Newer Tamron lenses and VNDs

[fruska]

I've been trying to choose a full-frame wide angle lens for my A7III, primarily shooting real-estate/architecture for business, and I've been saving up for a G-Master 16-35mm f/2.8, but I've also been looking at the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8, which has a WAY better price point and is still full-frame glass. What are your opinions of the Tamron? Should I save up for the G-Master lens or go with the one I can afford right now (not saying I won't pick up the more expensive one over time)
From everything I've been reading, it seems like Tamron has been known in the past for cheap lenses with quality to match, but that recently they've really upped the quality of their lenses without sacrificing the price.

Secondarily, I've had my eyes on the PolarPro Peter Mckinnon VND filters, but again, they're pricey. Everybody I've talked to says they're worth it, but I'd like some suggestions of other VNDs that are less expensive, but comparable in quality (if they exist). What are your favorites?

 

[DonS]

I have never heard of anyone using them, except Peter McKinnon. Variable NDs are harder to do, cheap ones tend to not work the full range they are supposed to and if you go too far you get an X across the image. I have a NISI that was not that expensive, but I do not recall the price.

 

[Phill104]

VNDs are great for video, not so good for stills though IMO. I totally agree with DonS on that front. For stills only a couple of fixed ND filters are really needed. I know plenty of landscape togs who carry a 10stop, a 6stop and a three stop and that is it. They tend to also carry a polariser which gives about a stop. All the bits in between really are not needed for stills these days, at least that is my opinion. In the days of slide film when you needed to get exposure spot on then they were essential, but with the latitude your camera has far less so.

 

[fruska]

Thanks for the responses, maybe I'll consider some of the fixed filters. I've been doing some reading and it seems like they're less limited in terms of lens diameter as well. Anybody have thoughts on the Tamron lenses?

 

[DonS]

I do not know about that specific lens, but in general Tamron lenses are decent. There are a few reviews out there for that.