Im heading to Iceland in three weeks and my kit lens just isnt cutting it for the landscapes I wanna shoot. My budget is super tight right now, maybe 400 bucks max, and I am honestly kinda panicking about getting decent shots. Ive been looking at the Tamron 18-200mm since it seems cheap but then I saw people saying the corners are soft at full zoom, and the Sony 55-210mm is even cheaper but I dont know if it will be sharp enough for actual print work? Im just so confused by all these forum threads that lead nowhere. Does anyone have a solid recommendation for a reliable budget zoom that wont fall apart or look like garbage?
Iceland is absolutely breathtaking, you are gonna have an amazing time! Honestly, ignore the pixel peepers complaining about corner softness. For your budget, grab the Sony E 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3 OSS. I took one to the Dolomites years ago and the results were fantastic for the price. Just keep your shutter speed up and use a decent tripod for those epic vistas. If you want a bit more reach, look for a used Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III VC. It is incredibly versatile and saves you from constantly swapping lenses in the wind. Seriously, stop stressing about the gear and just focus on the light. You can find these used for way under 400 bucks if you check the local listings. Grab one, pack some extra batteries, and just shoot everything!
@Reply #1 - good point! Honestly, for budget reach, try the Sony E 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3 OSS. It is decent for the cost. If you want sharpness, just stop down to f/8.
> the Sony 55-210mm is even cheaper Like someone mentioned, stick with Sony lenses! You honestly cant go wrong with any zoom from them for landscapes. Just stop down and have fun!
