You NEED a SUPERZOOM lens!!

[@TonyAndChelsea]

Here's our recommendations for superzoom lenses for different platforms: Sony APS-C cameras (such as the a6000, a6100, a6400, a6500, a6600): sdp.io/mt18300 Sony full frame cameras (such as the a7 III, a7 IV, a7R III, a7R IV): sdp.io/mt28200 Fujifilm X-mount (such as the X-T4, X-H1, X-H2, X-T5, X-T3, X-T30): sdp.io/mf18300 Canon RF cameras (such as the R, RP, R5, R6, R3): sdp.io/mc24240 Canon RF-S cameras (such as the R7, R10): sdp.io/mc18150 Canon EF-S cameras (Rebel, 7D, 70D, 80D, 90D): sdp.io/mc18400 Nikon DX cameras (D3300, D3400, D5500, D500): sdp.io/mn18400 Nikon DX mirrorless cameras (Zfc, Z50): sdp.io/mz18140 Nikon Z cameras (Z5, Z6, Z7, Z9): sdp.io/mz24200 Olympus cameras (OM-1, EM-1, EM-5, EM-10): sdp.io/mo12100

[@jeckeymekayten7938]

Thank you for another fun&useful vid.Say, is there a lens which can produce wide pictures as the Fujifilm Tx1\Hasselblad X-Pan??

[@billakers7650]

What do you think of the Nikon 24-120 f/4 VR for my Nikon D810?

[@michaeldensley6175]

@@billakers7650 Consider it a good F5.6 lens and an ok F4 one.

[@arthurmarshall6825]

Nothing for Canon EF-M? I will admit that EF-S Tamron 18-400 looks really interesting. I'll keep it in mind once I get an adaptor.

[@Fessoid]

Way too much of advertasing

[@stefanbecker9526]

Don't forget the ultimate "people photography superzoom": the Tamron 35-150mm f2.0-f2.8. Sharpness and bokeh of this are amazing. The focal range is huge and very useful.

[@CWelton6]

My favorite everything lens

[@rickt.8866]

I’m loving mine on my Sony A7IV. Pairing it with the new Tamron 20-40mm F2.8, the holy duo!

[@dylanfgarrison]

My favorite day to day lens. A little heavy but the 35 mm f2 to 150 f2.8 is totally worth it.

[@DanYosua]

hate not having access to this one as an RF shooter 😕

[@bngr_bngr]

A 70-200/4.0 is my go to zoom.

[@kevenspargo6829]

I have and love the Tamron 28-200 for Sony. It provides an unbeatable combo of zoom range, image quality, size, weight, and price. Small correction for the video, though: It does not have vibration compensation. You have to rely on IBIS and shutter speed for sharp images.

[@radioaktivmarder]

I Loved the 28-200mm Tamron but i Sold it and got the 28-75mm G2 Tamron instead. I Just didn't like the bokeh of the 28-200mm.

[@AustinandtheDrafts]

Is it a full frame lens?

[@thekingofhearts8687]

@@AustinandtheDrafts yes

[@arifalam9628]

@@radioaktivmarder Please can you elaborate on the Bokeh issue, I was thinking of getting this as opposed to the Sony GM 24-70. Thank you

[@d3xmeister]

I learned this many years ago. I always travel, or go on vacations, or I’m out with “normal” people doing “normal” stuff, with just one lens, a super zoom. Never take any other lenses with me. If it’s not a photo trip, or an outing where I know exactly I go to shoot and what I’m shooting, I don’t bother bringing any other lenses. The result: much, much better photos. Because for photos on the go, you’d never have the right lens on the camera, most of what you’ll do is changing lenses, hurry, and distress everything and everybody. However, when I do ho on photo trips and outings alone or with my photographer friends, I bring the big boy toys. I love primes especially.

[@Yankeededandy62]

I prefer my 2.8 24-70mm lens for my running and gunning shots with the R6. If push comes to shove, cropping is possible und usually pretty good. But 90% of my shots are done within the zoom range of 24-70 and the images are (in my opinion) much better than with any super zoom lens I ever tried.

[@d3xmeister]

@@Yankeededandy62 They are not if you can’t take them. What I shoot as a photography hobbyist rarely fits in that focal range range. Most of my shots are 120mm and up, or on the ultra wide side 15mm to 20mm. The 24-70mm though, as a lens to shoot outings with friends and family, yes, it’s a great choice, for me it’s the only time I use that range. The 24-70mm f/2.8 is also a perfect lens for professionals shooting events, I’d say it’s the probably the single “must have” lens. So yes, it depends a lot on what you shoot.

[@srac-n4t]

Which super zoom do you recommend? I have a Sony A7RV

[@d3xmeister]

@@srac-n4t The Tamron 28-200 is amazing. My best friend has it on a A7RIII, for a zoom with that range the optical quality is awesome, it is fairly small and light, again for that kind of range, and also does not break the bank.

[@LuisCabanzonGutierrez]

The Tamron 28-200m is definitely a versatile lens (my latest acquisition, replacing the 28-75mm as my always-with-me lens) but, despite of the opposite being said several times in this video, it DOES NOT HAVE image stabilisation!! At least one can mitigate that (to some extend) with the in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) from Sony cameras.

