seekers. The Nikkor 70-200 VR II had a TON of focus breathing and it cost more than the Tamron. Yet I found more people attacking the G1, and now G2 Tamron more than it. This is where photographic skills come into play rather than your depending on your equipment to do the work for you. You can always purchase a prime 200mm lens to get the true 200mm experience and even then it will focus breath. It called science, the physical moment of the focusing elements WILL cause this, and depending on the lens design some lenses will do it more than others. I'm just saying since you're making ad hominen attacks using your close-minded assumptions as to why I can look past the lens short coming instead of trying to understand. I get it it, some pros need (or want) max compression, this is why 200mm primes are so popular with portrait photographers and why a lot of them swear by them. So, I repeat, if you need max compression, get one of those. I don't use mine that often, I'll sell it to you, Nikon mount.

[@05xrunner]

I think its mainly the only people crying about it the most are the ones who are keyboard warriors who only care about whats on paper and it gives them something to get all mad about and post about to try and sound like they are super pro status. If they want to feel that way they should stick with watching Tony northup

[@floriankessler4516]

@ shaolin 95: There are two "workarounds": I call them EF 200mm f2.8 L and EF 70-200 f4L. Add this to the price of the Tamron G" and you will benefit from an extra backupsolution, should one lens fail. Otherwise I am completley on your side!

[@oasean]

shaolin95, if you think that focus breathing is uncommon among lenses, then you need to learn more about lenses. It's the rule, not the exception.

[@ashrafalhujaili5868]

thank you very much, I do have the first G and i don't have any issue with focus breatheing I knew the lens has it before i even bought the lens , but I don't see any significant issues with that the issue that i ran with the 1st G is the minimum focus distant , as i usually go away almost 5 feet to get focused and this is really frustrating sometimes I'm not ready for upgrade just yet but I'm considering

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The good news for you is that this is dramatically improved on the newer lens.

[@reng6688]

I think it is a good thing that the issue of focus breathing has now been brought into light. Consumers are now better informed. Also, this would give lens manufacturers something to improve on. I can already foresee that some brands would advertise their zoom lenses are focus breathing free and thus lead other competitors to stride for a higher standard.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I noted that the new Tamron 70-210 f/4 VC is actually a very good performer in this area, so Tamron certainly worked on that.

[@MrNep2une]

Exactly, being able to close focus is a big asset when one is shooting weddings. Focus breathing properties (its not even an issue for stills )is quickly forgotten in a real wedding and journo situations. This means the 70-200 lens can be used a lot more! Somehow the shots from 70-200 always looks better than shots from 24-70. Personally I sold my Nikon VR2 and kept a tamron G1 as they performed identically (and save about $1000 )...and I am very happy with my current one. When the time to upgrade comes, this looks very attractive as I value shorter wortking distances over focus breathing.

[@metals2546]

Very good review. Unfortunately the focus breathing issue is a concern for some of us that do portrait work. The annoyance is when others try to tell me that it is not an issue or it is being made into an a far bigger issue that it is. Let me try to clarify for those of you trying to diminish the issue of focus breathing, if focus breathing is an issue for me and the style in which I prefer to shoot, then it is an issue for me, your opinion on the matter has no value, if it does not affect your style of shooting, well I am thrilled for you all. And to address a comment (Dustin) you made a few times in your review, one of the primary reasons focus breathing was never an issue, was because the major camera companies never mentioned it, I have almost never read about it in the myriad of photo magazines that I read, and it was only within the last few years due to (we all know who made this well know, and I thank him and her for it) popularity of youtube. It is an issue now, because the camera companies can no longer pretend that it does not exist. We all have to make our own decision as to whether or not focus breathing and its extent is something that we can accept or not. Again thank you for your very informative review.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I definitely agree that it is a real issue, but I also think it is less of an issue than it has been made to be. If you sincerely believe that it will impact your work, go for the Canon, which actually breathes in the opposite direction.

[@metals2546]

It is not less of an issue than it has been made to be for those of us that use the 70-200 for portrait work in a studio that has limited space, or in venues where 'moving' is a challenge. I agree if used for other purposes, focus breathing is relatively inconsequential. I am rather fatigued in reading comments when one photographer attempts to tell another photographer that focus breathing is not an issue. And why ask me if I 'sincerely' believe that it will impact my. If I am stating that it does, that should be sufficient for you or another else.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I believe that is exactly what my final statement suggests to you. Choose the lens that suits your needs.

[@happyjr6288]

Brilliant review keep up the good work

[@reng6688]

People who said focus breathing is a non issue are usually fanboys of a particular brand, or they've placed their own ego on the equipment...how dare you to point out the imperfection of the lens I put all my hard earn saving in buying? Few years back, I commented on a photo blog about the severe focus breathing on the Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR II, and I got attacked from left and right. In fact, the hate/fanboy comments I received literally reached the maximum replies that was allowed on that site. On to a slightly different topics here. IMO, informed consumers yield to better products.

[@riccphoto]

Seriously, best reviews, very in depth, and un biased. keep going. u deserver more followers and likes.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you!

[@JoeJacksonJr]

Excellent video Dustin. I was concerned about the focus breathing at first, but since they increased the close focusing distance. Then IMHO that at least for me made up for the focus breathing issue. Hopefully will be picking up my copy of the G2 first of next week.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Definitely. I used the A009 for years, so I'm already familiar with the breathing issues. I'm just glad to see MM is improved.

[@JoeJacksonJr]

Yea I think everyone is just making it a much bigger deal then it really is.. We got so many photo gear heads that will hunt for something to complain about just to have something to complain about. While the rest of us will be happy to just be out shooting with the lens..:-)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That may be true for some people, but most people care right now because they have been made to care.

