Using the best Nikon lenses for landscape photography helps you capture broad, sweeping vistas in all their glory. But what makes the perfect landscape lens? They need to offer sharpness, a wide field of view, and a durable design to withstand outdoor conditions.
Our guide highlights the 11 best Nikon lenses for landscape photography, ensuring you find the perfect match for your scenic shots.
Our top pick is the Nikon Z 24mm f/1.8 S, as it delivers edge-to-edge clarity. The Nikon AF-S 24mm f/1.8G ED is lightweight and precise, making it our top choice for F-mount lenses. With nine more Z and F-mount lenses to choose from, you’re sure to find your ideal landscape photography lens.
What Is the Best Nikon Z Lens for Landscape Photography?
Selecting the best Nikon Z lens for landscape photography involves prioritizing sharpness, wide angles, and minimal distortion. Our curated list features lenses that excel in capturing vast, detailed scenes with true-to-life details and colors. These are the best landscape lenses for your Nikon mirrorless camera.
- Wide 24mm focal length for vast landscapes
- Bright f/1.8 aperture for low-light scenes
- Compact, weather-sealed for outdoor durability
- Exceptional sharpness, minimal aberrations
- Fast, accurate autofocus with manual override
- Versatile 28mm angle for diverse compositions
- Bright f/2.8 aperture enhances low-light shots
- Lightweight build for easy travel, handling
- Quick, silent autofocus perfect for video
- Sharp images with minimal chromatic aberration
- Ultra-wide to wide 14-24mm zoom range
- Constant f/2.8 for consistent low-light performance
- Professional-grade optics with minimal distortion
- Durable, weather-sealed for harsh conditions
- Quick, silent autofocus with manual precision
- Flexible 12-28mm zoom for varied shooting scenarios
- Power zoom feature ideal for smooth videography
- Vibration Reduction for sharp handheld shots
- Lightweight design, great for travel photography
- Close focusing ability for detailed foregrounds
- Versatile 35mm for street and landscape shots
- Large f/1.8 aperture for bokeh effect
- Robust build with weather sealing protection
- Superior sharpness with minimal distortion
- Fast, silent autofocus with manual override
- Wide 16mm focal length for expansive views
- Fast f/1.4 aperture for low-light excellence
- Compact design, ideal for travel photography
- Dust- and splash-resistant for outdoor reliability
- Crisp image quality with minimal aberration
Our Favorite Nikon Z Lenses for Landscape Photography
Let’s take a closer look at our favorite Nikon Z lenses, each offering unique features to suit the diverse needs of landscape photographers. From wide-angle primes to versatile zooms, this selection promises to enhance your scenic captures with remarkable clarity and precision.
1. Nikon Z 24mm f/1.8 S
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
450 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
24 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
 |
The Nikon Z 24mm f/1.8 S is the best Nikon Z lens for landscape photography. Its wide-angle view captures expansive scenes with ease. The lens’s sharpness is impressive, delivering crisp details from edge to edge. The build is robust and the price tag is relatively affordable.
Distortion can be a problem with wide-angle lenses. But that’s barely an issue with this lens, thanks to the quality of the glass elements inside. The outer elements also have an anti-glare coating, improving image clarity and light transmission.
Its anti-reflective coatings improve contrast and reduce glare, which is important when shooting in bright outdoor conditions. The lens is also light, making it a good option for photographers who hike to remote locations.
A fast f/1.8 max aperture is always handy. You won’t need an aperture that wide when shooting landscapes in the day. But it’s helpful if you’re shooting into the evening or shooting nightscapes. It also adds to the overall versatility of the lens.
A custom control ring allows you to change the aperture, ISO, or shutter speed manually. And it has a 72mm filter thread, so you can use polarizing or neutral density filters to improve your landscapes.
Compared to the Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8, the 24mm f/1.8 S is slightly wider and better at low light due to its larger aperture. However, both lenses offer excellent sharpness and minimal distortion.
