thg3 Loc: La Quinta, California

A few days ago Caranx wrote:
I've been trying to figure this one out but I can't come up with a solution. I searched the FAQ section but didnt find any related info. If I missed it, please point me in the right direction.
Here's the problem : Both of these images of a picture frame with a canvas mat were taken on a Nikon D200, tripod mounted. The only thing changed was the lens. A Tamron 18-270 3.5-6.3 Di ll VC was used at 270mm for Image A and a Nikon AF-S 55-200 1:4-5.6 G ED VR (kit lens) was used at 200mm for Image B. Why then, do I get a closer view with the Nikon? I would think the Tamron would give me the more magnified image since it has "70mm more reach"...but apparently it's not so. Can someone on the forum help explain this? Thanks in advance

Over the weekend, I asked Tamron for an explanation and received a reply this morning. I posted it on the end of the original post. Here is a link to the thread and the answer...

http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-39665-6.html

ecobin Loc: Paoli, PA

This is really interesting - I read the response by Tamron which in summary indicates that when focused at infinity the higher focal length lens will provide the greater magnification but not necessarily at distances less than infinity. And this depends on the focusing mechanisms of the lenses being compared. I have a 28-200mm Tamron film camer lens and several Nikon lens that overlap - I'll do similar checking. Thanks for the information.

bkyser Loc: Fly over country in Indiana

so much for standardization in the industry.

focal length should be focal length

Wonder if any manufacturers play around with apiture. That would mess you up quickly if you use a handheld meter.

jeep_daddy Loc: Prescott AZ

Sounds like double speak to me. I wonder how many Tamron lenses are like this (or other 3rd party lenses). It is not OK for a company to make a consumer believe that the focal length is 270mm zoomed when it doesn't come close to that in comparison to an OEM Nikon 200mm zoom lens.

Sorry but I've never had much confidence in Tamron and now I have even less confidence.