I'm primarily an avian and macro lover, but am heading to Ecuador in May and Botswana in November.
Need a good wide-angle landscape lens for my Nikon D300, as my 18-200 is ok, but not ideal.
Suggestions please? I've read about a Tokina or Tamron (can't remember) that is as good as a Nikon, at much less?
Thanks to all -
For several years I was really proud of my Nikkor 12-24, and had the dickens of a time keeping it out of my wife's camera bag. Any time I needed it, that was the first place I looked. Purely in self defense I bought her the Sigma 10-20 at half the price of the Nikkor. And it's better in all regards! It's sharper, more contrasty and more saturated. Best of all, the silly little 2mm at the lower end results in amazingly more coverage.
Now she's searching my camera bag for her lens! And yeah, it spends most of it's time on her D300 rather than her D2x. She prefers the lighter body.
Posted by Bill Chambers on April 26, 2010 at 8:50 AM
I've used the Tokina ATX 12-24 for 4-5 years and have been VERY happy with it, at approx.half the cost of the Nikon. The build quality is excellent, contrast very good, and overall sharpness very good. There's a good review of several wide angles on Nikonians. I used that review to justify buying the Tokina.
Posted by Neale Dyster on April 26, 2010 at 9:34 AM
I checked out a lot of reviews a year or two back and ended up with the Sigma 10-20 (on my D300). I've been really happy with it. Here's the address of a review : http://www.bythom.com/sigma10to20.htm
I don't use a Nikon camera, but I do use a Sigma 10-20 lens on my older DSLR and have been very pleased with the quality. There's actually a substantial difference in the field of view between 10mm and 12mm as you can see in the image above..
Posted by Bruce King on April 26, 2010 at 11:23 AM
I've had the Tokina 12-24 f4 for several months now and it's my #2 lens for sharpness behind the Sigma 150 macro, but that's apples and oranges. It's built like a tank and as for the extra 2mm the Sigma wide offers it is significant but I rarely find myself using the Tokina at its widest focal length, but find myself at 20-24mm quite often. Of course that's all a matter of personal style. For the money the Tokina is a real value IMO.
Posted by Jim Hackley on April 26, 2010 at 11:27 AM
I have a Nikon D300 and have used the Tokina ATX 12-24 with excellent results, very happy with that lens and image quality when I really want a wide angle, however I do not seem to use it all that much since I got my Nikkor 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G IF DX VR. I have been very pleased with the 16-85 lens and 90% of the time is wide enough for my use. I guess it just depends on budget and how much of a wide angle lens you think you need.
Jim
Posted by Paul DeCesare on April 26, 2010 at 12:15 PM
John, overall the shot it OK, I like the way the stove anchors the LL third of the image, but the light fixture at the top is too centered and the highlights look blown... oh! Wait! This isn't a photo critique??
Sandy, I know we all have budget constraints, but if your checkbook allows, there is one WA Nikon that us Canon-devotees use with an adapter because the glass is that good, the uber-expensive 14-24mm/2.8. Nikon has a gem with that lens, better optics than my Canon 16-35mm/2.8... problem is, they both cost about the same, at least $1500. I know, huge price! But the output will be stunning. I don't regret spending that on the Canon version, especially when I open the image in Photoshop. Anyway, if that's out of reach, I see amazing postings from folks all the time using that Sigma 10-20mm.
Posted by Larry Fischer on April 26, 2010 at 12:52 PM
Sandy, I've shot the Nikon 14-24 on both D700 and D300.
Actually, I wasn't impressed compared to all the hype. My old 28 mm manual did as well, and perhaps better.
Sound like the Sigma is the way to go. I've never used that brand but those who know seem to like the optics.
It is probably lighter than the Nikon 14-24 and perhaps more easily adapted to filters.
Sandy, I´d put it this way: If you´re about to spend some money, go for Nikon. 12-24mm f/4 is the lens I´ve been using for a year, real sharp, good glass, excellent star effect and ghosting/flaring control. Before that I used Tokina in the same focal range - 12-24 AT-X PRO f/4. I guess that´s the best choice after Nikon, and now there´s a new version, didn´t test it yet. About Sigma 10-20mm, I have known photographers working with that lens, I just don´t trust it, I´ve been told about mechanical problems from two photographers. Just my sincere thoughts.
Posted by Larry Fischer on April 26, 2010 at 2:27 PM
Sandy, I can send you some RAW with the Nikon 14-24, f/2.8 for your review. I can also send some RAW from my diminutive 28 mm manual for comparison. With your knack for photography you can then gage these two lenses.
My e-mail is listed.
And realize that some lenses within a class are unique and just give better results than others of the same ilk. The reviews are quite high for the Nikon 14-24.
I've only had mine for several months and most of them cloudy and dim.
Remember, in general, "The sweetness of quality exceeds the bitterness of price".
