Tamron puts the macro designation on all lenses that have a maximum close-up capability of 1:4 (0.25x) or larger, regardless of the lens type. However, there is a difference between a macro lens and a zoom lens in the image quality for close-up photography. In designing a macro lens, the emphasis is put on image quality and performance to provide a high image quality and an attractive out-of-focus background effect in close-up photography, while maintaining sufficient performance in general photography for portraiture or scenery. On the other hand, in designing a zoom lens with a macro feature, emphasis is put on high image quality in general photography while equipping the lens with a convenient close-up capability.