[@frederickbrault9805]

Last winter we went on a 4 months family trip and I had brought the Canon RF 24-240mm. Amazing lens and I'm super happy with the pictures quality! About 95% of the pictures taken were with that lens and the remaining was with the 35mm 1.8 for low light situations or for when I wanted to carry a lighter kit.

[@bobgolfs4432]

I purchased the Tamron 18-300 for Fuji in early December during one of their promotions. Great price, but after seeing the results, I would have paid full price. During the holidays, I used the lens almost exclusively versus my primes. Thrilled with the results. And as you said in your video, the versatility really made it so much easier to take photos of kids and grandkids doing their thing!

[@TicaHikes]

I am considering the 18-300 on the XT5. Can you let me know ow which Fuji camera bilody are you using it with?

[@bobgolfs4432]

@@TicaHikes I am using it with the X-T3. Used it today with my grandkids. Very versatile for following them around.

[@ERNReed]

As a Pentax DSLR shooter, my most versatile lens is the Pentax 18-135. It’s a little shorter than the superzooms you discussed, but it covers a good range on the APS-C format. It’s also weather-resistant, like the camera bodies.

[@leotomma3494]

I love Pentax, they're underrated, I use a 28-200 full frame lens, very versatile

[@PhotoswithArt]

I use 18-140mm for Nikon, yes I agree it's a good range.

[@buggersofoz]

Great video! This consideration (and lack of the Tamron 18-300mm at the time) drove me away from my A6000 and into M50+Tamron 18-400mm with even crazier reach. When I switched the body to 7D2, this gear became too heavy for hikes though, so I replaced it with an Olympus E-M1 and M.Zuiko 14-150mm for half the price of the Canon kit! It has the reach of 28-300 on full frame and when I slap it on my second body (E-PM2 that I almost got for free on eBay), it weighs the same as a pint of beer! And still takes great pictures! Gotta love super zooms!

[@benstone3323]

The Tamron 28-200 is, in my humble opinion, the absolute best lens for landscape photography on sony. Good enough at all focal lengths. But also light, and covers so much focal length. I just hike with it and the 16-35.

[@robertcudlipp3426]

Just not wide enough for me.

[@benstone3323]

@@robertcudlipp3426 hence why I also bring my 16-35. Having two lenses cover 16-200 is nothing short of amazing

[@suziechampagne357]

I have a Tamron 18-270 mm 3.5-6.3 with VC. It is mounted on a Canon SL1. It's the only one I have and fits my needs perfectly. When I bought this 9 years ago, it was intended for travel photography saving myself the hassle of struggling to change lenses when the travels and visits are fast paced. The choice of the SL1 was because of it's smaller size and lighter weight (short person with small hands). I still consider myself a beginner in photography besides travel, I've been doing photography on and off because: 1) It's only a hobby 2) Life happens, I get busy elsewhere and hobby has to be put aside 3). I'm still learning. For the moment, I'm satisfied with what I have and don't intend to upgrade in the upcoming future.

[@gel0088]

THANK YOU! I was going back and forth between so many videos to find a good all in one lense. I have a little one so carrying a million things is not an option for me since my little one runs around everywhere. This video was super helpful!

[@sabaof8]

The superzoom is invaluable with international air travel where carry-on weight limits are severe. It is a single, versatile lens instead of multiple lenses covering the same focal range but weighing considerably more.

[@PhotoTrekr]

I miss brick and mortar camera stores. They were not only convenient, they were a place were photographers gathered.

[@IvoTichelaar]

Panasonic 14-140mm for micro four thirds. Fantastic lens. I have so many quick and casual shots with that lens that turn out really great. Sharp, nice colours, range. It is really nice for macro with extension rings as well.

[@bernhardtsuballa5341]

Yess I agree. I combine it with Panasonic DMC-GF6 and get quite good sharp results. But since I am travelling a lot I only have 2 cams with me: Canon G5X and Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition. With these 2 tools I can catch the whole scene and atmosphere.

[@evertonporter7887]

I bought this lens on eBay from a seller in Japan, and it was worth the wait. It's perfect on my Panasonic GX80 and gives excellent pictures every time.

[@kot-duott]

I settled on 24-105 f/4 as the optimal compromise. It's bright enough with f/4 and can provide at least some bokeh, while I very rarely encounter situations where I have to go beyond 105mm (and when I do, cropping is usually enough).

[@aliendroneservices6621]

This lens travels with me everywhere.

[@benicetoyou]

The Olympus 12-100/4 is a great lens. It combines great optical quality with exceptional built quality and weather resistance, which is rare for a superzoom. Panasonic Lumix mFT: 14-140/3.5-5.6. No Superzoom for L-Mount (yet). You might also consider a Bridge for maximum Zoom range and convenience.

[@MrOsantosjr]

Great vid guys, but please note Rich no longer works at Milford Photo. He left in September, but Milford is definitely a great place to get gear and often they have things B&H and Adorama don’t have so I love purchasing from them!