The Nikon Z 24mm f/1.8 S is the perfect place to start if you want a lens for landscape photography. It’s dust and splash-resistant, so you can happily use it outdoors. And it’s an easy fit for any hiking camera backpack.
2. Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
160 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
28 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 is a light and compact prime lens, ideal for scenic treks into the wild to capture stunning landscapes. Its wide-angle view is perfect for framing vast scenes. It’s an affordable option, making it a good choice for beginners.
The lens maintains sharpness throughout, which is critical for detailing every part of the image. With minimal distortion, it keeps lines straight, preserving the natural beauty of architectural elements in the landscape.
This lens’s anti-reflective coatings are key for reducing glare, ensuring that images are clear even when shooting in bright conditions.
While it lacks weather sealing, its optical performance in controlling chromatic aberration and distortion makes it a good option for landscape photography.
Compared to the Nikon Z 24mm f/1.8 S, the 28mm f/2.8 is not as wide and has a smaller aperture. However, its lighter weight and simple design might appeal to those who prioritize portability and ease of use.
3. Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
650 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
14-24 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S is a versatile zoom lens, perfect for capturing landscapes with its ultra-wide field of view.
Its constant f/2.8 aperture allows for consistent exposure and is useful in low light. The lens is sharp across the frame, which is a must for landscape photographers who need to capture every detail of a scene. It also handles distortion well, keeping lines straight and true to life.
This lens is heavier than the previous prime lenses but offers the flexibility of a zoom, allowing you to change the composition without moving the camera.
It’s built tough with weather sealing, making it a reliable outdoor companion. The ability to use filters (112 mm) is a big advantage for managing exposure and enhancing skies. It also has a custom control ring for hands-on settings control.
In comparison to the Nikon Z 24mm f/1.8 S, the 14-24mm f/2.8 S offers a wider angle and zoom capability, making it more flexible for landscape photography. However, it is heavier and larger, which might be a consideration for those who prefer a lighter bag.
4. Nikon DX Z 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
205 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 5.6
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
12-28 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
 |
The Nikon DX Z 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR is a versatile zoom you can use for landscape photography. It’s a DX-format lens, meaning it’s compatible with Nikon APS-C mirrorless cameras. And it’s also affordable, so you can shoot beautiful natural scenes without stretching your budget.
Its focal length is ideal for capturing sweeping vistas. And the zoom range helps you find the perfect composition in any environment. The lens is sharp, ensuring that landscape images are crisp from center to edge. It also manages distortion well, which is important for keeping lines and colors looking natural.
It doesn’t have the best low-light performance. The maximum aperture is f/3.5 at the wide end and just f/5.6 when fully zoomed in. This isn’t too much of a concern when shooting landscapes, as you’ll be using narrower apertures for a deeper depth of field. But it does have a Vibration Reduction (VR) system, which helps when shooting from hand.
Weighing just 205 grams, this lens is a good fit for photographers on the move. Compared to prime lenses, this zoom offers more framing flexibility. However, its plastic build may not feel as robust as some of the heavier, pro-grade alternatives.
The Nikon DX Z 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR is the best zoom lens for beginners. It’s lightweight, versatile, and affordable, making it a great option for new landscape photographers.
5. Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
370 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
35 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S is a brilliant prime lens that’s sharp, versatile, and reasonably priced. You can use it for anything from portraits to street photography. But the 35mm focal length is wide enough and the image quality sharp enough for high-level landscape photography.
Its 35mm focal length captures broad scenes, yet it avoids the distortion often found in wider lenses. This lens is sharp from center to corners, ensuring that every part of the landscape is rendered in perfect detail. It also features coatings that reduce glare, which is crucial for shooting under bright skies.
Despite its larger aperture, the lens’s light weight makes it easy to carry on long hikes. The ability to attach filters directly is beneficial for managing light and enhancing colors. You can use 62 mm circular filters.
When compared to zoom lenses, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S offers superior sharpness in a lighter package. However, it lacks the flexibility of an adjustable focal length. Its weather sealing is an added bonus, providing peace of mind when shooting outdoors.
6. Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN | C for Nikon Z
| Brand |
Brand
Sigma
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
420 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.4
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
16 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN | C for Nikon Z is a prime lens that offers a super-wide 16mm focal length. That gives you a near-panoramic view for breathtaking landscape images.
Its large f/1.4 aperture excels in low light and allows for a shallow depth of field when needed. For landscapes, the ability to stop down and achieve edge-to-edge sharpness is more relevant, and this lens delivers on that front.
The lens’s anti-reflective coatings are effective in reducing glare, ensuring clear images even when shooting towards the light. It also handles distortion well, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of natural and architectural lines in landscape images.
While the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 does not have image stabilization, its wide aperture and compatibility with Nikon’s IBIS-equipped cameras help to mitigate camera shake. Its minimum focusing distance allows for creative compositions, including foreground interest with expansive backgrounds.
Overall, the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN | C is a good option for landscape photographers looking for a high-quality, wide-angle prime lens.
What is the Best Nikon F Lens for Landscape Photography?
Our focus shifts to the best Nikon F lenses for landscape photography. These lenses are chosen for their sharpness, wide apertures, and ability to capture vast, detailed scenes. They offer the robust build and optical excellence vital for outdoor shooting.
- Ultra-wide 24mm focal length
- Fast f/1.8 aperture
- Superior low-light performance
- Compact, lightweight design
- Weather-sealed construction
- Versatile ultra-wide zoom range
- Constant f/2.8 aperture for consistent exposure
- Professional-grade build with weather sealing
- Exceptional sharpness and optical quality
- Fast, silent autofocus with SWM technology
- Ideal "normal" lens for versatile shooting
- Bright f/1.8 aperture for depth of field
- Lightweight and portable for everyday use
- Sharp images with minimal aberration
- Durable build with weather-sealed mount
- Exceptional f/1.4 aperture for low light
- Premium optical quality with ED glass
- Professional-grade, durable construction
- Minimal distortion and chromatic aberration
- Smooth bokeh with nine-blade diaphragm
- Large f/1.4 aperture for stunning bokeh
- Hyper Sonic Motor for swift autofocus
- Compact design, perfect for travel
- Aspherical element reduces optical aberrations
- Excellent value for APS-C photographers
Our Favorite Nikon F Lenses for Landscape Photography
Let’s take a closer look at our favorite Nikon F lenses for landscape photography. From the expansive view of the ultra-wide zoom to the natural perspective of a versatile prime, these lenses promise sharpness and clarity for every scene. With options for low light and lightweight travel, there’s a lens here for any landscape photographer.
1. Nikon AF-S 24mm f/1.8G ED
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
355 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
24 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon AF-S 24mm f/1.8G ED is the best lens for landscape photography if you have a Nikon DSLR camera. Its 24mm focal length captures expansive scenes with minimal distortion. The lens’s two extra-low dispersion elements and two aspherical elements work together to reduce chromatic aberration, ensuring clear images.
You won’t need the f/1.8 max aperture when shooting landscapes. But it’s a handy feature if you’re working in low light. And it adds to the lens’s versatility. It also helps to compensate for the lack of image stabilization.
A 72 mm filter thread means you can use circular filters, helping to expand your creative skills in landscape photography.
Weighing 355 g, this lens is easy to carry on long photography expeditions. Its weather sealing is a bonus, offering protection against the elements.
Compared to the Nikon AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G ED, the 24mm f/1.8G is lighter and more compact, making it a good option for photographers who prioritize portability. While the 14-24mm f/2.8 offers zoom flexibility, the 24mm f/1.8G has an edge in weight, simplicity, and sharpness. It’s an incredible DSLR prime lens for landscape photographers.
2. Nikon AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G ED
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
970 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
14-24 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G ED is a robust zoom lens that offers landscape photographers a broad range from ultra-wide to wide-angle views. Its constant f/2.8 aperture helps in low light, allowing for sharp images without the need for high ISO settings.
The lens’s optical design, featuring two ED glass elements and three aspherical elements, ensures minimal chromatic aberration and distortion. That’s why you get edge-to-edge sharpness at any point in the zoom range.
