So I just picked up a Z6ii and I'm totally lost on what lens to stick on it permanently. I've been reading a ton of reviews and everyone says the 24-120mm f/4 S is like the gold standard for travel but then I see people swearing by the 24-70mm f/4 because it's so much lighter and cheaper. I'm going to Japan in June and I really dont want to be swapping lenses constantly while I'm walking around Tokyo or hiking near Fuji.
My constraints:
- budget is around $1100 maybe a bit more if its worth it
- gotta be good for street photography and landscapes
- not too heavy since I'm walking 20k steps a day
Is the 24-120 too bulky for a three week trip or should I just stick with the kit lens and save the cash?
TL;DR: Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S. I'm super satisfied; the range was more reliable for landscapes than the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S was on my last trip. Works well.
I've spent years lugging gear around cities like Kyoto and honestly, the extra weight adds up by day five. Taking a heavy setup to Europe once left my neck killing me... Are you planning on doing much shooting at night or in low light in the Tokyo backstreets? If not, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR is a solid, lighter alternative, though the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S has better weather sealing.
Unfortunately, the current state of lens manufacturing is just frustrating for anyone who values actual reliability. I have had issues with multiple expensive pieces of glass recently and it honestly feels like a scam when you consider the price tags involved. It drives me crazy that you are expected to drop over a thousand dollars on a lens that might not even survive a bit of dust or heavy use during a trek like yours. The weight-to-performance ratio on most of these options is just not as good as expected and the lack of consistency is a massive headache. Honestly, it is ridiculous that companies keep pushing these products when the build quality feels so hit-or-miss. I have been deeply disappointed by gear failing at the worst possible moments... it really sours the whole experience of travel photography when you cant trust your kit.
Late to the party but this whole thread is 💯. Glad I found it.
Re: "Unfortunately, the current state of lens manufacturing is..."
- I totally feel that frustration. Everything feels overpriced these days. If you're trying to be practical about the budget and weight, honestly consider the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 for Nikon Z. In my experience, its much more manageable for 20k steps a day than the 24-120. I've done the one lens trip many times and having f/2.8 for those rainy Tokyo nights is way better than having extra zoom range you might not even use. Plus it's significantly cheaper than the Nikon S-line stuff while being super sharp. It's basically the best value play for the Z6ii right now. If you're worried about the wide end for Fuji landscapes, you can usually just shoot a panorama or take a step back. Dont overthink the gear too much... Japan is amazing and you wont want to be fussing with a heavy bag the whole time. Buying used is also a pro move to stay way under that $1100 limit. Spend the savings on a JR Pass or better sushi.
