10 Best Nikon Landscape Lens 2026 in the United States

The Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G lens is a solid choice for landscape photography enthusiasts, offering a fixed focal length of 35mm which is ideal for capturing wide scenes. The lens boasts a fast f/1.4 aperture, allowing for excellent low-light performance and beautiful background blur (bokeh). This can be particularly useful during dawn or dusk shoots when lighting conditions are less than ideal. The Nano Crystal Coat helps reduce ghosting and flare, ensuring sharp, high-contrast images with minimal distortion. Additionally, the aspherical lens element further enhances image quality by minimizing chromatic aberrations and other distortions.

The lens is designed to deliver edge-to-edge sharpness on both FX and DX-format Nikon DSLRs, making it versatile for different camera bodies. However, it does lack image stabilization, which means that you'll need steady hands or a tripod to avoid blur, especially in low-light conditions. The lens is also on the heavier side, weighing in at 1.32 pounds, which might be a consideration for photographers who prefer lighter gear for long hikes or travel.

It is well-built but does not mention specific weather sealing, so extra care may be needed in harsh weather conditions. Despite these drawbacks, the lens's high build quality, exceptional optics, and professional-grade performance make it a great investment for serious landscape photographers.

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens is renowned for its ultra-fast f/1.4 aperture, making it a stellar choice for portrait photography due to its ability to create a beautiful background blur and perform well in low light. With a fixed focal length of 85mm, it delivers excellent edge-to-edge sharpness, ensuring high-quality images on both FX and DX cameras. The Nano Crystal Coat reduces ghosting and flare, adding to the image quality.

Additionally, the lens features an M/A Focus Mode Switch for quick changes between manual and autofocus, and Internal Focus (IF) for fast and quiet autofocus operation, which is beneficial for both stills and video recording. However, when it comes to landscape photography, the 85mm focal length might be somewhat limiting. Landscapes typically benefit from wider lenses that can capture broader scenes.

Moreover, this lens does not include image stabilization, which could be a drawback for handheld landscape shots, especially in lower light conditions. The lens is also quite weighty at 1.31 pounds and lacks weather sealing, which might be a consideration for outdoor photographers who often work in varying weather conditions. In summary, while the Nikon 85mm f/1.4G is an exceptional lens for portraits and detailed shots, landscape photographers might find it less versatile due to its focal length and lack of weather sealing and image stabilization.

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 17-35mm f/2.8D IF-ED Zoom Lens is a robust option for landscape photography, designed specifically for Nikon DSLR cameras. Its wide focal range of 17-35mm allows for versatile shooting, making it ideal for capturing expansive landscapes. The maximum aperture of f/2.8 facilitates shooting in lower light conditions while allowing for beautiful depth of field effects. The inclusion of aspherical and ED glass elements improves image quality, reducing distortion and color fringing, which is crucial for landscape images where clarity is key.

This lens features a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for fast and quiet autofocus, beneficial when capturing wildlife or serene landscapes without disturbing the environment. Additionally, the 9-blade rounded diaphragm helps create pleasing out-of-focus backgrounds, enhancing the artistic quality of your shots.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The lens does not include built-in image stabilization, which may be a concern for photographers working in low-light settings or shooting handheld. While the lens offers weather sealing, it might not be as rugged as some higher-end options available, limiting its use in extreme conditions. Weighing 26.3 ounces, it’s also on the heavier side, which could be a factor for photographers who need to carry their gear for long periods. This lens excels in image quality and versatility, making it a great choice for dedicated landscape photographers. Just keep in mind the weight and the absence of image stabilization if those factors are important for your shooting style.