[@LowLightVideos]

Dustin Abbott + shaolin95 - 13:35 Probably not an issue because the majority didn't know what they were looking at or for, like their a Blind Inspector; worse is if you need to go to great lengths to explain the error (or their error) they have a lame or non-relevant justification for the behavior, a means to explain the stupidity. It's great that the Watercooler Crowd has picked up on the importance of this and other important things. It is like now they know that they have to know what they're talking about, not just grunt and swing their skull. Thanks for taking the time to do these Tests and help maintain the quest for at least acceptable quality and the rejection of what is clearly poor. It's awful when doing video, you turn any of the Rings and the view wobbles and wanders all over the place. YT, Rob

[@waynemarch6681]

I am trying to understand all the hostility. I am a Nikon shooter so the Canon lens is not an option. I use the 70-200mm on my D5 and D810. It works spectacularly. My choice was $2800 for new Nikon or $1300 for the new Tamron. And FOR ME the choice was easy. Has nothing to do with my understanding of photography, it was an ROI proposition.

[@WilliamWallaceRoss]

Thanks, Dustin, for the clarification. As with any technology, there are always some issues. I use the Canon and Tamron 70-200mm. Until recently, I never knew about focus breathing, but, I am a landscape photographer (amateur), and I shoot from great distances, normally. If I want a close up, then, I use my 50mm, 1.8. I can see where this might be a problem for some professionals.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's a real problem for very few people, but it was a big KZbin problem this year :)

[@OmahaWayne]

Outstanding work, and this is why I wait for a review from you before I purchase. I think part of the whole breathing is a big thing is that for the majority of canon shooters the 70-200 is the standard this lens is getting compared too. The canon focus breathes the other way giving even more compression at portrait distances. If you are shooting portraits or weddings you rarely are going to be outside 20 feet. So essentially you would be buying a 70-148 in the G2. I will wait for all the rest of your reviews and see how it stacks up in IQ and focus to the canon mkii. For many the choice will be the new Tamron G2 or a used 70-200 mkii which are very close in price. Thanks again for all the effort you put in to make fair, honest and in depth reviews. The only thing I don't understand is how you don't have more subscribers, considering your one of the best photo gear reviewers on KZbin.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I think it is about building a reputation. My channel is growing steadily by about 1000-1200 subscribers a month. It's never exploded, but thankfully it keeps moving in the right direction.

[@jensenbell4429]

Thank you for the explanation- I now understand what focus breathing actually is. Cheers!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Glad to help out.

[@karate-kampela2950]

So at 200mm focused in infinity for example shooting a wildlife the focal lenght is the same? So it is really a 200mm ?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's correct - it will frame at a full 200mm from about 30 feet out.

[@karate-kampela2950]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Thank you

[@darthgzuz]

focus breathing is not a big deal for landscape photographers and may be even for most of the wedding n portrait shooters. Closer focus distance is a much better thing to have than magnification/focus breathing (i think they both r related to each other). Im used G1 Tamron 70-200 with Canon 6D n now using same lens with D810 (nikon mount) and some times i wish it had closer focus distance. Anyway thanks for a detailed analysis, waiting for image quality and AF performance comparisons

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

If it is the close focus on the G1 that has troubled you, the G2 definitely helps with that.

[@sn4rl277]

Thank you for doing this video. Better than I have seen from other reviews that either dismiss it or talk about it like it is the plague. I did purchase the Tamron 70-200mm G2 mostly due to the focus breathing you showed here will not effect a majority of what I photograph. The Nikon 70-200mm VR2 was the other option and it exabits the same type of focus breathing as the G2. I don't see the reason to pay $600+ more for the Nikon FL VR3 or deal with the heavier Sigma Sport. So for me the price point was a huge factor for me with knowing the focus breathing at certain close focus lengths. I do believe that all camera manufactures should put the focus breathing in their specs so we know this before hand and can make adjustments as needed.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm glad the video helped.

[@martynphillips6646]

Just a superb explanation of the truth!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks for the nice feedback.

[@photographerjonathan]

good test. i already own the Cannon. but i would like to see a portrait test at 200mm to see the difference in background blur and compression. shooting full body. then waist up. and then head shot.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

At least one of those variations are in my final review.

[@johnkerr102]

For my use, focus breathing may be a blessing at the short end. What did the focus breathing look like at 70mm? I shoot baseball games, and the shots to first base are pretty tight with my current 70-200, so a little more wide angle would be helpful. I use a 70D. Thank you for your review. If I purchase, and I'm seriously considering it, I'll use your B&H links. I'm waiting for your final review.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

John, thank you all around. You'll see a visual comparison at 70mm to the Canon in my image quality review on Thursday.

[@theraven871]

I honestly think this entire issue is a bit over blown. At a wedding, when I'm shooting with my 70-200mm, I typically am focusing on subjects at a distance and focus breathing isn't an issue. If I'm doing a portrait photo shoot, and I'm using my 70-200mm for closer range shots......I simply take a step forward if I don't like my composition (But I'm much more inclined to shoot a prime lens at a photo shoot). The only time this would make a difference is if I physically had a barrier between my subject and I. In that case, I probably would want to use a longer focal length lens anyways.

[@Kaiyunnee]

I'm concert photography!I usually stand away from the stage and can't move.Focus breathing lens is not for me?I need long focal length not minimum focus.Sorry for my bad english.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Then the Canon lens is a better option for you.

[@genin69]

I was looking fwd to this lens but focus breathing killed it. why oh why do they do it?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

+genin69 It's the same as the previous generation lens, so nothing really changed there. They didn't "do" something new, but neither did they fix it in an appreciable way

[@lmartins2797]

Dustin, there's one missing aspect of this focus breathing issue discussion I would like to see addressed that is the differences between lenses on bokeh at close/infinity focus distances. How much of the quality of the out of focus background/subject separation is influenced by focus breathing on these lenses. Thanks and keep up the awesome work!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That is definitely a factor, and you should be able to look at the backgrounds in these comparisons and see the difference.

[@ernest4483]

Thanks Dustin I was going to get the Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 G2 for the Nikon D750 within this year

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Enjoy!

[@ckhatri13]

This is quite in-depth review for the "Focus Breathing" and it is well explained here by +Dustin Very good job!

