Tamron 17-50 f/2.8

[DTNS]

to the photog experts out there,

Is this an okay alternative to the Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8? the Nikon 17-55 is my dream lens, but I can't justify shelling out 60+k on a lens. the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 costs about 16-20k or a third of the cost of a Nikon 17-55mm.  what do you guys think? 

[Coffee]

Hi bro. I'm no expert but just a fellow enthusiast.

Build quality (M1A1 Abrams), contrast, fast AF, bokeh quality goes to the Nikkor 17-55 2.8. If you're working rugged professionally, you'd likely favor these qualities because you'd be confident that the lens can withstand the accidental bangs and dings. Who doesn't wanna have the tank?

The Tammy gives nearly the same image quality for a lesser price, lighter weight, pleasant warm tone, and it's probably sharper than the Nikkor when we talk about center to corner sharpness. The sweet spot seems to be at f4 where corner to center sharpness is veeery sweet. In dimly lit situations, sometimes the auto focus will hunt.

I'm still conflicted about weather to get the VC or non VC version. I read the non-VC version has some batches suffering quality control issues so test accordingly before walking out of the shop. Check for back focusing issues.

If tests reveal you have a good unit, then I say "Go Foh It Man". This lens shines even better with a D7000 where good glass makes the resolution possible with the D7000 sensor really come out. Shoot at 2.8 confidently while using ISO 2800 or 3200 in dimly lit situations and you can still attain hand holdable speeds while getting very little noise in images.  I think Brent would agree. 

[Brent]

If you're not shooting professionally, the 17-50 will do. Get the Tamron, you won't regret it. You've seen some of my sample shots here on some of the threads.

For my personal professional work the 17-55 is still my go-to lens, mainly because of reliability and workflow. Worst pair with the 17-50 was the D300, because it was inherently warmer. With the D7000 nga almost perfect pair. Maybe because of better in-camera processing.

[R-A-Y]

I would go for this lens myself. the Puto Bumbong Shot was shot using this lens

Shucks so much good stuff I am hearing about this D7000 that I'm starting to consider getting it na ah....