What wide-angle lens should I get for my new Fujifilm X-T30? I honestly have no idea what I am doing here and I am sorry if this is a super dumb question but the options are just super overwhelming online. I just bought the camera last month and the kit lens is fine but I really want to take those big sweeping photos of the mountains when I go on a hiking trip in Colorado this summer. I dont have a ton of money to spend right now maybe like 500 bucks or so if thats even possible for a decent one?
I see some lenses that are tiny and some that are huge and I have no clue what focal length is good for landscapes. I just want something that makes the scenery look as big as it feels in person. Do I really need to buy the expensive Fuji brand ones or are those cheaper third party lenses actually okay? I really dont want to ruin my photos by buying junk. Also do I need a zoom or is a fixed one better for someone who is just learning the ropes? Any advice for a total beginner would be awesome because I am just so excited to get out there and start shooting...
Honestly, for an X-T30, you've got options. In my experience, for big mountains, reach for the Samyang 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS. It is manual focus but sharp as a tack for landscapes. If you want something easier, grab the Fujifilm XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ. It is cheap, super light, and does the job well. Dont sweat the high-end stuff yet, just get out there and practice.
Hey there. Stumbled on this thread and wanted to share what worked for me when I first started shooting mountains. I honestly felt just as overwhelmed back then. Being forced to keep it simple actually helped me learn so much more about framing because you have to move your own feet. I ended up picking up the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary and it has served me well for years. Here is why I think it works for beginners:
- It is sharp and built well for the price point compared to some other options.
- The wider aperture makes tricky mountain sunrise shots look crisp and bright.
- You wont feel like you wasted cash since the build quality is really solid. If you find one used, there is enough left in your budget for a nice strap or extra batteries. Try to prioritize the foreground when you are framing those shots—it makes the mountains feel huge.
Like someone mentioned, the Samyang is fine, but id honestly push you toward something with autofocus if you're just starting out. Manual focus is tough when youre hiking and just want to catch the shot. Check these out instead:
- Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 XF - insanely sharp and perfect for those giant views
- Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary - a total workhorse for landscapes Honestly, having autofocus makes a massive difference!
+1
Can confirm this works. Did the same thing on mine and its been solid ever since.