[@moathahmed322]

Just what i wanted to know :) great review ... thank you .

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You're welcome.

[@dopamining7621]

As always, fantastic analysis. And now, I finally understand what `focus breathing` really means. Thanks.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's good news :)

[@sammadonline]

dopamining Not to confuse you any further but focus breathing means something else for video makers. 😊

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

LOL - you are absolutely right!

[@TheUberSchattenjager]

I returned the G2 for two reasons: 135mm is not 200mm. Yes it can focus closer, but I find that there needs to be comfortable space between you and the model / subject, so close focus would be useful to me about 35% of the time. 200mm is great for reach, but it is a portrait standard for flattering compression. That makes for a disappointing comparison test with the G2. Secondly, there was quite the yellow and orange color cast to the G2 images vs the G1 or the new Nikon. The G2 is AMAZING if you are cost comparing. But while some are upset with the breathing, I think just as many WANT this lens to be a game changer so badly, the day to day gets overlooked. I found it focused only slightly faster in real world shooting than the G1. SLIGHTLY. And after watching your excellent review above, I looked back at my own test images and have to wonder if your G1 needs adjustment. The focus on my G1 is tack sharp toward the edges while your copy showed significant blurring. Just a thought. Thanks for the hard work!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I shot with the G1 for three years, so I'm pretty familiar with what it can accomplish. If you are implying that the G2 focus breathes more than the G1, I just demonstrated that this is absolutely not the case. The color rendering is different - no doubt, though not dramatically.

[@panhaveng6788]

tamron has 70-200mm f2.8 G2 , Canon has just released their monster 70-200mm f2.8 mark III . i hope you get one for comparison soon

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I do plan to look at that lens and compare.

[@chrisviolette6303]

Thank you for this. If you haven't already finished taking your sample shots with the new 70-200mm, I'd love to see how much compression there is framed up close to someone for a beauty-style shot. Cheers!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I do intend to include a few portrait samples in my final review.

[@gameshoes]

Looking forward to your final verdict. As a Nikon user, and a hobbyist (not much money for the latest 70-200E), I don't think I'll be able to escape the focus breathing issues for a while. Still, the Tamron seems to bring a lot to the table. We'll have to see what Sigma brings out, and see if they address focus breathing, but I highly doubt that Sigma will be able to compete on price.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The Tamron price point is pretty incredible (at least in the US) for what it is bringing to the table!

[@bastianwur2957]

thanks for the review, it´s great, looking forward for the image test. I hope the price will drop a lot. Here in EU it´s currently 2093 US$ including tax. thats about 1760 US$ without tax - about 460$ more :O

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Other markets definitely suffer on price compared to US prices.

[@TheMrBennito]

I guess that through mentioning the name 'Northrup' we tend to run out of focus breath? So better not ... just kidding, great coverage as always by one of my few favorite YT reviewers/guess who. I found one of the comments here, by 'dunnymonster', very practical and as you replied yourself to that particular comment, '(that's) fair'; that the 200+ zoom lenses, focus breathing as they might do, basically are used for bringing long distance subject closer. That is their main purpose, as zoom lenses. Though the YT reviewer Darryl Warren praises the 120-300 Sigma OS 'S" , a prime focus breathing suspect, and his intention was/is to use that lens for portrait photography. Yet I do not know how exactly he defines a portrait. Just saying.

[@josecolon8143]

You just delivered an outstanding analysis!!!! Focus breathing is what it is, and you are right it should not be that great if an issue, but sometimes affects the composition, subject separation from background and the slim look on faces! But for the price, well why complain? Thanks for your expert analysis D.A! You are amazing!!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks for the feedback. Glad it helps.

[@djmarzek]

Great review! love those Takumar

[@fixitrod4969]

Is there a chart to show what the expected image coverage should be at specific distances and lens length? Seems they should have used a diffrent method to specify a lens other than the distance from sensor to lens since there are so many factors internal to the lens that could change the way light goes through. Or, are there calculations to determine this? Seems a lot of lenses including some nikon lens look just like the tamron and Sigma as far as image size. Why is Canon 70mm-200mm considered the reference? Has someone done calculations to figure out this lens is correct at diffrent distance intervals? Just trying to learn. Thanks

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's mostly that this was the frame of reference that I actually had.

[@fixitrod4969]

I understand. Do you know if there are calculations or are special tools required?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I think it can be done through calculations, though I haven't done it.

[@DanMoellering]

Thanks for the review. I find it interesting that one of the reviewers that's making the biggest deal over the focus breathing was recommending the previous version but won't even review the G2. I will be getting this as my first 70-200. Thanks

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Interesting. I wonder if he is under the impression that the G2 is actually worse in this area?

[@floriankessler4516]

Tony (let's name him) said he considers it to be worse. Though I still desperatly hope he will do a review on this lens. And I am also grateful, that he brought this topic up, so people can be aware of it and companies might be forced to address this topic more, when more people care about it. @Dan: Tony recommended it for Nikon Users especially but allways said, that he wouldn't give up his true 70-200 personally. I cannot see any logical conflict in this regard.

[@Fisu614]

Focus breathing can be a problem when I am photographing small birds at close distances. I love my 100-400 IS II in every other way, but when focused on a bird that is at 5 meters or closer the focus breathing prevents the image of the bird magnifying as much as it should when I walk closer to it. It is a bit frustrating that the bird hardly gets larger in the viewfinder even though I get considerably closer to it.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's definitely the true shortcoming of focus breathing. It only really impacts certain situations, but is a real issue in those situations.

[@agsornsinmua6400]

I had tamron 70-200 2.8 first version (none vc) and now I own tamron 70-200 2.8 vc g1. the g2 and g2 are terribly focus breathing. even when comparing to the og version.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The first one was fantastic in this area, doubling as a near-macro lens.

[@ERoossien]

Rather be able to focus from a closer range and have some focus breathing. As long as it's no issue from a large distance. Which it isn't.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Fair enough.