[@bryant928]

the 18-300 is my typical carry around, I've gotten really good results. I typically will carry the sony 11mm as well for when i want the really wide. its such a small lens so its easy to carry. after that i may carry the sigma 30mm or 56mm is i think i will be in darker spaces a lot. but the super zoom lives on my camera. with it i never worry about having the wrong lens on because most of my stuff is going somewhere and not knowing what I will find that i want to photo.

[@rayspencer5025]

While not the sharpest of my lenses, I love my Tamron 18-400mm (to which I can add a doublet close-up like the Canon 250D). It greatly lightens my load when scouting a location. Another advantage is avoiding dust on in the camera & lens which is a big problem at times in Georgia. My typical light kit is Sigma 8-16mm, Tamron 18-400, and a Canon 250D close-up liens. As for the sharpness issue, a little extra post processing can even improve on that.

[@rogerbarnett8412]

I don't use my 18-400 much, but it has its place and is acceptably sharp.

[@lumixographer2185]

First: thanks for your support for local photo stores! Second: great to see super zoom lenses get the credit deserved for a lens that can always be on your camera when traveling (until you really need a specific purpose lens). My mini traveling kit is a Lumix G100 with 14-140mm [28-280mm ff). This featherweight combo fits in the palm of my hand!

[@geekinthegarden3927]

Similar here - I use a GH5 or GX80 with the 14-140mm give a versatile lightweight camera setup (especially the GX80). If I think I need to push in more I have the 100-300mm and if I really need to go wider then I have an adapted sigma 8-16mm on a 0.71 focal reducer giving me a 5.6-11.2mm ultrawide zoom but the majority of the time the 14-140 is on the camera. I may take the kit 12-32mm lens just because it is so small in comparison to the others and there's time when I want to be as discreet as possible and it hardly takes up any room or weight.

[@alejandromedina2349]

This got me back years ago when I was considering to get my first serious camera. I saw a video from Tony @ Chelsea that drove me into FUJI. Great recommendation! In that video they also recommended a super zoom, the 18 135 as a first lens. Not that great. I needed years of prime shooting to really get into zoom for good composition and control of the lens. The variable aperture drove me crazy so many times! My recommendation for a beginner> get a prime. If really into zoom, then use it as a set of fixed lenses: 18 35 50…avoid for a while the intermediate ones until you get it.

[@mmadmic]

When starting digital, I came from medium format and heavy bags was not a problem for me. But when I moved to Canon DSLR, I started with the 50mm f1:1.4, the 24-105 f1:4 L and the 300mm f:1:2.8L . Now, I moved to MFT and it's another world in terms for size and weight. When I, rarely, use my Canon camera, I have a Tamron 17-50 f:1:2.8 and a 70-300mm f/4-5.6 vc usd and It's amazing how it's light compare to my previous setup with results very similar. And cherry on the cake, I can use those lenses on my MFT with an EF-MFT AF adapter.

[@cysix4939]

My Sony 24-105 F4 sits on my A7R3 in the bag 100% of the time. It allows me to quickly pull out the camera and have the best chance of getting the shot no matter what. I'll switch to other lenses when time allows, but the wide focal range combined with image stablization and great sensor yields an acceptable shot most of the time. Thanks for recognizing that the world doesn't revolve around primes for those of us not selling our photos.

[@mariusm4623]

Agree. Same camera same lens. For most travel situations absolutely enough.

[@KoenLagae]

I agree too. The difference in width (28vs 24 mm) is important to me also in normal street shots. Rarely do I need to reach beyond 105mm.

[@AllgoodthingsTv]

Great vid as always. Loved the comparison to the smart phones images, which showed the superzooms deliver better quality.

[@AVerkhovsky]

Nice video, and I am completely for superzooms! Tamron 28-200 is my go-everywhere lens. However, unlike Tamron 18-300 for APS-C, it does not have a vibration control. This makes sense as 28-200 is a full frame lens, and almost all full frame Sony cameras have IBIS in the body.

[@garyelmenthaler1608]

Since I live in the Stone Age with a Nikon D850, I use a Nikon 28-300 for the majority of my work. It works well when traveling as well as when I just want to shoot local. Seriously, the D850 is all I need and is bombproof. Your review from a few years ago was right on the money.

[@chaslau2345]

Right on Gary

[@boostedmaniac]

The d850 is very nice. I just recently upgraded from a D800.

[@photonomist6345]

D850 still a true gem!!!

[@Bill-NM]

I once had that 28-300 and really enjoyed using it.

[@jmar482]

I recently bought the Tamron 18-400mm for my Canon and absolutely Love it. It's the only lens that Ive used over the last 4 months. I occasionally use it with a 2x teleconverter for some insane long range or Lunar photography. It's a little heavy but so much better than the kit 300mm I had been using.

[@Emptrix]

How's the quality of the lens? Can it compete with this 28-200mm?

[@jmar482]

@@Emptrix for me I find it to be a great lens, but then again I’m just a hobbyist. The quality of the glass is good and the images look sharp. As to comparing it to the 28-200mm, I can’t really comment as I’ve never used it.

