04/11/2025 3:30 am
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Hey everyone,
So, I just pre-ordered the Nikon Z6 III (so excited!), and I'm already starting to think about lenses. I'm trying to figure out the best all-around lens to pair with it. I know there are tons of options, and that's honestly part of the problem!
I'm not a pro or anything, just an enthusiastic hobbyist who likes to shoot a bit of everything – landscapes when I'm hiking, portraits of my family, and the occasional bit of street photography when I'm traveling. I'd ideally like something versatile enough that I don't have to swap lenses constantly. I am aware that a single lens cannot cover everything perfectly.
I've been looking at the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 S, but it's pretty pricey. I've also seen some good things about the 24-120mm f/4 S as a more budget-friendly option, but I'm a little worried about the slower aperture for portraits. Is the sharpness and overall image quality of the 24-70mm *really* that much better to justify the price difference for my use case? Or would something like the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 be a good alternative?
Basically, I'm looking for that sweet spot of image quality, versatility, and (relatively) reasonable price. What would you guys recommend as the best all-around lens for a new Z6 III owner like myself? Any experiences with these lenses on other Z bodies would be amazing to hear!
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04/11/2025 3:31 am
Hey there!
Congrats on pre-ordering the Z6 III – you're gonna love it! I totally get the lens dilemma. I've been there, staring at all the options, feeling overwhelmed. Been shooting Nikon for over 15 years now, and finding the right all-rounder is always a tough call.
Honestly, I've had a bit of a journey with 'all-rounder' lenses. I actually started with a 24-70mm f/2.8 (not the Z version, but similar idea) years ago, thinking it would be *the* lens. Unfortunately, I found myself wanting more reach pretty quickly. That 70mm just wasn't cutting it for some landscapes and definitely not for any wildlife I tried to sneak shots of. Plus, lugging that thing around on long hikes got old fast.
So, here's my slightly unconventional recommendation, based on your use case: Have you considered the Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4.5-6.3 VR? I know, I know, the variable aperture isn't ideal, especially coming from someone who mentioned the 24-70mm f/2.8. But hear me out! For landscapes, street, *and* family portraits, that extra reach is a lifesaver. I've used it on my Z6 and Z7 for years. Honestly, the image quality is surprisingly good, especially stopped down a bit. It's also super compact and lightweight, which is a massive bonus for travel and hiking.
I actually had issues with the 24-120mm f/4 S. The sharpness just wasn't as good as I expected, especially at the edges, and the distortion control wasn't amazing either. I ended up returning it. The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 is a decent option – I've heard good things – but you do lose that wider 24mm on the wide end, which can be a bummer for landscapes. You might also want to check out the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art for Nikon Z. I believe it offers better value than the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 S. However, from what I know, the autofocus motor is not as good as the one on Nikon lenses.
Ultimately, it depends on what you prioritize. But for a true all-rounder that won't break the bank and will give you a ton of flexibility, that 24-200mm is worth a serious look. Don't get too caught up in chasing the 'perfect' lens; sometimes, versatility trumps everything else.
Hope this helps! Feel free to ask questions.
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04/11/2025 3:55 am
Hey there! I see you're deep in the lens rabbit hole, haha. It's a tough choice, especially with a shiny new Z6 III on the way. I'm a bit more cautious when it comes to lenses, and while everyone's chasing the latest and greatest, I tend to stick with Nikon glass for my Nikon bodies.
Honestly, the 24-120mm f/4 S is a *very* solid choice as an all-rounder. Yeah, f/2.8 is nice for portraits, but the 24-120mm is surprisingly sharp, even wide open, and the extra reach is super useful. Plus, it's weather-sealed, which is a big plus if you're hiking. You can always add a fast prime later if you *really* need that creamy bokeh for portraits. I've got it on my Z7 II and no complaints at all. I'm happy with the image quality and the versatility it gives me.
I'd be a bit hesitant about a third-party lens as your primary lens, at least initially. Maybe try the 24-120mm first. That's just my conservative approach, though! Hope this helps!
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04/11/2025 4:15 am
Hey! I totally get the price anxiety. Honestly, that 24-70mm f/2.8 *is* amazing, but for a hobbyist? Hmm. The 24-120mm f/4 is a fantastic value and super versatile. Don't underestimate it! Also, that Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 is a great shout - sharp and budget-friendly. If portraits are a HUGE deal, maybe the Tamron. But for all-around value, I'd lean towards the 24-120mm. You can always add a fast prime later if you need super creamy bokeh! Hope this helps!