[@maxfactor4209]

what impressed me is the fact that how sharp is canon 100-400... amazing lens

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Oh, absolutely. It's a stunningly good lens.

[@DennisMoncla]

What I'm curious about is which lens is really giving you the accurate size for the distance you are taking the picture from? The Canon is larger at closer distances but is that the accurate size? Is the canon the correct one just because it's larger? Not that any of this matters but how do you measure which one is accurately portraying the subject? Maybe I'm way off base with the question but I guess my point is does this make the Tamron (or any other lens) bad because one other lens magnified the subject more? I get that I'd probably like the magnification more times than not but I just wonder which lens is more true to the subject.

[@OmahaWayne]

IMO, it does not make the Tamron "bad" at all. It's been shown on other youtube video's that the canon is actually like 220mm at closer ranges because it focus breathes the other direction. I think for most its about the compression you lose in the background when shooting close in subjects. When your lens is actually 148mm instead of the 200 you thought you were using. It's really only evident when you compare it to the Canon 70-200, but I wouldn't say either of the lenses is bad. They just have different characteristics. Those that shoot most shots in tight will want that added compression, those that dont wont care because the breathing does not affect them.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

From what I understand from the feedback of others, the answer is neither. The Tamron is a little short at close distances the Canon actually breathes long. The correct magnification is roughly the average of the two lenses.

[@DennisMoncla]

Rubi Doo I agree. I guess the Tamron in this situation can be an asset if the same holds true at 70mm. It would allow a much wider shot than the canon.

[@DennisMoncla]

Thanks Dustin. Still looking forward to the full review of this bad boy.

[@ValiRossi]

Focus breathing isn't a big deal for most people. I guess I could see an issue if you were doing some sort of product photography and needed to do a composite of multiple focus points. As you focused across the subject at different points, it could cause a scaling problem that you would have to correct when you stitched the shots together in post. Really good video. I have the G1 on a Nikon D810. I think I have a particularly sharp copy. It's really nice.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I had a great copy, too. I think you'll find in my IQ comparison (coming Thursday) that the G2 has nicely improved in pretty much every metric.

[@dunnymonster]

Focus breathing seems to be more of an issue for people using short to mid length telephoto lenses, I refer mainly to those within the trinity, the 24 - 70 and the 70 - 200. Beyond those focal lengths (200mm + ), even if they exhibit focus breathing, its rarely noticed because those lenses are not used close up. Pretty much all signs of focus breathing vanish when the lenses are focused on subjects that are far away, which of course is the main purpose of a telephoto lens after all. It's not an issue for me personally but I can understand why some might be bothered by it.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's fair.

[@deanbaird]

Good job as always. I don’t think it’s unreasonable for people to be aware of focus breathing and hope that a 70-200mm lens is 70-200mm across the range of focal distances. Nikon seems to have done some serious engineering on their FL ED version to attenuate the issue while maintaining extraordinary sharpness and reducing the minimum focus distance. Their 70-200 FL ED is expensive, but everyone who has it seems to agree it’s the best lens in their kit. If it’s not an issue for someone, they can save money and get a nice Tamron. Seems odd they would feel a need to castigate those with dissimilar inclinations for ... having dissimilar inclinations. But here we are.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Welcome to KZbin, or Twitter, or politics, or discussion in general in 2018. It's not enough to have your own opinion - you have to attack something to be relevant. Sigh. It gets old fast.

[@deanbaird]

Too true. The unvarnished sexist bigotry on display in comments under some Jeep-related videos is even more abhorrent. I can’t douse the craziness everywhere, but I don’t mind calling it out where I see it. Sometimes all I can muster is a “Stay classy, X” where X is the offender. I’m left to wonder when some of these folks are going to move out of their parents’ basements.

[@LuisFernandezSalazar]

Great review Dustin, besides the fact that you can actually loose some compression on the look, the fact that it breaths relevantly in the closeup range means that you will have to move between some inches to a step... that 99% of the times will be possible... and watching at your samples... the image quality is superb, a truly stellar performer.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Basically it will behave like most every modern 70-200 save the Canon (which actually breathes longer rather than shorter) at close range.

[@marvin9952]

Great Review Dustin! Your reviews are pretty good for people who want to buy these lenses - dig deeper than usual reviewers. I have a very old 70-200L lens, about to replace it with a newer lens with IS/VC.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's what I want to to hear, Marvin!

[@ThePointblank]

I think with the issue is that the 70-200 lenses are expected to be used up close by portrait and wedding photographers, so focus breathing is an issue for those types of photographers. The 100-400 is used for it's ability to go out and reach objects far away, so focus breathing at close distances isn't a concern with those photographers. That's why there is such a backlash with focus breathing with the 70-200 lenses; the issue crops up in the type of work portrait and wedding photographers do. You need the stated focal length to get a nice tight shot in situations where you can't always control the distance.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I agree that there is an issue; I just don't think it is quite as big of deal as it has recently been made out to be.

[@Smoothblue90]

Thank you. Your reviews, and Matt Granger's reviews, of the Tamron lenses are fantastic. Very helpful to me in deciding to go with Tamron lenses for my Nikon D750. Subscribed. Liked. Commented.

[@stephenmorgan5414]

Brilliant video and very well explained.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks for the kind feedback.

[@dans.8198]

Great review, Dustin.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks, Dan

[@aaron62688]

dustin could you do a sharpness comparison between the 70-200 with the 2x and the new canon 100-400?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I did do that in the episode on teleconverters here: bit.ly/TamronTC. You can also find more in the episode on image quality from the 70-200 G2

[@danielwilliams1571]

once again a brilliant review! however now im a bit stumped... was seriously considering getting the 100-400mm ii from canon but having seen this and how it olny focuse to about 280mm at close focusing distance im not so sure now...

[@dohboy88]

Dude, get the 100-400 ii. It's brilliant. It will naturally breath at closer distances because they reduced the minimum focus distance by so much. You're not buying that lens for close up distances, anyways.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

280mm is not correct. I compared it to the Tamron G2 with a 2.0x converter (400mm). The Tamron converter does not always register the focal length accurately. There is some minor focus breathing, yes, but the lens is brilliant. I love it.