[@ryujoshikunshiryu2059]

I see that I am in the minority. When I purchased a Sony a6000 the first thing that I did was buy the Sony 18-200. It is still on the camera and I still use the a6000 along with my arsenal of Olympus E-M10II cameras with wide to telephoto lens. I have enjoyed all of your videos. Thanks for being here and sharing your photography insights.

[@Dorax75]

I still love my Tamron 18-400 on Canon APS-C, not the sharpest, fastest, but it is always with me and my back and my neck won't be hurt. "One lens rule them all" 🙂 It has some weaknesses and also lot of strenghts but the main point is the flexibility. I took lot of landscapes, wildlife, bird pictures but the strongest is the "paparazzi" style photos of my family and friends. 400mm on APS-C is amazing.

[@peteturner3928]

Great lens, mine is nearly always on the camera when I'm travelling and up to about 250mm mine is tack sharp but softens slightly at the longer end (especially 400mm) but it's still more than usable.

[@mattfowlerkc]

I have the Panasonic 14-140 and that thing is practically glued to my camera. It’s my go to travel lens without a doubt.

[@actionphotopassion5082]

I really appreciated the video especially the fact that you didn't bias the comparisons. I will continue to keep away from those superzoom lenses for 2 main reasons: 1) Well if one would to use superzoom, then no need to buy an ILC as there are great superzoom point and shoot cameras out there 2) when I go on holidays I want to get great shots. So I prefer to use my best lenses to record those moments that can be one of a lifetime. Why having gear if it is not to use it anyway...

[@cameraprepper7938]

I agree ! I only use the best prime Lenses you can get.

[@Lizerator]

We use the Tamron 28-200 and 28-300 on our Sony full frames and find them sharp and easy to use. I do have shorter Sony lenses but don't use them very often.

[@3yp0n]

This was very informative and helpful! The comparison between kit lenses, smart phones, and prime lenses was a great addition. The one line where it was stated that it doesn't need to be the sharpest and it's not expected with these lenses was a wakeup call as I've been going down the rabbit hole of prime lenses. These were such a night and day different from kit and smart phones! Thank you for this!

[@boostedmaniac]

Zoom with your feet! Ever since I bought an 85 many years ago, I’ve fallen in love with primes, expanding my collection to 35 and 105. For most portrait work I bring a 35 and 85. It also forces me to think a little more rather than lazily zooming.

[@WanderWithAdnan]

how important is the body , APC vs full frame and full frame mirrorless - ? do you have a video on that ?

[@SpeedyMax-dr6zq]

Tony is the reason I started photography after his introduction of Sony a6000. Thank you Tony.

[@asghiasughiqughbqwg]

I picked up the 28-200 and it is excellent. I can see having it as my normal travel lens, maybe with one prime for fun.

[@toml7760]

I have been enjoying the Tamaron 18-300 for years. I use this lens on a Sony dslr,. Speaking of superzooms,I also use the Sigma 50-500. I have never been disappointed with the images from these lenses. Incidentally, these lenses, and two Sony dlsr cameras, were bought used years ago. Their is a lot to be said for used; as you have shown in a previous video.

[@toml7760]

@TonyChelseaNorthrup1 I am replying to your request for a reply. Would be happy to answer whatever inquiry you might have. I don't use any messaging platform other then e-mail.

[@henrikf.1247]

Once you bring it behind yourself and concede, that you're just a hobbyist photographer, life is becoming so much easier. Super zooms might not be in the competition with high end lens, but they're good for casual / everyday / vacation Photography. APS C is a good compromise for Image quality and portability as well. So I am so happy with the A6600, alongside with the Tamron 18-300 and the Sony 10-20 PZ for Ultrawide (IQ of the 18-300 is way better than the old superzooms, for example the 18-200 Sony IMHO). If it needs to be lighter, the Sony 18-135 is a good alternative for the 18-300 in my back pack as well.

[@SilentKnight43]

I've been using an 18-200mm Nikkor superzoom for years on my aging Nikon d80 and love it. Rarely take it off. I actually wore the rubber grip off it a few times and had to re-glue it since it gets so much use. I also do a lot of shooting with a Samsung S21 Ultra cell that I love. Best of both worlds. Nice review.

[@spydirhsd]

Running a 18-140 and a 55-300 and for years they've been the only two lenses I've needed for portraits and stock photos. Buddy of mine with 300 prime lenses he can't understand how I pull off great shots just by walking around with one lens.

[@jbehuniakjr]

THANK YOU!!! I've watched like 50 videos on super zoom lenses and DSLR vs iphone and nobody shows digital zoom on the iphone! Exactly what I've been trying to see

[@bunkermagnus]

I have one already and I love it for travelling. The Canon RF 24-240 the first superzoom I've been happy with.

[@ArtandSolProductions]

I have the same lens but I have noticed bad vignetting at wider focal lengths.

