Tokina AT-X 280 AF PRO 28-80mm f2.8 Lens

Information from the THK site, review from Rusty Dodson

Mount availability: Canon EOS, Minolta AF, Nikon-D, Pentax AF
Focal length: 28mm ~ 80mm
Maximum aperture: f/2.8
Minimum aperture: f/22
Optical construction: 16 elements in 12 groups
SD glass: One element
Aspherical Elements: Two
Coatings: Multi-layer
Angle of view: 75° 20’ to 30°20’
Minimum focus distance: 1.6 ft. (0.5m)
Reproduction ratio: 1:5
Focusing system:

Internal focusing system
Zooming system: Rotary type
Number of diaphragm blades: 9
Filter size: 77mm
Maximum outer diameter: 84mm (3.3")
Overall length: 120mm (4.5")
Weight: 819g (28.6oz)
Accessories, included: Dedicated lens hood, fitted soft case
Lens Hood BH773
Warranty: 3 years

I purchased this lens mostly for indoor fashion work due to it's fast aperture, professional appearance and useful zoom range.

The first thing one will notice about this lens is that it looks and is built like a professional quality lens second, the auto focus is very quick and very quiet. This is easily the best auto focus performance I've experienced in a non-hsm/af-s type lens. Unfortunately the sharpness left something to be desired when shot wide open, a requirement for indoor fashion. The lens just didn't have that "wow" factor when the images were viewed at maximum resolution. The images just seemed a tad flat.

Perhaps on a sturdy tripod with perfect lighting one can get acceptable images, or if they only use it for web use and small print. But for my professional purposes it just didn't cut it. On a side note, I bought it used and sold it for more than I paid. The lens does hold it's value quite well. Perhaps other photographers don't share my opinion.