[@invictushakil]

Hi Dustin, just got my hands on my new Tamron 70-200 G2, when I shake it slightly it seems like some parts are moving inside. Did you notice something similar? Should I be worried? Also did you notice any AutoFocus improvement/change compared to the A009 version? Your reply would be greatly appreciated.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I've got two copies on hand and haven't noticed that. As far as the AF. Yes, the AF is more confident overall and a bit faster. I notice the improvement more in AF Servo shooting; I found the A009 a good focusing (and accurately focusing) lens already.

[@fixitrod4969]

That's the VC components.

[@miguellopez-araus7020]

A very good video, Dustin!!!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks!

[@onetorino]

Thank you for the helpful and informative perspective. What are your thoughts on whether this could be beneficial on a crop sensor body such as the 80D?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The only upside I see is that it might give you a little more operating room in smaller spaces while still giving you reach in infinity situations.

[@onetorino]

That's what I was thinking, your insight is much appreciated. I'm going to save for this lens. I look forward to your remaining videos on this exciting new lens. And the 6D mk II later this year. ;-)

[@jaimeduncan6167]

Excellent, as expected keep the extraordinary Job. Thanks for the comprehensive answer to your readers question

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

My pleasure.

[@dmlchannel3262]

Just another outstanding, fact based video, from a trusted reviewer.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you

[@sickhcivc]

Do you know when you will be reviewing the sigma 24-70 Art and Tamron 24-70 G2?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

+sickhcivc I expect the Sigma this weekend. The Tamron (in a Canon mount) is delayed for another month

[@sickhcivc]

Dustin Abbott awesome looking forward to it, I had the previous Tamron and the focus breathing was terrible, I landed up selling it

[@What_Other_Hobbies]

please try extension tubes and see how much they can help.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I have, and they do, but are only useful in certain situations. Using a 12mm tube gives you some improvement and only limits focus on further targets. A 23mm tube helps more, but limits your focus range more, too.

[@What_Other_Hobbies]

It will be great to see those results and limits added to the next video. It's always great to watch your quantified analytic videos

[@tomasgorbacas8054]

How abouth Canon EF 70-200/4 IS L and Nikkor 70-200/4 VR - do they "breathe"?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Not that I know of, but I haven't tested them either.

[@FR42G]

Hey Dustin, really appreciate the in-depth review of this lens and I in fact did buy it off your recommendation. But I have now received it and I cannot see how this tamron focus breathes. I think your testing has a problem. The canon focus breathes in by like 22mm when close. But when looking through my viewfinder on my tamron and changing the focus I couldn't see that the fov changed the tiniest bit. I love the lens and to me focus breathing wouldn't even be an issue but I don't think it focus breathes at all. Could you please verify my findings? My sigma 35mm f/1.4 ART does indeed focus breathe quite heavily and it is visible in the viewfinder when I go from closest to furthest focus. Great content!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

There are two different kinds of focus breathing. One application is for video (where the size of the subject changes or not due to focus), and a second application for still due to magnification/framing at close focus distances. This lens definitely does the latter.

[@Rajendrakpatelproduction]

Dustin Abbott should i go with canon 70 200 2.8 or tamron g2 or wait for new canon lens ?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

If you will wait a week or two I will release a video where I compare the pros and cons of both lenses.

[@Rajendrakpatelproduction]

cool thnx

[@larsl6508]

Great review Dustin, is it correct that there is no breathing when focusing at infinity? (From 70 to 200 mm)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's correct.

[@hdrsmit]

VERY good presentation focus breathing (for me) IS a factor to consider if you are a portrait photographer. distance to subject is ALWAYS a factor in a studio .. a 100-400 is rarely if ever used in a studio and is not otfen used up close. otoh, 70-200 zooms are found in most every studio - nikon's newest is far and away the best in terms of overall performance and yes it's at the top of the list price wise. i only brought this up because i didn't see that aspect presented in detail. my only other issue with focus breathing is "because it's there", and manufacturers don't discuss it much until the customer base makes them fix it.....and the nikon seems to prove it's possible :-) when photographers demand something, i think today's lens makers are capable of delivering. and price is always relevant but not always the highest priority

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Price was obviously a factor with Nikon, and I would be interested in knowing what sales are compared to the VR II. How many people care enough to spend the extra $700.

[@italy74]

Just for the files and a comparison, also the Nikon 70-200 VR2 is known to suffer from remarkable focus breathing (about 135mm at mfd instead of 200mm); I have no idea how the new and terribly expensive 70-200 compares in this regard.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It is improved in this area, but, as you note, it is incredibly expensive.

[@italy74]

Thanks again Mr. Abbott. Your way of working (and being always ready to reply to the occasional commenter) is a great plus for Canon shooters. While I'm on the opposite side of the river, I always enjoy your videos and I'm sure Canon should recognize more the work you do. Bravo.

[@haydsbrownvisualmedia1535]

Hi Dustin, Thanks very much for all your awesome work that you do with these reviews! I am very interested to know the compatibility of the G2 and Canon 5D Mk iv with video functionality. I purchased a 15-30mm f2.8 Tamron a week back but had to return is because it wasn't compatible in video mode... If you could give me some info it would be great! I am trying to organise a loan unit to test it myself but just wanting to know if I'm wasting my time or not... Regards from South Africa

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

First of all - the 15-30 VC is compatible with the 5D Mark IV, but needs a firmware update. I had to do the same thing to mine after switching to the 5D Mark IV. Just send it to Tamron and they will quickly update it for you. It works flawlessly after the update. The new lens has perfect compatibility, and the lenses that are compatible with the Tap In console can have their firmware updated in a few second at home.