[@bunkermagnus]

@@ArtandSolProductions Yeah but all RF lenses seem to have some vignetting on the wider end, but I'd rather have vignetting than blurry corners. 👍

[@dr.alanmarcus4741]

I am a long time Sony user, I recently purchased the Sony A7RIV and the Tamron 18-300mm lens. I am extremely satisfied with the crop equivalent of 27-450 that this lens provides especially since the camera gives 26 mp with the crop. This combination of camera and lens provides a fantastic one lens travel camera kit that is relatively light. The full frame 61MP devotees (fanatics) really don’t understand the great flexibility and quality of this combo. Having owned the A7RII and since I have the A6000 and have used the RX10IV for along time, I find that the advanced features of the A7RIV and the overall sharpness of the 18-300mm really give you an opportunity to create great images and provide advantages over other camera & lens combinations during traveling.

[@JQ24]

I recently picked up the Tamron 50-400 for my Sony A7IV during a trip in Australia. That lens was very versatile and sharp! It was perfect for portraits in the city and capturing birds and other animals far off in the distance. I also turn on APSC mode if I need to extend the zoom a bit more.

[@johnwinter6061]

Ten years ago I bought Canon 600D (18MP APS-C) + Tamron 18-270. Didn't bother with any other lenses. Loved it. Went all over the world with it. Now I've got Canon RP (FF 26MP) + 24-240. That gives me better than what I had. I got to do some test shots before buying with both. A cropped image from the new set up at 240 (about 10MP) was better IQ than a full image at 270 (x 1.6) (18MP) from the old! Since then I've added a Canon R50 + 100-400. I can use the two lenses on either camera. But set up this way, it saves me having to swap lenses in bad environments and wasting time doing it.

[@Mme.Swisstella]

Is Tamron 18 270 good lens do you recommend it plz

[@johnwinter6061]

@@Mme.Swisstella It WAS a g Great lens for its time whenI bought it in 2012. I traded it in for $AUD100. So that tells you something versus what is now available. Of course that was APS-C. Tamron is. still a good zoom maker. However, my 24-240 cannon full frame is much better than that 2012 Tamron lens. I have no idea how current Cannon, Tamron and Sigma zooms compare.. With an R series body lens correction is done in the body for jpegs! ATM Cannon is not allowing third party R series lenses to be made. So having settled on an RP (and recently adding an R50). I didn’t have brand choice. Regardless the Cannon RF 24-240 is great and I have added a Cannon 100-400 to the R50. Much cheaper and more flexible than a full frame 600mm. Price v zoom v quality is fine for me for all 4 items - travel photography! Same battery for both bodies and both lenses can be used on both bodies. Btw I’ve found one major advantage of zooms. You can zoom in for focus and exposure on what part you want, hold the shutter half down to lock that in and then zoom out to take a wider view shot. No fiddling with focus and exposure settings!

[@Mme.Swisstella]

@@johnwinter6061 thankees reply !

[@sarajennfunvideos208]

I have the Tamron 17-28mm and 28-200mm and it really covers all bases. I keep wanting to upgrade to a Sony lense but those two lenses really do it all. The 17-28mm Tamron is such a workhorse.

[@jimhood1202]

Also great if you are just getting into photography. You can try all sorts of photography at lots of different focal lengths then, if you want to concentrate on a particular kind of photography you can invest in some better genre specific glass as someone who knows what they are looking for.

[@theothertonydutch]

I kinda disagree. When I started with photography I had an 18-300 and I really didn't start thinking about composing until I started using a 50mm. Limitation nurtures creativity.

[@samsargdong1135]

I was going to write something similar but you couldn' t explain it better!👌

[@sba7739]

When I bought my EOS 90D, I descided to spend ~200.- more to get the Tamron 18-400 instead of the Canon 18-135 kit lens. You definitely see that the quality is not perfect at 400mm, mainly for objects that are far away. My father, who had a 150-450mm for his Pentax DSLR was able to make much better telephotos with this lens, but because it was too heavy, he almost never took it out for a trip, but I was still able to take some photos. In the meantime, I also bought a Canon 10-18 mm for the wide angles and the Sigma 18-35 mm f/1.8, which I use when I take my time for specific landscape shot's or for star photography.

[@marysplace2070]

Love, love, love my Tamron 18-400 lens which I purchased in the spring. It is my go to lens for hiking and poking around.. so much flexibility and I have gotten very lovely photos out of it on my Nikon. Even of flying birds! Great lens for a great price. Some super good advice here! Thanks Tony & Chelsea for all your great videos. Truly helpful

[@SenseiFritz]

I'm "jealous"..... i'd wish such a lens for APSC on my Sony's e-mount. 👍🏻

[@BrentODell]

I used to have the 18-400 for my Nikon D500. It was a super versatile setup, for sure.

[@danbradley6696]

My lens as well, and agree with your comments.

[@lonnieclemens8028]

I enjoy listening to your videos and advice. I am not a professional photographer, so I am not as critical of lenses. But it is always wise to listen to the opinions of others.

[@SenseiFritz]

Yessssssssssssssssss............ at last a really fair video for superzooms!!!!!!!! We all know the weakness of (super)-zooms... they aren't the sharpest. But what do we want MORE? An extreme crop from a sharp prime lens with relatively short focal legth? Or NO crop from a not sooooooooooo sharp superzoom? Both definitely not the best solutions, but I'd prefer the 2nd choice. In my case: for long distances i still use my relatively unsharp 18-200 on my A6000. Not because it's great, but because it's better than the a crop of my Sigma 30mm f1.4 or my Tamron 17-70mm f2.8 when it's really far.

