Landscape photography calls for a good quality wide-angle lens. With such a variety of lenses out there, you may have a hard time choosing one that can help you capture the best landscape photos.
There are certain factors that can’t be ignored when looking to pick up a wide-angle lens. The angle of view, sensor type, magnification, and other elements will all contribute specific effects to your photos. We share some of the best lenses for landscape photography below.
1. Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM
The first lens that we’re going to take a look at is the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM. This is definitely one of the better options you can get your hands on and is a must-have if you own a Sony camera. Sure, the price might be on the higher side, but the features will make your experience capturing landscape shots much better.
Sony’s 16-35mm features two XA elements, high surface precision, and a minimum focus distance rating of 0.28m. This lens also features a constant aperture of f/2.8, which helps to improve the depth of your photos. The 16-35mm is compatible with the Sony E-mount system.
2. Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM
If you own a Canon camera and want to know the best way to improve your landscape shots, then get your hands on Canon’s ultra wide-angle EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM zoom lens.
In addition to the ultra wide-angle lens body, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM also comes with a lens hood, lens case, and front lens cap. There is a one-year warranty period on the lens, ensuring you can get a repair done on any factory defects that you may notice.
3. Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-90mm f/2.8-4 ASPH (Overall Winner)
Leica is known for producing some of the world’s best cameras – and the same goes for their lenses. If you prefer quality and you already own a Leica camera, then this is the lens for you. The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-90mm f/2.8-4 ASPH lens makes capturing photos easier, adding just the right amount of exposure, depth, and, of course, a great viewing angle to every shot you take.
Leica’s Vario-Elmarit lens is definitely on the pricier side, with a single lens reaching way past $4,500. It is important that you ensure the lens will fit your existing camera prior to purchase. The lens comes with a hood, as well as caps for both the rear and front ends of the product. Damages are covered with Leica’s two-year limited warranty period.
4. Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8E ED
Next up on our list is the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8E ED. This is another excellent option, and compatible with cameras that feature an F-Mount system. The lens itself has an aperture range that can be adjusted from f/2.8 to f/22. When you decide to get your hands on this lens, you can choose between two different options – including the base lens, as well as a more advanced option that the brand has made available.
The Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8E ED features HRI, ED, AS, and Asp/ED elements, making it one of the most popular lenses for landscape photography. The 24-70mm also features a nanocrystal integrated coating.
5. Panasonic LUMIX 12-60mm
The Panasonic LUMIX 12-60mm is a good option to consider if you’re unable to afford the many wide-angle lenses that come at a much higher price. A range of essential features is available, making this one of the most versatile lenses for landscape photography. You get an autofocusing that works quickly, along with image stabilization that is built right into the lens itself. The lens also doubles as a standard option, allowing you to use a single accessory for different types of photo shoots.
Panasonic’s 12-60mm is the result of a collaboration between Panasonic and Leica. It features a metal body for improved durability, along with a nano surface coating to reduce flaring.
6. Sigma 12-24mm f/4 DG HSM Art Lens
The next option to consider is the Sigma 12-24mm f/4 DG HSM Art Lens. This particular model was designed to provide an ideal fit for a Sigma SA-mount DSLR camera, but the lens is available in alternative versions that fit Nikon and Canon cameras. While the price tag is a bit high, the lens does offer a number of advanced features that are ideal for landscape photography.
One thing unique to the Sigma 12-24mm f/4 is the fact that the brand promises zero distortion. This makes the 12-24mm one of the best lenses for landscape photography. This lens features an ultra-wide angle along with an aperture of f/4.
7. Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D Sony FE
Just because you haven’t heard of a particular brand doesn’t necessarily mean they’re bad. The Laowa brand is often considered a hidden gem as they offer camera accessories that are relatively affordable but come with a range of advanced features. Take a look at the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D Sony FE. While this lens fits Sony FE mount systems, there are other models available for other camera brands.
The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens features an ultra-wide angle for impressive landscape photography. This is also a full frame lens that features a macro manual adjustment system, giving you full control over your shots.
8. Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM
If you own a camera from the popular Canon brand, are on a budget, but would like to dig a little into landscape photography, consider the Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM. The lens itself features a wide angle that makes it ideal for capturing landscape photos.
9. Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS
The Rokinon brand provides a number of basic lenses that perform well at really great prices. The Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS is a great affordable option for photographers who would like to experiment with wide-angle photography. In addition to the base package, you can also choose bundles that come with additional filters.
The Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS is compatible with Sony E-mount systems. It features a nano crystal coating and a perfect aperture range for outdoor photography.
10. Altura Photo 8mm f/3 (Budget Winner)
We finish off our list of the best lenses for landscape photography with the Altura Photo 8mm f/3. This is the option you want to look at if you wish to take a few landscape shots but are very limited on cash.
This fisheye lens is compatible with a range of Canon EOS Rebel cameras, including DSLR options, such as the 77D and 80D. There are alternative versions for other cameras available as well.
Choosing the Best Lenses for Landscape Photography
Packing a high-quality wide-angle lens into your camera bag while outdoors can give you the ability to capture the perfect landscape. There are many of these lenses out there today, but not all give you the ability to enhance your landscape shots. We looked at some of the best options that you should consider in this post. With the best lenses for landscape photography, you can capture the true beauty of mother nature.