[@haydsbrownvisualmedia1535]

Thats fantastic news! Thank you for your reply Dustin, I look forward to following your channel... I shall be purchasing the G2 then...:D

[@wallstreetoneil]

Very interesting comparison with the Canon 100-400Lii (maybe one of Canon's most beloved lenses currently sold - and I have never heard this issue mentioned about this lens either). In fact, if people were broadly aware about it, it would likely hurt sales and point people towards the 70-200 with a 2X.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Perhaps, though extenders do funny things to image quality. The 70-200L II does quite well, but the bokeh gets quirkier (and busier), and there is more distortion and CA introduced by the additional elements on the extender. I always prefer a bare lens, myself, and to only use extenders when necessary. If someone only occasionally needed 280 or 400mm, though, the 70-200L II + extenders is a decent choice.

[@UltimateTuner10]

Great vid Dustin, just stumbled onto your channel and your comprehensive style is now in my subscriptions. It seems like this is an issue for some but not most. It IS a bit disappointing that most of the breathing differences are between as you said 6-18 feet because I feel like that’s majority of portrait work. I don’t expect this to be an issue for most shooting situations though. The Tamron g2 is what, half the price of the Canon MKii? Difference can be used to purchase another lens! I AM shocked by how much teleconverters cost for the Tamron g2 though

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Yes, you would expect there to be a little bigger gap in pricing on the TCs, but it is what it is...

[@stevenlui8105]

Great and thorough review! It will be great if you could include the latest Nikon counterpart in the test! Really wanna know how the Tamron G2 compares......

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm afraid you will have to look to the Nikon reviewers for that.

[@VengeFulHemi]

I really enjoy your videos Mr. Abbott. I am a subscriber now. I do have a question: I just purchased a new Canon SL2 with the 18-55 IS kit lens. I am going to be purchasing(within two months) a better lens. I have narrowed my choices to the Canon 55-250/f4 IS STM or the Tamron 70-200/2.8 VC G2. I like the canon because of it's focal length but it's max aperture is only f4 vs the Tamron which has less of a reach, but has a nice f2.8 aperture. I would love the reach for videoing sports at stadiums(I know neither is a sports lens), but more light(through the better fstop would also be a great benefit. Could you provide insight or suggestion? BTW, I watched your reviews on both and it makes it all the more harder to choose.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Will you be doing continuous autofocus for shooting the video of the sports?

[@VengeFulHemi]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Well, i'm used to auto because that is what I have used in every camera I owned. If I could be confident of manual focusing(where it could be quicker), I would do that. I'm a rookie with my past cameras, and as well with this new sl2. But I am very excited about learning. Many many thanks for responding to me so soon, and god bless.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

If you are going to use continuous autofocus, I would recommend going for this lens instead: bhpho.to/2PSw9ZN. It has very fast, very quiet focus, and should have a good focal range for stadium shooting.

[@paulhills1967]

Thank you for a great video.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

My pleasure.

[@EmoEmu]

Thanks for making this video. I wonder how something like the Canon 200mm f/2.8 L prime lens does in a test like this. It's an older lens and might actually deliver 200mm when focused close. I think focus breathing is something people talk about with the 70-200 lenses because so many people use them for tight headshots expecting to get 200mm. Probably not a whole lot of people out there using a 100-400 lens for that purpose. ;)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's true, but I did want to make the point that this is hardly a third party issue.

[@EmoEmu]

Yup. I think you covered this issue really well. I think people will get where it's an issue and where it isn't.

[@ianmcpartland9306]

I have the G1 (A009) and when I've tested the minimum focus distance I can get down to 103 cm

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm going by the cited numbers, and remember that figure is from the sensor, not the front of the lens.

[@ianmcpartland9306]

ah, ok. I measured from front of the lens. That will add on another 20 cm or so

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That really throws a lot of people.

[@Connor_Dempsey]

Great Review

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks, Shawn.

[@vikk9596]

great video

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you!

[@stephenlikestools6846]

I am not a portrait photog. But it seems to me the resulting proportional rendering, particularly caucasian facial, resulting bokeh without TC would be the more significant factors than focus breathing. Minimum focusing distances can make or break getting some shots. Bokeh and proportioning of features seems to be the reason to own these lenses for most buyers. I am one of those outlier prospective buyers, (next year) desiring increased AF speed and bokeh flexibility for hummingbirds over my 300 f/4.0L IS. And more so as lens 2 on on body two to replace the 55-250mm 4 stop IS STM. As obscure as my needs are, more people might be affected by my considerations than those actually affected by breathing. Hard to tell.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

AF speed and quality rendering should be important to many shooters, I believe, and fortunately the G2 does pretty well on both counts.

[@scarmenl]

If all of the brands are allowing their lenses to be less than stated then I guess we can take that claimed zoom range as a classification instead of an exact number. Because you can be very sure that none of the companies will be changing any time soon.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Very few lenses are exactly their standard focal length, but all of them have a certain allowable percentage. Focus breathing is not the same as cheating on the focal length, though.

[@sammadonline]

Dustin Abbott well said. Focus breathing is at "minimum focus distance" not necessarily through the entire focal range. You will eventually hit close to 200mm at some point on the lens

[@scarmenl]

I think we are saying the same thing in different ways.

[@hiddenpk1]

I want to point out that canon 70-200L mark 2 is actually greater than 200mm at near focus. So it is a poor lens to compare if you want accurate results. I believe it's closer to 230 based on someone's hard work. He compared it to the old tamron.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I was unaware of that until today, but several people have pointed that out.

[@dyeless]

Don't care much about tamron or canon, but I like your primes :D

[@suhas274]

One thing bothered me more than focus breathing in this tutorial was, if there's any cushion on floor below if any of the heavy tanks take a fall if Dustin's elbow hit them.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

LOL. They all survived.

[@damonandtristan3615]

A great review - thanks Dustin. The focus breathing really did seem like a non issue to me and I can see the minimum focal range being a selling feature. One of these may be making it's way into my lens collection eventually.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's a very nice lens. Enjoy!