I was really surprised no one has mentioned my favorite wide angle lens for the D300, the Tokina 11-16 (f2.8). This and the 18-200 are the two lens I travel with and use all the time on my D300. The price is right, the glass, image, sharpness is better than Nikon.
KenRockwell.com's review is here: http://www.kenrockwell.com/tokina/11-16mm.htm.
An added player was announced today: (added just for info, for any others who look at this thread in the future)
Sigma Corporation of America's New 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM Lens Now Available
By PPA Staffon
April 26, 2010 2:31 PM
Sigma Corporation of America has announced that its new, 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM lens, which incorporates the company's new "F" Low Dispersion (FLD) lens glass, is now available.
This rectilinear lens, which was first introduced at PMA 2010 in February, is the widest angle zoom lens on the market today. The 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM is designed specifically for APS-C size image sensors and has an equivalent angle of view of a 12-24mm lens when used on digital cameras of that sensor size. The lens is currently available in Canon mount at all authorized Sigma dealers for the MSRP of $1,100, and it will be available in Sigma, Nikon, Sony and Pentax mounts in the coming weeks.
"As the manufacturer of the first ultra wide angle lens, there are a number of reasons why we are incredibly excited about the arrival of this lens. The fact that it produces a wide-angle view of nearly 121.2 degrees, depending on what camera you are shooting with, is definitely at the top of that list," said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, general manager of Sigma Corporation of America. "Another feature that we are extremely proud of is this lens' use of our company's new FLD glass, which boasts performance equal to fluorite glass, but without the added weight."
FLD glass is the highest level, low dispersion glass available with extremely high light transmission. With a performance equal to fluorite glass, this optical glass has a low refractive index and low dispersion compared to current optical glass. It also benefits from high anomalous dispersion. These characteristics offer excellent correction for residual chromatic aberration (secondary spectrum), which cannot be corrected by ordinary optical glass and ensures high-definition and high-contrast images.
In addition to having four elements of the FLD glass, the 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM also offers one hybrid aspherical lens and two glass mold elements for excellent correction of distortion and astigmatism. It incorporates an inner focusing system to produce high-definition images throughout the entire zoom range, and has Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting with superior peripheral brightness to produce high-contrast images. The lens' Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) provides quiet and high-speed auto focus, as well as full-time manual focus capability.
The 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM has a minimum focusing distance of 9.4 inches throughout the entire zoom range to create exaggerated perspectives and help photographers emphasize the subject. Its compact construction measures up to an overall length of 4.2 inches and a maximum diameter of 2.9 inches.
Sandy, I don't know what your budget is, but as long as others are discussing the 14-24, I want to suggest that you look for reviews on the Zeiss 21 f2.8. You can buy the Nikon version for ~$1700 and the optics are superior to Nikon's 14-24. Granted, it is not a zoom but I don't find that zoom is that important on a wide angle. It is also manual focus but has an indicator light to tell you when you have optimal focus. Anyway, at least check out this review on the Canon version, tested on the 21MP 5D Mkii. The Nikon version will have the same optics.
http://www.photozone.de/canon_eos_ff/470-zeiss_zf_21_28_5d
- Michele
Hi Sandy, I have more questions than answers.....Will you eventually upgrade to a D700x...or D3x...or D3s...ie full frame? If yes, then are you OK with buying a lens for the D300(1.5x), then selling it if you decide to go w/full frame? Or will you stick w/1.5x cameras? And what will you want to carry on those trips...how are you transporting the gear? Weight and comfort...are important. Esp if you plan to carry on the plane your camera w/tripod, 105mm, and 500mm....and another wide angle. Finally, don't forget the option of photomerge that allows you "some" options if you need to get composition a tad wider.
Looking at your portfolio and gallery, you take full advantage of the 105 and 500 mm lens for your wonderful flora and avian shots. You have a great composition 'eye' for landscapes...but, you don't seem to shoot and submit the wide landscape comps with the same frequency as flora/avian. I think a super-wide angle such as 10-20 or 14-24 may get limited use when you return. The resale value and quality of Sigma 10-20 (15-30mm in ff) might be the ticket. Looking forward to seeing trip photos! Oh...and what about mid-range...24-70mm zoom too? Ken S
Posted by Bill Chambers on April 27, 2010 at 10:03 PM
Sigma 8-16 huh? Sounds pretty neat!
I mentioned the comparison on Nikonians the other day. Don't know if you've had a chance to look at that yet, but it's located HERE if you choose to check it out.
Posted by Rodney Ninow on May 31, 2010 at 11:10 AM
Yup - I got the Sigma 10-20 at a great price on EBAY and am very happy with it. I'm sure all the lenses we discussed are good lenses, but I didn't think I could beat the $450 price on EBay. I might have gone for the nikon if I planned to use it more - but I'm still mainly a bird and macro shooter.
Discussion
18 repliesNeed a good wide-angle landscape lens for my Nikon D300, as my 18-200 is ok, but not ideal.
