So I finally got an XT30 for my trip to the Smokies next month but I'm totally lost. I want those huge mountain shots but all these lens numbers are making my head spin. I only have about $500 left to spend. Sorry if this is dumb but what lens should I get for landscapes?
Do you need autofocus or are you cool with manual? Quick tip: just shoot at f/8 for sharpness. The Fujifilm XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR is a decent option tho.
I had the exact same panic before my Zion trip last summer! I grabbed the Samyang 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS Fuji X and it was incredible for those massive red rock vistas. Its manual focus, but for landscapes you just set it to infinity and forget it. Best money I ever spent! Quick tip: use f/8 for maximum sharpness across the whole mountain range.
Like someone mentioned, the Viltrox 13mm is great, but in my experience the Smokies get incredibly damp. For reliability, you need weather sealing. Over the years I've tested many lenses, and I suggest:
- Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Fujifilm X (24mm equivalent, dust/splash resistant mount)
- Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS (has optical stabilization) Both fit your budget used.
I ended up picking up the Viltrox AF 13mm f/1.4 XF last year and honestly, no complaints at all. It works well within your budget and the autofocus is super fast. Reminds me of my trip to the Smokies back in 2019, we stayed in this tiny cabin that got completely swarmed by ladybugs. Absolutely wild. Anyway, if you need help setting up the camera settings for the trip just let me know! But yeah, the Viltrox is solid.
Big if true