Best Lenses for the Nikon Z6 for Landscape and Adventure Photography
As Nikon builds up its lens arsenal for the Z mirrorless system, Z6 and Z7 owners (as well as Z6ii and Z7ii) really don’t have a lot of options when it comes to lens choices. That being said, what I consider their best lenses for landscape and adventure photography that Nikon has produced so far are sharp, lightweight and some even relatively affordable! Here are my top choices for the best lenses for Nikon z6 photography.
Nikkor Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR
You’re probably thinking, really? Out of all the lenses the Z system has to offer, you’re recommending the 24-200mm? Yup! This is the BEST walk-around lens Nikon currently offers in the Z mount, and if you’re a landscape or adventure photographer, this lens covers 2/3 of the desired ‘trifecta’ lens set (a wide, mid and zoom), you get two for one! That means less gear to carry around, and while this isn’t the fastest lens in the world, it is a tack-sharp, no-frills compact and lightweight lens at a great price.
Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S
Nikon recently released the faster 14-24mm f/2.8 (which is not only 200 grams heavier, but also takes uncommon 112mm filters, and is 2.5x the price) but for me the 14-30mm f/4 is the best landscape lens for the Nikon Z6. It’s significantly lighter, smaller, takes the more standard 82mm filter size and paired with the Z 24-200mm, completes your camera ‘trifecta’ (bifecta?) at a fraction of the cost (and weight!). The lens produces beautiful, sharp images and I absolutely love the small size.
Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/4 S
This lens doesn’t get enough credit. Yes, this is the original kit lens for the Z6 and Z7, but it’s probably one of the best kit lens on the market (only comparable to the Fujifilm 18-55mm f/2.8-4). This is a great starter lens, offering superb image quality paired with an affordable price (if buying secondhand) and range. It’s wide enough to capture landscapes but can also handle its own for portraits and a little bit of zoom. I recently took this lens on a trip to Yosemite and it did not disappoint, you can see some of those photos here.
Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.8 S
Naturally the ‘nifty fifty’ was going to end up on this list. I’m still not thrilled about the $500 price tag (especially when the Sony equivalent is half the price) and I also don’t care for prime lenses (more on that later) BUT, this lens has been heralded as one of the best optically of Nikon’s new Z lenses. I consider it the best portrait lens for the Nikon Z6. This lovely lens is weather-sealed, and is quick at f/1.8 creating beautiful (if, a little sharp) bokeh, and in regards to good sharpness, is totally sharp from edge to edge. If you need a fast lens for your kit, add this one to your bag.
Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S
As a landscape photographer, I see this lens and I immediately think of it as the perfect astrophotography lens. Sure, you can buy this instead of the 14-30mm (which, as I write this, is something I’m actually considering) and by doing that you would get a fast landscape AND astrophotography lens in one. It takes beautiful shots at f/1.8 and can get a little soft in the corners when completely open, but still takes incredible images. If you don’t mind using your legs to zoom, this lens is a perfect replacement for the 14-30mm if you’re looking for something faster. The 20mm is the best astrophotography lens for the Nikon Z6.