The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 isn’t quite in the same category in terms of how it is viewed. It’s not Nikon’s premium zoom option but it is a really good one that covers an incredibly useful focal range. So the question here isn’t whether the zoom is as good as the primes, it’s not, but whether it’s worth buying the primes for those of us who own the 24-120mm. How much better is sharpness, how much difference does f/1.8 make vs f/4 actually make, and are there other benefits that make it worth spending the money to add primes to your kit. You can see how the zoom compares against the Nikon Z 50mm 1.8S here and against the Nikon Z 85mm 1.8S here.

I purchased all the lenses mentioned in this article with my own money. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you decide to buy through them.

I’ve been shooting the 24-120mm f4 for months, I’ve owned the 1.8S primes for well over a year. I bought the primes while I was still living in the Philippines and used them for candid travel photography , family photos and some street photography. I’ve reviewed them all individually. In my collection I own the 20mm, 35mm, 50mm and 85mm lenses. I also own the 14-30mm f/4 and 24-120mm f/4. I previously owned the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 (the original one) and found it to be an exceptional lens but sold it a couple of years back as I felt it sat in the middle ground between the more practical 24-120mm with its really useful focal range and the primes with their ability to isolate subjects and shoot in low light.

Now that I’ve been living on the edge of the Scottish Highlands for nearly 6 months, I’ve found myself appreciating good zoom lenses more than in recent years. So the aim of this series of articles is to see whether I would buy the primes again, if I had to start over and more importantly, whether it’s worth it for most people.

Size and weight

The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 is not a small lens at 630 grams, it feels substantial, and really well matched to my Nikon Z8, it also handles well on my Z6III, on my Zf, it’s horrible. However, it is below the point where I feel the size and weight become a major factor. When it’s mounted on the Z8, it balances well, doesn’t feel front heavy and I happily clip it on to my Peak Design Capture Clip when hiking. It has a telescopic zoom design which extends the barrel as you zoom through the focal ranges but even fully extended, it never feels unweildy.

It has a 77mm filter size which is pretty common and allows me to use my existing filters.

The 35mm 1.8S lens on the other hand feels compact, considerably smaller and lighter than the zoom at 370 grams and in general is in a different ballpark altogether in terms of handling. However, both feel equally well made, being S line lenses.

I’m not going to add much to this as it’s pretty obvious that you’re paying a size and weight penalty in return for the flexibility of the zoom. Whether it suits your shooting style and priorities is very subjective but neither is too heavy nor too small, theyre just obviously different.

Methodology

To test the lenses I’ve looked through my Lightroom catalogue at the various shots I’ve taken with each lens over the last year as well as shot some test images for more technical comparisons. The test shots were taken on my Nikon Z8, on a solid tripod (Leofoto Summit LM-364C). I started by focusing the 24-120mm as close as I could to the test subject, then shooting images through the aperture range. I then replicated this with the 35mm lens at the same distance before testing the prime at it’s minimum focus distance. Finally, I shot them both from approximately 6 feet away from the subject in order to see whether this affected sharpness and also to show an actual example of the difference that f/1.8 vs f/4 makes in terms of subject isolation and bokeh at a mid-range focusing distance.

Image Quality

The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4S lens is a sharp zoom, even wide-open at f/4, its decently sharp. Stopping down to f/5.6 it gets sharper still where I’d call it excellent, not quite on the level of the f/2.8 pro zoom but still more than good enough for everything from posting online to prints. At f/5.6 there is more detail and contrast. Viewed at 100% in Lightroom, the differences are quite obvious. At normal viewing distances on anything less than an A2 sized print and I doubt most people would be able to tell.

What surprised me somewhat is that the 35mm 1.8S is noticeably sharper at f/1.8 than the 24-120mm f/4 is at f/4. Unlike the Fuji comparisons I recently wrote, there is a noticeable difference in centre sharpness between the zoom and the prime lens. I also noticed that even though I didn’t get the Zoom bang on 35mm (it was 33.5mm), the prime is giving a wider field of view. I double checked this and confirmed it was the case.

Once the 35mm 1.8S lens is stopped down to f/4, it sharpens up even more and increases the gap between itself and the 24-120mm lens. The prime is substantially sharper at f/4 than the zoom, showing a lot more detail and contrast.

Once the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 is stopped down to f/5.6 it sharpens up and closes the gap to the prime. At f/5.6 sharpness is excellent for the zoom and pin sharp with the prime. In my personal opinion, once we are at these levels of sharpness, which one wins almost becomes irrelevant as they’re both sharp enough to look great on screen or in print.

Nikon quotes the 24-120mm as having a minimum focus distance of 35cm compared with 25cm on the 35mm 1.8S. 10cm doesn’t sound much on paper and it’s hard to visualise the difference by looking at the numbers alone, so here is a comaprison of them both shot wide-open at their respective minimum focus distances.

