50-300mm: Versatility and Performance

To celebrate the launch of the new 50-300mm lens, renowned photographer Yosuke Kashiwakura had the opportunity to explore the remarkable versatility and ease of use of this exceptional telephoto lens. During his journey through Iriomote, Japan’s own ‘Little Amazon,’ Yosuke uncovered the lens’s incredible potential, discovering its agility, high performance, and the unexpected allure of macro photography.

As a nature photographer, I specialize in capturing landscapes, wildlife, and natural elements. Travel is essential to my work, so I’m always mindful of the gear I bring, especially when it comes to heavy telephoto lenses. I often debate whether to pack them at all, as my goal is to travel light without compromising the quality of my images. However, the TAMRON 50-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD (Model A069) completely changed my outlook. Its lightweight design and impressive focal length range—from 50mm to 300mm—immediately caught my attention before I set off for Iriomote. This lens also boasts a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2, comparable to a macro lens, showcasing its versatility. Let me take you through the full range of capabilities this lens offers.

Here’s a shot I took of a stunning tropical hibiscus flower. Initially, I intended to photograph the entire bloom, but I was amazed by how close I could get—so close, in fact, that you can clearly see the intricate details of the pistil. With a minimum focusing distance of just 22cm at 50mm, this lens allows for remarkable proximity. I was also impressed by the soft bokeh that blurred the petals into the lush green backdrop.

This next photo features the Great Glider butterfly (Idea leuconoe), one of the largest butterflies in Japan, captured using the 300mm focal length. I got so close that I was almost worried the lens would touch it! The lens’s resolution was astonishing, capturing even the microscopic scales on the butterfly’s wings with stunning clarity.

While trekking through the forest, I encountered a water buffalo. To avoid startling it, I used the camera’s silent mode. The ultra-fast autofocus locked onto the buffalo’s eyes with precision, even in dim light. The Vibration Compensation (VC) system was particularly helpful at 300mm, enabling sharp, clear images in challenging conditions.

One of Iriomote’s standout features is the formation of reflective puddles during low tide, creating a stunning backdrop for photography. In the mangrove-dotted landscape, I used the lens at the 50mm standard focal length to capture the scene as naturally as possible. At 50mm, the angle of view closely mirrors human vision, providing an authentic sense of presence. I also experimented with the full focal range—from 50mm to 300mm—allowing me to document the island’s diverse scenes from multiple perspectives.

I was particularly enchanted by the water droplets collecting on the hydrophobic leaves of the island’s dense vegetation. The droplets sparkled like tiny jewels, and with the ISO set to 800, I was able to capture a noise-free, softly lit image. Even at a slow shutter speed of 1/8 second, the lens maintained sharpness and clarity, allowing me to explore the intricate world of macro photography without any motion blur.

Later, I ventured upstream on the Urauchi River, the longest river in Okinawa. The jungle-lined riverbanks provided endless opportunities for creative compositions from the moving boat. The 50-300mm zoom range was invaluable here, offering me the flexibility to adapt to different scenes without ever needing to switch lenses.

The rare Ainslie macroclinidioides var. okinawensis flower blooms south of the Tokara Islands. I was captivated by the water droplets resting on the petals, and as I moved closer to the flower, the circular bokeh expanded, creating a beautifully balanced shot that highlights both the delicate petals and the dreamlike bokeh effect in the background.

During my jungle trek, I also photographed this towering tree with its intricate buttress roots. The lens effortlessly captured the rain-soaked bark and vibrant moss with remarkable detail. Even in the deep shadows of the jungle, the image quality remained consistently high, with no corner blurring, thanks to the large aperture I used. The VC system ensured I could capture this challenging scene with absolute precision.

One of Iriomote’s unique natural wonders is its towering tree ferns. Their immense size and spreading fronds create a stunning canopy. To ensure sharpness throughout the entire frame, I set the aperture to F8. The result was a breathtakingly detailed image, with every leaf and branch rendered in crystal-clear resolution.

After my time using the TAMRON 50-300mm F/4.5-6.3 VC (Model A069) on Iriomote Island, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for its remarkable versatility. With just one lens, I was able to capture scenes I never thought possible. The exceptional resolution and beautiful bokeh across the entire focal range—from wide-angle to telephoto—allowed me to explore a vast array of subjects with ease. Its proxy-photography capabilities brought me closer to nature than ever before. Combine that with its lightweight, compact design, and this lens has become an indispensable part of my kit for future adventures.