[@FlorianCortese]

Thanks Dustin for another great review. Focus Breathing is really not a great concern or issue for me as it might be for others. I found a great review by Matthew Gore done comparing the previous Tamron 70-200 v the Canon 70-200 Mark II with a detailed explanation & comparison on focus breathing where he found the Canon actually focused breathed to the positive side, i.e. 220 rather than 200. Or something along those lines. This resulted in the Canon looking much "better." Here is the link in case anyone is interested. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rITYd6V_js58hLc IMO, I think this is much ado about nothing for most photographers. The fact that with the G2 you can focus closer is a bonus. My main concern is IQ, focus capture and how well the tele extenders work and whether they effect the focus points on the new 5D Mark IV as compared to the older Canon 70-200 Mark II, which is 6+ years old now. A great lens, but I am awaiting your full review and comparison for those answers.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You're the second person to raise that point, and I'm glad you did.

[@floex831]

Well said, I saw Matt Gore's review a while back and saw that too. I'm not a Canon user so I never experienced it myself. Did on the Nikon side though, and that VR II was as bad as the Tamron G1.

[@leojonkers3181]

I already had seen that great review by Matthew Gore. Like Dustin's reviews they are very good from Matthew. There are a lot big mouth (commercial) posters around, I would not name names. But normally you can tell in take two or three reviews.

[@leojonkers3181]

I agree, I also think most people do not know what focus breathing is. But there is nothing wrong to have a look at the behavior of lenses about this matter and explain what it really is. And it is a good thing that this issue is not an issue for so called third party lenses. Sigma, Tamron, Tokina and lots of others have proved that third party is not bad thing.

[@rajjen2008]

Florian Cortese p

[@Milagerdi]

Hi Dustin, as you know and many of us as well Focus breathing is not as critical issue as people make of it (including you .. dedicating a 16 minutes video to just this topic...) , well I guess by now we all know that many photography gear reviewers are trying to get more views for their videos regardless of their content.First a "Preview" basically repeating the rumors from other rumor sites... Then comes the "Frist Look" basically going through specs that everybody has access to them anyway. Instead of being honest with viewers and jump into the main concern / interest of viewers mainly Lens Image quality, performance and Autofocus acquisition, speed, and on ...I think by jumping directly to such toppings you'll get more viewers who appreciate good content which help them in their buying decision .Focus Breathing in my opinion is the last in buyers list to check when they are going for a quality glass. Thanks,

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you for your opinion, but if you read through the comments here you'll find that there are a lot of people that wanted this answer.

[@hsbokra]

take a 90mm macro. . . it does all. . . but less focal length as compare to 200mm which is use less in many cases :)

[@NoDramaAllowed]

amazing

[@kyfeam]

tell it like it is homie.. hasn't swayed me from buying the Tamron

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

+Shawn Turnbull :)

[@robertbrody4032]

Amateur shooters don't understand why few pros would waste money on the Tamron. The focus breathing means inferior bokeh at closer distances. Look at the back edge of the table and note that the Canon blurs it to buttery softness, while the Tamron shows a more distinct edge. This why some people will opt for a pro lens truly capable of 200mm at closer distances. It's not a small difference. Hopefully Tamron will fix this on the G3 version.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The tradeoff of that is the Canon is actually tight at 70mm for some event work while the Tamron frames wider at close distances. It's all a tradeoff.

[@robertbrody4032]

@@DustinAbbottTWI That really makes no sense. I buy a 70-200 for that focal length. I didn't buy it for 65mm, so it's not a trade off. It's a bad design. The proof of this is that following the 70-200 VRII, Nikon got so much flack over the breathing issue, that they fixed it on the 70-200 F4 and new FL. I buy a 70-200 for that range. Tamron continues to have the same issue, which makes it a weaker lens for portrait work or ANY shooting at closer ranges. And let's be honest: Most want the 70-200 for the longer end, which the Tamron falls short on below 12 feet or so.

[@MrModerate_kane]

this is great overview thanks, tbh i have been so happy with the G2 i didnt even know, until i have gone further into it. Tested it with a friend and i see it now, but am i still happy with G2, yes but its half the price of the Nikon. Its a play off, semi pro yes its ok, pro no, nikon 70-200 all the way.(nikon £2,400 tamron £1,200).

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's a great value compared to the Nikon. I use the lens all the time.

[@EmadAbbas89]

I have the old tamron vc and I never felt it's bad this much. So I do see for a 500$ difference here. the older tamron is a better choice.. . secondly no one buys the 70-200 mm to shoot at less than two metres so who cares! . . About portraits, I think that bokeh is a little bit better on the canon for headshots but it's not a big deal with the price difference.. sharpness, focus speed and the vc is what make both tamron lenses great choices..

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The A009 is not better; it is the same. I personally often shoot these type of lenses at less than two meters, so I do care.

[@EmadAbbas89]

Dustin Abbott You care because you don't care about the 1000 $ difference price. for people like me , 1000$ can buy great lightening system which can improve my photography.. right? . . but you know such unimportant things in the lens will push many people to buy the canon and spend a year or months just to afford another lens or good flashes..

[@TheVitalishe]

Emad Abbas The first generation VC when bought used in excellent condition is still a good choice. But I would not be basing my opinion just on this video. There are more important points to be discussed: sharpness, AF, TAP-in console, TCs. This is a workhorse lens for many. As such it will be used in a variety of situations, including under 2m. So it is nice to know what it is capable of.

[@enriquematos6461]

Well well... IMO, nothing in this video relates to focus breathing. He is mainly comparing the focal length and framing of different brands. Definition: Focus breathing is a term that is used to describe the small change in focal length of a lens that occurs as the focus is adjusted from infinity to MFD or vice versa. If you look through the viewfinder of your camera and rotate the lens’ focus ring from one extremity to the other, you will see that the lens appears to zoom in or out very slightly. This change is called focus breathing. So, to see if a lens has focus breading he has to compare the changes on the framing of the same lens when it focuses at different distances. Even if two lenses have totally different framing at the same focal length, they could still not breathe when the focus is changed.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You are referring to how the term is used in relation to video work while the controversy over this lens is all about focus breathing as it applies to stills photography at close focus distance. In that context (the proper one), the whole video is in context.