I think the difference, when you actually see it in a shot is much more dramatic than the numbers would suggest. The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4S, at roughly 35mm focal length simply will not focus as closely as the 35mm 1.8S. This has a profound effect, combined with the larger aperture of the prime on it’s ability to thow backgrounds out of focus in a way that the zoom cannot get anywhere near. I would note that the zoom is considered to have an impressive minimum focus distance, and of course you can zoom in further to throw the background out of focus more, if of course, you are able to step back and shoot from further away.

This kind of test is useful but how often do you shoot at such close distances? I can’t think of many times in the last 20 years that I’ve done this. So to see what f/1.8 vs f/4 looks like in a more likely scenario, I moved the tripod back to 6 feet away from the subject and shot both lenses wide open to give a more realistic idea of the difference.

Judge for yourself, but the 35mm 1.8S is able to isolate the subject and throw the background more out of focus than the 24-120mm. That was always going to be the case but at this kind of mid-range shooting distance, I’m actually a little underwhelmed with the difference between the two. Yes the prime looks better but I still wouldn’t exactly call it a blown out or creamy background. My thoughts on this are that it shows that the distance to subject and between the subject and background, would have more effect on the ability to blur backgrounds than simply going from f/4 to f/1.8.

Verdict

These two lenses are designed for completely different roles, but where they overlap, the prime is clearly better in terms of shrapness, ability to islolate subjects and of course, will perform better in low light. That was always going to be the case, but how much sharper it is was the real take-away from my testing. However, if you shoot landscapes, general photography, travel, then in this focal range, if you already own the zoom, I don’t see the case for saying the prime lens is worth it. Stopped down to f/5.6, the zoom is already showing excellent sharpness. 35mm is a storytelling focal length where often, we want all of the scene to be in focus so the brighter aperture isn’t as much of a benefit as it may be at longer focal lengths. And, of course, you can always shoot the zoom at a longer focal length in order to give more background separation if you want to. For landscapes, the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 is already good enough if like me, you usually stop down to f/8 and beyond. In this particular comparison, the prime simply doesn’t offer enough of an advantage in every day shooting scenarios to justify the additional cost.

See the latest pricing for the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4S

However, if you are a prime shooter, value all the things that primes offer, then the 35mm 1.8S is incredibly sharp, nice and compact, well built and can create photos that are not possible with a zoom. I really enjoy mine, particularly when I was shooting travel photography abroad but for most people, who own the zoom, I’d say save your money and consider a different focal length, if you are looking to compliment your zoom with a prime.

So would I buy the prime again now that I own the zoom? Well yes I would, but that’s because of my particular style of shooting, where I often prefer to slow down, simplify and shooting with prime lenses allows me to do that. 35mm also happens to be one of my favourite focal lengths.

See the latest pricing for the Nikon Z 35mm 1.8S.

This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the site and allows me to keep producing independent, real-world photography content.

I bought the Z8 when I was still living in the Philippines, mainly shooting travel photography along with some street and candid work. I used it mostly with the 1.8 S series of primes, and at that point, the true benefits of the Z8 were somewhat wasted on me as I wasn’t really testing it to its limits. For more details see my full Nikon Z8 review.

Since moving to the Scottish Highlands in January, that’s changed completely.

The Z8 has taken over as my primary camera for a lot of my shooting, particularly landscapes and wildlife. It’s incredibly versatile and capable — offering great image quality for landscapes, autofocus that handles everything including wildlife, my favourite ergonomics of any camera when I want to get the shot with as little friction as possible, and build quality that inspires confidence in Scottish weather. With a few key accessories it’s just an incredible tool. Also see my guide to which filters you actually need for photography.

After taking it out into Scottish glens in the middle of winter and scouting wildlife locations locally, it dawned on me that this is the right camera for the job when things are demanding. When I have the Z8 with me, I’m not left wishing for another option.

Some people who own the Z8 will simply want — and be able to afford — the most expensive and absolute best lens for every situation, and there’s nothing wrong with that. The Z8 is a serious tool for serious photographers, and it can justify top-end glass.

But there’s also a point where a lens is more than good enough to produce professional-level results while saving a bit of money.

That’s the route I’ve personally taken with my Nikon Z8 lenses. Having moved countries and with a focus on settling my two children, I can’t always justify the most expensive glass. Childcare and other commitments come first, so I’ve spent a lot of time working out where I can get excellent performance while saving some money.

Where a subject is one of my core shooting scenarios, I’ll invest in the best I can afford. In other areas, I look for the best balance — lenses that do the job extremely well without paying for diminishing returns at the very top end.

These days in Scotland, I’m shooting far more landscapes and wildlife and much less travel. For those subjects, given the choice, I’d pick the Z8 nearly every time. I don’t use it as much for family or casual photography — for that, the size, weight, and feel of the Nikon Zf or my Fuji cameras make more sense.

By the end of this guide, I’ll show you the absolute best lenses for each type of shooting, but also where I’ve chosen to save money — and why — on lenses that still perform extremely well for the price.