This lens is heavier than some alternatives. But its build quality justifies the extra weight, especially when you consider the weather sealing.
Its versatility is a big advantage for photographers who need to adjust their composition quickly. While it lacks image stabilization, this is less important when using a tripod for landscape photography.
In comparison to prime lenses, the Nikon AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G ED provides flexibility in framing shots without sacrificing image quality. It’s a good option for those who value the ability to capture varying perspectives from a single vantage point.
3. Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G ED
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
305 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
35 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G ED offers a natural perspective that can be quite effective for capturing landscapes with a sense of depth. The 35mm focal length is versatile, allowing you to use this lens for many types of photography. It’s also one of the most affordable lenses on the list.
Its optical design includes an aspherical element and an ED glass element, ensuring sharp images with minimal distortion. This is crucial for landscape photography, where fine details and accuracy are important.
This lens is light and easy to carry, perfect for photographers who trek to remote locations. Its weather-sealed mount adds a layer of protection against the elements, although it’s not fully weather-proof.
The lens’s close focusing distance is a helpful feature for those who include foreground interest in their landscapes.
The Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8 is a good option for landscape photographers looking for a high-quality prime lens that combines performance, portability, and affordability.
4. Nikon AF-S 28mm f/1.4E ED
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
645 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.4
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
28 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon AF-S 28mm f/1.4E ED is a prime lens that stands out for its wide aperture and sharpness, making it a strong choice for landscape photography. Its 28mm focal length offers a broad view, capturing vast scenes with a natural perspective.
The lens construction includes two ED elements and three aspherical elements, which help to deliver clear images with minimal chromatic aberration and distortion. Every detail is accurately represented, even at the very edges.
Despite its professional-grade build, the lens remains relatively light at 645 grams. Its weather sealing is a practical feature for those shooting in unpredictable outdoor conditions.
While the f/1.4 aperture is not crucial for deep landscapes, it allows for flexibility in low light and creative depth of field control.
The Nikon AF-S 28mm f/1.4E ED is a good option for landscape photographers who demand high-quality optics and may also venture into street or low-light photography where the wide aperture is needed. It’s a premium choice for those looking to invest in a lens that offers both performance and versatility.
5. Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM | A for Nikon F
| Brand |
Brand
Sigma
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
435 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.4
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
30 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM | A for Nikon F is a brilliant third-party lens for landscape photographers. It’s from Sigma’s prestigious Art line, so premium optics are guaranteed.
The lens is constructed with one aspherical element, reducing spherical aberrations and improving image sharpness. A special multi-layer coating also helps light transmission while reducing lens flare and ghosting.
Its wide f/1.4 aperture allows for low light shooting and depth of field control, which can be useful for adding creative effects to landscape photography.
This Sigma lens is relatively lightweight, making it a practical choice for photographers who travel. Its compact size does not compromise on optical quality, with the lens delivering good center sharpness and controlled chromatic aberration.
While it lacks weather sealing and image stabilization, these are less critical concerns when shooting landscapes with a tripod.
For landscape photographers using Nikon APS-C DSLR cameras, the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 is a good option. It offers a balance between quality and portability. It’s particularly well-suited for those who also engage in street or environmental portrait photography, where its focal length and aperture provide versatility.
Conclusion: The Best Nikon Lenses for Landscape Photography
Finding the best Nikon lens for landscape photography the key to capturing stunning, detailed scenes. The lenses reviewed offer a range of focal lengths and features to suit various shooting conditions and preferences.
Sharpness, minimal distortion, and anti-reflective coatings are common strengths, ensuring that photographers can produce clear, vibrant images. Weight and portability also factor into the decision, with lighter lenses favored by those who travel to remote locations.
The Nikon Z 24mm f/1.8 S stands out for its edge-to-edge sharpness and wide-angle view, making it ideal for expansive landscapes. The Nikon AF-S 24mm f/1.8G ED is similarly impressive, offering excellent clarity and minimal distortion. Both are top choices for their specific strengths.
