Im so frustrated right now. I tried taking photos of a huge building downtown yesterday but I couldnt fit the whole thing in my frame and it looked like garbage. I have an X-T30 and a budget of like 500 bucks. What wide-angle lens should I get for this thing? I have no idea what Im doing.
Regarding what #1 said about the struggle, I get it. Architecture is tough because you fight perspective distortion more than anything. Looking at what folks mentioned, you have some decent options, but for pure architectural precision on a budget, you should really look at the Tokina atx-m 11-18mm f/2.8 E. It gives you that variable focal length which is way more practical for building shots than a prime. I've used ultra-wides for years and the flexibility to zoom out to 11mm is a game changer for tight streets. Plus, it has solid AF performance. Stop worrying about primes for a second and just grab a versatile zoom. It will save you from constant lens swapping in the middle of a downtown shoot.
Have you considered the Fujifilm XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ? It is super cheap used and fits everything in. Are you looking to keep it compact or just want widest possible?
Ugh, the struggle is real. Been there. For your budget, here is what I would look at:
- Samyang 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS is super sharp and manual focus is actually fine for buildings since you usually have time.
- Fujifilm XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR is a great weather-sealed option that feels solid on the X-T30. Both are reliable choices that wont break the bank tbh.
Honestly, forget the manual focus struggle if you want shots quickly. I picked up a used Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 XF a while back and it changed everything for my architectural work. It is way sharper than the price suggests. If you keep an eye on the used market, you can snag one right around that 500 mark. It is a beast for the X-T30 and makes fitting those skyscrapers in way easier.