[@BalaKrishna-bq5iz]

Tamron 28-200 is my secret sauce. I am always baffled how this lens is little known to most ppl. It's a super zoom that's actually pretty sharp unlike the Sony and Canon equivalents that are far far inferior. And better yet, almost zero focus breathing in video. I never knew this would be the lens that spends the most time on my a7siii when I got it. It is very liberating to not constantly change the lenses.

[@darylnd]

I just bought one at my local camera store last Friday (Dec. 23). I wrung it out on Saturday while doing a bit of ham radio work at a local wildlife refuge. I pulled the pictures into my computer when I got home, checked them all, and edited a few of the best. I immediately registered the warranty online. It's heading off with me and the family to Grand Canyon next week. I love primes--I have a few, including the 20mm f1.8 and the 90mm Macro--but, as Tony said, when you're on vacation with the family, changing lenses is annoying.

[@BalaKrishna-bq5iz]

@@darylnd Hope you enjoy yours. This was my most used lens when I visited Arches and Canyonlands last year despite carrying 20, 35, 85 mm primes with me.

[@michaelt1103]

The Tamron 18-300mm is my go to for my a6700. I'll switch to my primes if I need ultra sharp or i'm in low light and I can't slow down my shutter speed, but otherwise it can handle pretty much anything. Great lens!

[@jasontelin1434]

I had a Nikon 18-300 for my d500 and it was my absolute favorite lens. So versatile and great for traveling.

[@aspfproductions]

Great advise, thanks. I love my Tamron 18-400 mm. Brought it to Yellowstone a couple months ago. Basically only used that lens on my Canon EOS R7.

[@rncondie]

We have several lens for our Nikon D500 and found we just use the Nikor 18-300 lens. If I want the background in focus with the person in the forefront I leave it on 18 mm stand back 9 ft from the person and the background is in focus. The versatility of having up to 300 mm is nice on vacations without the hassle of switching out lens and packing onto a plane.

[@paulc3508]

Do you have the 5.6 or 6.3 version?

[@Martin-nu6ym]

The Tamron 35-150 is my main lens for events. Paired with 16-35 GM. The Tamron 28-200 is my main lens for infrared. Paired with the Tamron 17-28. I do like superzooms. :)

[@ytr8989]

The Tamron 17-28 👍

[@jimhood1202]

Hey. Thanks for attaching the crop sensor equivalents. So many photography channels assume only full frame uses are watching.

[@markb3758]

I have a Nikon D850 with a 24-120 zoom. Not as much telephoto as the test lenses but a lot of versatility in a single lens. For vacation , it was great. From wonderful landscapes in Iceland to great photos of the family in a variety of lighting situations, it just worked.

[@neaorin]

The Tamron 28-200 is my holiday workhorse. On Sony full frame bodies, it strikes the best balance between zoom range, portability, image quality and price. I also tried the Tamron 35-150 and loved the image quality but it's just too heavy to lug around all day. This is supposed to be vacation after all.

[@blairwooten8019]

My favorite lens for my Canon 80D is a Tamron 16-300mm lens. One lens to take on trips, makes air travel less cluttered.

[@simmo303]

Ideally a panorama head on a tripod - that allows rotation about the nodal point. Expensive! so I made one. You can approximate it by hand. Good to see you had the camera vertical, many miss that technique.

[@NEILAMALONE]

I personally really like using superzooms. I have the Tamron 18-400mm that I until recently used with my Canon 1200d (the camera sadly recently died on me). My mostly used lens on my Sony A7iii is actually my Sony 24-240mm. Superzooms certainly have their place and are very useful for the likes of public events too.

[@SlayerzXtreme]

OMG! Chelsea looks gorgeous on any lens and on any camera, even on a camera from the 1920's! She is beyond gorgeous! 😍😍😍❤❤

[@cameraprepper7938]

You NEED strong glasses !!!

[@WaechterDerNacht]

I use alot of superzooms. When i bought my second hand D850 3 years ago, i started with the 24-70mm f2.8. But because i like wildlife photography, i bought a Sigma 60-600mm and is still the lens i use the most. It's not super sharp and very heavy, why i would go for a Tamron 150-600mm now instead of the 60-600mm. But this way, i can cover the range between 70-150mm aswell. Another superzoom i bought before i went ski touring in Lyngen (Norway) was the Nikon 28-300mm, because it's light-ish and i can use one single lens to take pictures of skiers and landscapes. It's way sharper than the sigma, but not even close to the sharpness of something like the 70-200mm f/2.8. But it's not the same purpose after all. I just needed a lens that i can take with me for a day of skiing and not get tired because i carry too much gear. When i recently got my first images printed to put on the wall of my appartment, i only printed pictures taken with those two lenses. I just simply choose those lenses more often to go out instead of 14-24mm or a 35mm f1.4. I guess it also comes down to the fact that seeing picture worthy things in landscapes etc. in the "tele-range" comes more natural to me than seeing options for good photos in the "wide angle range".

