Getting a new lens is like getting a new camera without the hassle of learning how to use a new camera. Sure you have to learn how to take advantage of your new glass, but it’s always a labor of love and not necessity. I found a great deal on this lens on eBay last week and I’m happy to report that it is flawless! It’s the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 VC.

Like any new lens owner, I immediately put it on my camera and started pointing it at anything and everything. How does it look wide open, is the Bokeh nice and smooth? How’s the barrel distortion at 17mm? How fast does it focus compared to my other similar zoom lenses? How sharp it it at f/2.8? After I addressed the geekiest of geeky questions that have been rattling around my head since I won the auction, the artist in me told me to point it at something meaningful. Luckily, my family was home!

My daughter was in the fridge looking for a drink. “Hey Mac, turn around quick and smile!”

Mac

My son was at the computer playing video games. “Kegan stop for one second and look over here!”

Kegan

And then there is poor Amy, who’s been laid up sick for the better part of this week, sitting out on the back porch while the dogs were outside. I think she was too tired to resist my demands, and actually looked genuinely happy to pose for a picture. That’s saying something when you are constantly being bombarded by a guy with his cameras. She’s so pretty.

Amy

So this leads to the current question on my mind: Is the only way to get a photographer’s family to smile on demand to purchase a new piece of equipment? I’m kidding, of course. I am very happy that they helped me with my impromptu experiment with my new glass.

So far I haven’t shot much else with it, but as far as I can tell, it is a real winner. I really wish I had it when I shot my first wedding a couple of weeks ago, as it would have been perfect for that. Actually, the need for a fast zoom was what inspired me to investigate the options out there and eventually find this particular lens up for auction. It was a demo unit from a camera store, and came with all of the original packaging and arrived in mint condition. The seller even threw in a Sigma UV filter! I will share more about it in the future.