The Tamron SP 85mm F/1.8 is the world’s first* 85mm fast-aperture lens with image stabilisation. Its unique design allows us to include our VC (Vibration Compensation) system – without the lens becoming too large or heavy. What’s more, our SP 85mm f/1.8 delivers edge-to-edge viewfinder brightness for ease of composition and superior low-light performance. The fast aperture of the f/1.8 also offers the perfect balance of subject sharpness and bokeh, that dreamy blur which separates your portrait subject from the background.

* Among 85mm F/1.8 interchangeable lenses for full-frame DSLR cameras as of January 2016. Data source: Tamron

Sharper images. Better bokeh.
To meet and surpass the needs of modern cameras with high resolution and high pixel densities, the SP 85mm F/1.8 employs LD and XLD low dispersion glass elements to correct critical aberrations. Superb optical design makes colour fringing inconspicuous, achieving sharp and clear image quality and enabling outstanding performance at any illumination level. eBAND and BBAR coatings work in concert with wide-ranging anti-reflection techniques to increase light transmission, reduce flare and ghosting, and to prevent reflections inside the lens barrel.

The SP 85mm F/1.8 is designed to provide tack-sharpness of the subject for stunning clarity and flawless image quality. At the same time, Tamron’s design philosophy embraces the notion that photographers – particularly portrait photographers – use background blur, bokeh , as a creative element to concentrate emphasis on the subject. Through numerous simulations conducted for wide-ranging blur effects, such as a gentle, melting transition from the focused to the out-of-focus areas, Tamron has created a soft and natural blur effect that achieves perfect harmony with the inescapable sharpness.

Hold steady with Vibration Compensation
The SP 85mm F/1.8 is the world’s first* lens with a fixed focal length of 85mm and a fast aperture of f/1.8 that’s equipped with the VC system. Camera movement – often too minute to be perceptible to the photographer – is the leading cause of unsharp photographs, especially in newer DSLR cameras with higher pixel densities and finer image resolution.

VC technology makes it possible to take photographs handheld in dim light and to make optimal use of slower shutter speeds and increased depth of field without extreme increase of the camera’s sensor sensitivity (ISO equivalent). This is especially important in portraiture because lighting is often low and the photographer needs the spontaneity of not using a tripod or disruptive flash units.

* Among 85mm F/1.8 interchangeable lenses for full-frame DSLR cameras as of January 2016. Data source: Tamron

Resists Moisture, Repels Smudges
Moisture-Resistant Construction, including special seals at areas of possible ingress, provides added protection. A highly durable Fluorine Coating, applied to the surface of the top element, prevents condensation and repels smudges, grime and fingerprints.

Expand Your Options with TAP-in Console
The future is here. Now you can update firmware, customise autofocus positions and adjust the mechanical setup and preferences of the SP 85mm F/1.8 by simply attaching it to the TAMRON TAP-in Console and connecting it via USB to a personal computer.

Smart design. Inside and out.
The superior technology inside the Tamron SP 85mm F/1.8 is matched by advanced external ergonomic features under a design philosophy called “Human Touch.” Improvements include altering the geometric shape and resistance of the AF/MF and VC switches to deliver comfort with secured operational feedback, and enlarging the distance scale window to maximise visibility and legibility.

Even the font style has been newly developed to enhance legibility as part of the overall product design.

The SP Series Prime Lens Lineup
The SP series lenses – 35mm, 45mm, 90mm Macro and 85mm – are built to achieve optimal performance, including functionality, handling and physical design. All deliver maximal sharpness, clarity and optical fidelity and are compatible with both full-frame and APS-C type DSLRs.

Every SP lens features VC to combat camera shake.

* The Sony mount does not include VC, as Sony digital SLR bodies include image stabilisation functionality. The Sony lens is designated as “SP 90mm F/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 USD”.
** The diaphragm retains a nearly circular shape at aperture settings down to f/5.6.

Model no. F016
Focal length 85mm
Maximum aperture f/1.8
Angle of view (diagonal) 28° 33′ (with full-size SLR cameras)
18° 39′ (with APS-C sized sensor digital SLR cameras)
Lens construction 13 elements in 9 groups
Minimum focus distance 0.8m (31.5 in.)
Maximum magnification ratio 1:1
Filter size 67mm
Length* 91.3mm (3.6 in.) Canon
88.8mm (3.5 in.) Nikon
Maximum diameter 84.8mm
Weight 700g (24.7 oz) Canon
660g (23.3 oz) Nikon (19.4 oz)
Diaphragm blades 9 (circular diaphragm)**
Minimum aperture f/16
Stabilisation performance 3.5 stops (CIPA Standards Compliant)
For Canon: EOS 5D Mark III is used
For Nikon: D810 is used
Standard accessory Lens hood, lens caps
Mounts available Canon, Nikon, Sony***
Specifications, appearance, functionality, etc. may be changed without prior notice.

* Length is the distance between the mount face and the tip of the lens.
** This rounded diaphragm retains a nearly circular shape even when taken two stops down from its fully open state.
*** The Sony mount does not include VC, as Sony DSLR bodies include image stabilisation functionality.