[@MrRolandMichel]

Been saying this for YEARS! I have a Sony 24-240mm on my Sony A-R3, works like a charm, perfect for travel, ready for any shot that crosses my path, with no fumbling for lenses and MOST importantly, ZERO chance of dust & moisture intrusion onto the sensor or into the body. I'll happily take that over the "benefits" of a Prime lens...

[@christianback4256]

Glad you added this topic, since reviews tend to focus on the latest, state-of-art, top-of-the-line equipment. I practice mostly nature photography and macro photography (which I post on iNaturalist). Up to a year ago, especially when traveling, I would use my DSLR (Canon 90D) with telezooms or macro lens, and switch to the cell phone for wide-angle situation shots. Then I bought the Tamron 18-400 mm superzoom: I suddenly was traveling light, and could take all kinds of shots (including good close-ups of insects and plants) on short notice and without changing lens. The joy of photography was back. The Tamron lens has its limitations: sub-par auto-focus , chromatic aberrations, small max aperture,... . However current software (Dxo Photolab in my case) allows to correct most imperfections, and noise reduction is so good that I frequently go up to 6,400 ISO. This type of lens is ideal for travel photography. It is too bad that Canon decided to bar this type of third-party lens for its line of mirrorless cameras with RF mount.

[@YkSapphie]

Very nice video. Very well understood the difference between kit n super zoom lenses in detail

[@darianrichardson3629]

The Tamron 28-200 for Sony is honestky already so amazing on my APSC sensor, can't wait to buy a full frame so i can enjoy the wide angle part as well and never have to switch lenses either

[@paulasimson4939]

I took my Fuji XT4 and the Tamron 18-300 to Europe this summer and it was a godsend. Low light performance is meh, but for 90% of the photos I was taking it worked perfectly. And not having to change lenses was so freeing.

[@HDTCOM]

Hi Tony and Chelsea. I have a Tamron 18-400 super zoom on my Canon APS-C DSLR and, while I do have better lenses, the Tamron keeps finding its way back onto my Camera. The quality is good and the convenience of having it all on one lens can't be beat.

[@gtaliano]

That's why my first Lens after the kit was a Canon EF-S 18-135 IS Nano USM... I wish this lens would have been available in the Kit in my country when I bought the camera. After That I added other more specific lenses.

[@johnwinter6061]

A great advantage of a zoom is you can zoom into the part of a photo you wish to take and fix focus and exposure by holding the shutter down half way. Then zoom out for the shot you want and complete it.

[@MohcineJabairi]

I use the same 28 - 200mm more than anything else, and since I've sold my prime to upgrade to the 85mm 1.8, I did portraits with my zoom at around 70mm and the photos were insanely sharp! Was not expecting it from this nice Tamron.

[@markgoostree6334]

I shoot a Nikon D-7200. I have a Nikon 18-140 that I use most of the time. For some reason I also have a Tamron 28 - 300 that gets a bit less use... not sure why I don't use it more. I learned about how versatile these are early on. I understand about prime lenses but these zoom lenses are nice to use.

[@anarchisttutor7423]

I recently took a trip around half the USA. At some point I switched from my 18-200mm zoom to my 10-18mm zoom as my walkabout lens. Why? I generally wanted to capture a scene, and I was typically going to "big" scenes: Arches NP, Niagara falls, Chicago. Most of what I was interested in was large and only the widest lens would do. I also did a little street photography without needing to be furtive. I could capture a person without pointing the lens at them. Now, if you want the highest-quality street photography images, it won't be for you, but for my purposes it was fine. It's usually harder to get far enough away from a large scene than it is to walk closer to a distant object, in my experience.

[@vernoncarlson6426]

I've been using a Tamron 18-400mm on a Nikon Zii and I use ON1 Photo Raw for processing. It's my everywhere camera & lens setup. All my other lenses are left at home. I love this setup and it gives me the photos I want to keep and share. I get amazingly sharp moon photos hand held. I mainly do bird photography and the photos are nice and sharp, any grain and On1 will take care of it.

[@glenndavies5766]

OK. You convinced me to give one a try. I have been shooting outdoor events with two cameras. A Sigma 17-50 is on one hip and a 50-150 on the other. I like having fast lenses but after a few hours my arms are shot. Thanks for the recommendations.

[@saipraveen1382]

This is simply perfect video am literally waiting for and i found out after a year, Thank you guys for sharing. Really helpful for someone like me who is struggling to find a go to lens 💯👌

[@davepov]

I always enjoy your videos...very informative. And I have to say, I'm blown away at the quality of your audio! Obviously you're using wireless lavs but still, the audio almost sounds studio quality. Bravo! Thanks for exploring this topic.

[@VictoriaKempPhotos]

I have a Sigma 18-250 that I bought years ago for weddings as a 2nd shooter. Sometimes I think it's ok, sometimes I think it's a tad soft and have sent it to Sigma a couple of times. I shoot a couple of Canon T6i's. Maybe there's a sweet spot I just can't find.

[@rogergregston6491]

I like this comparison, but the aging Sony RX10 Mark IV would still win this comparison (with it’s 24-600 Zeiss lens). It’s the most versatile camera ever. I really wish Sony would bring out the gen five, maybe with a curved sensor like Tony has mentioned before?? BTW, what about the Sony 24-240 E mount lens?