Suggestions please? I've read about a Tokina or Tamron (can't remember) that is as good as a Nikon, at much less?
Thanks to all -
Sandy r
For several years I was really proud of my Nikkor 12-24, and had the dickens of a time keeping it out of my wife's camera bag. Any time I needed it, that was the first place I looked. Purely in self defense I bought her the Sigma 10-20 at half the price of the Nikkor. And it's better in all regards! It's sharper, more contrasty and more saturated. Best of all, the silly little 2mm at the lower end results in amazingly more coverage.
Now she's searching my camera bag for her lens! And yeah, it spends most of it's time on her D300 rather than her D2x. She prefers the lighter body.
Jim
Sandy, I know we all have budget constraints, but if your checkbook allows, there is one WA Nikon that us Canon-devotees use with an adapter because the glass is that good, the uber-expensive 14-24mm/2.8. Nikon has a gem with that lens, better optics than my Canon 16-35mm/2.8... problem is, they both cost about the same, at least $1500. I know, huge price! But the output will be stunning. I don't regret spending that on the Canon version, especially when I open the image in Photoshop. Anyway, if that's out of reach, I see amazing postings from folks all the time using that Sigma 10-20mm.
Actually, I wasn't impressed compared to all the hype. My old 28 mm manual did as well, and perhaps better.
Sound like the Sigma is the way to go. I've never used that brand but those who know seem to like the optics.
It is probably lighter than the Nikon 14-24 and perhaps more easily adapted to filters.
the fisch
My e-mail is listed.
And realize that some lenses within a class are unique and just give better results than others of the same ilk. The reviews are quite high for the Nikon 14-24.
I've only had mine for several months and most of them cloudy and dim.
Remember, in general, "The sweetness of quality exceeds the bitterness of price".
the fisch
KenRockwell.com's review is here: http://www.kenrockwell.com/tokina/11-16mm.htm.
Sigma Corporation of America's New 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM Lens Now Available
By PPA Staffon
April 26, 2010 2:31 PM
Sigma Corporation of America has announced that its new, 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM lens, which incorporates the company's new "F" Low Dispersion (FLD) lens glass, is now available.
This rectilinear lens, which was first introduced at PMA 2010 in February, is the widest angle zoom lens on the market today. The 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM is designed specifically for APS-C size image sensors and has an equivalent angle of view of a 12-24mm lens when used on digital cameras of that sensor size. The lens is currently available in Canon mount at all authorized Sigma dealers for the MSRP of $1,100, and it will be available in Sigma, Nikon, Sony and Pentax mounts in the coming weeks.
"As the manufacturer of the first ultra wide angle lens, there are a number of reasons why we are incredibly excited about the arrival of this lens. The fact that it produces a wide-angle view of nearly 121.2 degrees, depending on what camera you are shooting with, is definitely at the top of that list," said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, general manager of Sigma Corporation of America. "Another feature that we are extremely proud of is this lens' use of our company's new FLD glass, which boasts performance equal to fluorite glass, but without the added weight."
FLD glass is the highest level, low dispersion glass available with extremely high light transmission. With a performance equal to fluorite glass, this optical glass has a low refractive index and low dispersion compared to current optical glass. It also benefits from high anomalous dispersion. These characteristics offer excellent correction for residual chromatic aberration (secondary spectrum), which cannot be corrected by ordinary optical glass and ensures high-definition and high-contrast images.
In addition to having four elements of the FLD glass, the 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM also offers one hybrid aspherical lens and two glass mold elements for excellent correction of distortion and astigmatism. It incorporates an inner focusing system to produce high-definition images throughout the entire zoom range, and has Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting with superior peripheral brightness to produce high-contrast images. The lens' Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) provides quiet and high-speed auto focus, as well as full-time manual focus capability.
The 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM has a minimum focusing distance of 9.4 inches throughout the entire zoom range to create exaggerated perspectives and help photographers emphasize the subject. Its compact construction measures up to an overall length of 4.2 inches and a maximum diameter of 2.9 inches.
http://www.photozone.de/canon_eos_ff/470-zeiss_zf_21_28_5d
- Michele
Looking at your portfolio and gallery, you take full advantage of the 105 and 500 mm lens for your wonderful flora and avian shots. You have a great composition 'eye' for landscapes...but, you don't seem to shoot and submit the wide landscape comps with the same frequency as flora/avian. I think a super-wide angle such as 10-20 or 14-24 may get limited use when you return. The resale value and quality of Sigma 10-20 (15-30mm in ff) might be the ticket. Looking forward to seeing trip photos! Oh...and what about mid-range...24-70mm zoom too? Ken S
I mentioned the comparison on Nikonians the other day. Don't know if you've had a chance to look at that yet, but it's located HERE if you choose to check it out.
Thanks to everyone for their input!
Sandy