[@XDR2201]

Thank you for this awesome test. Can you test the focus breathing of Sony 70-200 2.8 GM and compare it to Canon 70-200 2.8 II?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm afraid I don't have access to that lens right now.

[@shang-hsienyang1284]

If I'm really concerned about focus breathing, I'll just get an extension tube to go along with this lens and call it a day.

[@helthuismartin]

It should be called Foculpointbreathing instead of focusbreathing.

[@donkeyholmes4581]

excellent video, couldn't agree more about this being the latest buzz topic being blown out of proportion, not helped by a certain couple that never seem to shut up about it.

[@floriankessler4516]

Come on. Stop that Tony and Chelsea bashing. Be grateful that they made people aware of that topic. and be grateful that Dustin Abbott puts it in relation to other aspects. Watch Tony's portrait lens comparison and you will most defintly find a major difference in the background compression. That problem exists. He names it. Dustin names it. Don't kill the envoy just because you do not like the message!

[@JoeJacksonJr]

@ Roger, LOL how many references did he make to his book or dxo during the video.. hehe I personally like Tony, but I do not always agree with him.

[@sv6069]

НУУУ НАКОНЕЦТО!!!!!!!!!!TNX A LOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@generation4523]

2 lenses? To keep or to keep?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

They are loaners. I am not given lenses.

[@elysiumcore]

how is the sharpness compared to Canon - all I care about

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Come back later this week to find out.

[@elysiumcore]

Sounds good. i am currently using @ Tokyo Fashion Week. it is killing it !!

[@robertbrody4032]

I have no idea why people don't see this as a serious issue. It RUINED the Nikon 70-200 VRII for many shooters. These lenses are popular wedding tools (just one example) as they are fantastic for portrait work. But a lens with serious focus breathing is NOT even close to 200mm, so you will NEVER get the DOF and bokeh effects you'd expect at 200mm. Moving closer is NOT the same thing because the optical formula defeats the bokeh and DOF of the longer focal length. So unless you plan to use the Tamron at longer ranges, you just bought a 70-145mm lens. Nikon now has a new 70-200 that addresses this issue and the Canon was already excellent in this regard. The newest Nikon actually bests the Canon, but they're both excellent. If you want a true 70-200, avoid the Tamrons.

[@joata43]

If I am paying for a 200 MM lens (and I want that 200 MM reach) and I only get an effective range of 135 MM --which is advertised as 200 MM than I am not getting the product I am paying for --call it a quirk--but still isn't this really not an apples to apples comparison? Yes the Tamron seems sharper --and the price makes it even for me more attractive but if I want a reach of 200 MM will I have to buy another Tamron lens--say a 300 MM to satisfy my reach requirement? BJ

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That depends on what distance you are shooting at. If it is 25 feet or more, you are getting 200mm. If is less, that will depend on your distance from the subject. I'm not crazy about it, either, but characterizing it as being a 135mm lens isn't accurate, either.

[@joata43]

Dustin Abbott Thank you. In reality it seems this was not an issue because most people were not aware of this issue. This will make it more difficult for less informed consumers to make good purchasing decisions when we are forced to compare the real capabilities of lenses for which we may not be armed with the kind of technicalities that are required to make accurate decisions. I hope you understand my point. Let the buyer beware indeed.

[@faudanke4459]

just show us the video of focus breathing happening its much simpler you know (im not hating btw but good review)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks for the feedback. I wanted to give a more nuanced coverage of the issue since it has been such a major hot issue as of late.

[@marioplus321]

I had noticed that long ago before I got a name for it. FB was not an issue for me taking it for granted lenses just work like that. Now it has become the problem on the Internet for some people. Is it really? Not for me :)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

+marioplus321 Certain popular people on this space have made it a big deal.

[@marioplus321]

Correct me if I am wrong, please; the issue concerns only zoom lenses with internal AF ?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

+marioplus321 That's correct, to my knowledge.

[@rogermiller7653]

Dustin: What seems to be notable is that while you mention that all the lenses you have reviewed lately Focus Breath the fact that the comparison, here, is focused on 70-200mm Zooms is that you make it appear by your comparison that the Canon 70-200mm F/2.8 L II does not. Honestly, there are so many instances where Focus Breathing is a significant problem and does not matter that the fickle, skipping from "cookie of the hour" topic to another, internet crowd that can act like a herd of sheep. I think it would have been nice for you to point out how in real world applications focus breathing does matter. All that said, you have by far one of the most meat and potatoes efficiency in reviews of any. I ask anyone to go back to other reviewers and see how much time they waste rambling on about themselves or just poor planning before getting in front of the camera and microphone. You hit it spot on once you have spent enough time behind a camera to realize what is important.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Roger, in the next episode on Image Quality I do point out out how the loss of compression equals the loss of ability to create as much bokeh/subject isolation. That episode is already uploaded, but the public can't see it yet

[@05xrunner]

The reason it seems so far off, its because the Canon at MFD is not at 200mm either. its closer to 230mm like calculated in this review fast forward to 5:25 kzbin.info/www/bejne/rITYd6V_js58hLc that is what makes it seem like the Tamron is so much further off but its closer to 200 just the canon being at 230mm at MFD makes it seem like the tamron is way off from 200mm but its not that far off. personally i dont see what all this fuss is everyone keeps spewing out about focus breathing for any lens. It seems to be the only spec anyone cares about anymore and its a treated like its some serious problem when anyone should be able to work around it without even thinking of it. Its just one white hair smug youtuber blows it out of proportion so thats all anyone seems to be able to talk about.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's interesting, and, if true, helps show why everything else seems so off. That must have been true for Tamron's original 70-200, too, as it had an incredible amount of magnification.

[@05xrunner]

then I suggest you learn how to do the math and calculate it yourself to find out what you come up with. If someone was willing to do the math to find the true values is alot more then just looking at pictures and saying oh yea thats the focal length