[@ZWARBHATTAA]

Yup i am waiting for Sony RX10V. Wishlist- 24-800 mm reach, 4k 60 fps, better low light performance, added stabilization, 30 megapixels. Now that might add more weight and money, but i would not mind. 🙂

[@kzbay1685]

Just bought my first non-kit lens 6 months ago. The Tamron18-400mm F3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD Model B028 - Nikon. I am not disappointed. I use it on my Nikon D5600.

[@Jones12ax7]

I just bought a nikon 28-300 3.5-5.6 VR for my used D610. I expect versatility and for when I need quality, low light or deep bokeh, a trio of 35, 50 and 85 F1.8 or 1.4

[@greasyflight6609]

Tony you take such nice pics of Chelsea...even in an instructional bit. I have followed you guys since I got into photography. Thank you for your entertaining and valuable content. From Canada

[@Magicairsoft9]

This video literally forced me to buy Tamron 18-400mm, I am very glad for it :-)

[@larsandreas2045]

I love my tamron 28-200mm, but note that it is NOT stabilized, contrary to “Because all these superzooms are stabilized …” [4:35] and “Tamron 28-200, also with vibration control” [8:01]

[@ddsdss256]

...or a bridge camera such as a Lumix FZ1000 or Sony RX10 iv. That way, you'll never miss a shot because you couldn't swap lenses fast enough and the IQ from either of those is more than adequate to produce nice, large prints (much better than the examples shown for a "$1,000 mirrorless" with a kit lens, and the FZ1000 is sub-$1,000) in the vast majority of situations. Pixel peeping is a pointless pursuit as most of the best photos in existence are neither tack-sharp nor high-res (there are limits as to what can be printed and more importantly, what can be discerned by the human eye/visual cortex). The main reason the FZ1000 isn't my primary camera is that I often need FLs outside of its 25-400mm EFL range (the RX10 iv covers 24-600). That's when I use my G9 and even better lenses (16-800 EFL, mostly covered by Leica glass, and as fast as f/0.95--Micro Four Thirds rules, especially for travel, but that's a separate conversation). Also, if you're a pixel peeper (again, why?), there is a bit of fall-off when you get much past a 4:1 or 5:1 zoom ratio (more of an issue the larger the format). All lenses are a compromise--lens design is very difficult and you can't get something for nothing, but for most people, most of the time, a super zoom is a reasonable option.

[@evertonporter7887]

I have a Tamron 16-300mm for my Nikon D7100 and it's my all in one lens if I'm on walkabout. I get excellent pictures all the time with this lens.

[@gavincorn4881]

Me and my friends in Australia call them 'walkabout lenses'. Hugely versatile and would be a much better option for a kit or starter lense. I know people will rubbish them but as you pointed out that's not what these lenses are for, they are all about range and convenience. Great review as always guys!

[@gavincorn4881]

@tonyandchelsea looks to be a scammer pretending to be you in the reply above...

[@dimitrimoonlight]

I'm a Panasonic user. I use 14-140 f3.5-5.6 lens that is so versatile.

[@chrislucibello8067]

Love that you mentioned Milford Camera Shop...Best camera shop in CT.

[@cikenot90]

I used to own Nikon 18-300mm (Dx version) and I don't really like the image quality coming from that lens, the chromatic aberration is slightly more prominent during editing. Since then I would prefer to use telephoto lens for long distance and smartphone for standard angle. That bad experience made me skeptical about superzoom, but I have to say recent superzoom lens had improved so much. I don't think I'll ever use a superzoom again, but if any beginners ask me, I may suggest them to try superzoom first.

[@alanpreston2129]

How about Tamron 16-300? Not sure if exists for Sony (maybe planned?), but I use it for Nikon APS-C DSLR, and with 24 mm equivalent at the wide end makes it the only lens I need for cycling (in my handlebar bag), mountain climbing - wherever changing lenses is troublesome if not impossible.

[@jamesglatzhofer486]

I use a Tamron 16-300mm on my Sony A77II A-mount. I absolutely need the wide angle 24mm equivalent for many of my travel pictures. The f-stop speed of superzoom is usually reasonable at the widest angle. Another thing to note about superzooms is - if you can back off on the full telephoto end a bit - say 200mm instead of 300mm - you will usually get more resolution and you might get an extra 1/2 stop of light, which helps too.

[@davidtorrance5814]

Great video . . I just picked up a Tamron 18-400 super zoom for my Canon 90D. We also have a 70-200 2.8 lense. Going to compare both while shooting wildlife.

[@boredgrass]

❤Supporting local small business. Always thinking about the people❤️

[@MarcoACasco]

Totally agree with you !!!! I always carry with me a Nikon D5600 with a Nikon 18-300 mm lens !!!! Beautiful combination !!!! Great camera body and lens !!!! Thanks for the video !!!!

[@GlennKachkowski]

Love your reviews. Question: I have a Sony a6300 which oddly is not listed under your recommended lens Tamron 18-300 for Sony APS-C cameras. Is there anything special that the a6300 wasn't listed?