im so sick of looking at reviews everything is so expensive now and im just getting more confused. i need a wide lens for my D850 before my trip to Glacier in two weeks and i keep going back and forth on what to grab. i found a used Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 for 650 but then people say the Tamron 15-30mm G2 is actually better because of the stabilization. my budget is strictly 700 bucks so i cant go higher. the nikon is legendary but that tamron seems newer and maybe sharper? i just dont want to regret buying something this old. which one would you actually pick for mountain shots?
Just saw this! Shooting handheld or tripod?
- Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2: 4.5-stop VC is insane!
- Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED: elite Nano Crystal Coat! Lmk!
Adding my two cents here. Before you commit, are you planning on using a polarizer or ND filters for the water shots? Glacier has tons of lakes and that glare is brutal. Both the Nikon 14-24 and the Tamron have bulbous front glass, so youll need a massive, pricey filter holder system. That could easily add 200 bucks to your bill and put you over budget. I would suggest these for a more reliable, budget-friendly setup:
- Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR
- It has great stabilization and takes normal 77mm screw-on filters. Very safe choice for landscape work.
- Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED
- Lightweight and surprisingly sharp. Its way easier to carry up a trail than those heavy f/2.8 zooms.
- Irix 15mm f/2.4 Blackstone
- Built like a tank with excellent weather sealing, tho its manual focus only. Be careful with used gear so close to your trip. Make sure you test the autofocus and glass thoroughly as soon as it arrives so you dont get stuck with a lemon.
Quick reply while I have a sec! Like someone mentioned, that filter situation is a huge deal for Glacier. I remember standing at Swiftcurrent Lake at sunrise years ago... the glare off the water was just brutal and I wouldve been so bummed without my polarizer! Basically the thread is split between the legendary Nikon build and the newer Tamron tech. Heres my breakdown of whats been discussed plus a wild card:
- Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED: I used this for a decade and it is a total tank! Fantastic for that classic look, but honestly, the lens flare can be a bit much when the sun hits those mountain ridges.
- Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2: Love this beast! Its definitely sharper on the D850 high-res sensor and that stabilization is amazing for handheld trekking when you dont want to setup a tripod.
- Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED: If you want to save cash for gas and gear, check this prime out!! It takes normal 77mm filters which are way cheaper and its light as a feather for hiking up to Grinnell Glacier. Seriously, if you are set on a zoom, the Tamron G2 is a monster for the price. Have an amazing trip, Glacier is literally heaven on earth!
Ive lugged gear through Glacier for years. Id pick:
- Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 for sharpness.
- Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED for the classic feel. Tamron wins tbh.
Been thinking about your trip and regarding what #3 said about "Adding my two cents here. Before you commit,..." - he is spot on about the filters, but I politely disagree on the lens choice. I have used that f/4 zoom before and honestly, I was never fully satisfied with the sharpness in the corners. When you are standing in front of those massive peaks in Glacier, you really want that extra width and the reliability of a faster lens. I am much happier with my heavier glass because it feels solid and doesn't struggle when the light gets low. I do have a couple questions tho. Are you planning on trying any astro or Milky Way shots while you are there? The skies are incredible and that f/2.8 would be a huge help. Also, are you gonna be hiking deep into the backcountry or mostly sticking to the main overlooks? That extra weight is something to think about if you are doing ten miles a day.