Wide Angle Lenses for the Nikon Z8

I used to shoot wide angle lenses almost exclusively when I was working as a professional landscape photographer in the Outer Hebrides. I then moved away from them for a number of years, but since returning to Scotland, I’ve found myself using them more and more again.

The Scottish Highlands just suit wide angle photography. The ability to capture grand vistas with depth and drama is hard to ignore.

These days, my approach is a bit different. I’m more of a wander-and-discover photographer than someone who locks everything down on a tripod and waits for the light. But once I’ve found a location worth returning to, I’ll absolutely go back with a tripod, filters, and a more deliberate approach.

Best Wide-Angle Lens: NIKKOR Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S

If you want the absolute best wide angle lens for the Nikon Z system, this is it.

I used this lens extensively on the Z7 II, and the results were outstanding. It’s optically superb, very well corrected, and produces stunning files on high-resolution Z bodies — especially at ISO 64. Sharpness across the frame is excellent, and the overall rendering is about as good as it gets for a zoom of this type.

It’s also surprisingly light for an f/2.8 ultra-wide, and the build quality is exactly what you’d expect at this level — solid and confidence-inspiring.

If your priority is maximum image quality with no compromises, this is the lens to get.

That said, there are trade-offs.

It isn’t cheap, and for the way I shoot now, it’s a more specialist lens than it used to be for me. Even though it’s relatively light for what it is, it’s still noticeably larger than the alternative, which means it takes up more space in the bag for something I won’t use all the time.

For landscape work, f/2.8 also isn’t a major advantage in most situations, as I’m stopped down 99% of the time anyway (outside of astro work).

Then there’s the filter setup. You’re looking at 112mm filters or a dedicated system, which adds both cost and complexity. I’ve used the NiSi system before, and while it works well, it’s not something I particularly wanted to go back to.

Best Value Wide-Angle Lens: NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S

After considering the options, I ended up buying the Nikon Z 14–30mm f/4.

It’s still a very sharp lens, especially when stopped down for landscapes. The corners aren’t quite as good as the 14–24mm f/2.8, but across most of the frame it delivers excellent, professional-level results.

It also costs significantly less and is noticeably more compact and lighter, which makes a real difference. It takes up less room in my bag, and that means I’m far more likely to actually bring it with me.

For landscape work, f/4 is more than enough. I’m stopped down most of the time anyway, and importantly, this lens is still properly built for real-world use. It’s weather sealed, has a gasket at the mount, and includes a fluorine coating that helps shed water — all things that matter when you’re shooting in Scottish conditions.

One of the biggest advantages for me is filters. It takes standard 82mm filters, which are far more affordable and practical. I already owned a full set and was able to keep using them, rather than investing in a larger, more specialised system.

In real use, this lens is more than capable of producing beautiful landscape images at a professional level — and it does so while saving a significant amount in cost, weight, and size.

It’s not the absolute pinnacle of performance, but it doesn’t need to be. There are no major weaknesses here, and that’s what makes it such a strong choice.

The only real downside — and it’s minor — is the retractable design. When the lens is collapsed, you have to twist it into position before shooting. Nikon did this to keep the size down, and it works, but I do find it slightly irritating to have to “unlock” the lens each time.

That said, given the overall performance and value, it’s an easy compromise to live with.

Standard Zoom Lenses for the Nikon Z8

In Scotland, a standard zoom is my most used lens for general photography and landscapes. For most people, this is likely to be the lens that lives on their camera the majority of the time.

It needs to be optically excellent, cover a useful focal range, and ideally be weather sealed if you’re shooting outdoors. You’re also going to be carrying it a lot, so size and weight matter more than you might expect.

Best Overall Standard Zoom: NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S (and Mark II)

The best standard zoom for the Nikon Z system — and one used by a lot of professionals — is the 24–70mm f/2.8.

I owned the original version with my Z7 II, and it’s one of the best professional standard zooms I’ve ever used. It’s extremely sharp across the frame from 24–70mm, optically close to flawless, and delivers consistently excellent results.

The f/2.8 aperture makes it very flexible. You can shoot landscapes stopped down, then switch to portraits at the long end with strong subject separation. It also performs much better in low light than an f/4 zoom, which means you’re less likely to need to swap to a prime mid-shoot.

The focal range is practical, covering wide-angle shots at 24mm through to a useful short telephoto at 70mm. Build quality is excellent — solid, well balanced, and fully weather sealed — yet still relatively light compared to older DSLR equivalents.

The Mark II version improves things further with a new optical design, internal zoom (which helps with balance and weather resistance), and faster autofocus. I haven’t personally used the Mark II yet, but based on how good the original is, it’s safe to assume it’s an outstanding lens.

These aren’t cheap lenses, but if you want the best possible standard zoom for the Z8, this is it.

For photographers who rely on their gear professionally — wedding shooters, event photographers, or anyone needing reliability and performance in all conditions — this lens makes a lot of sense.

But for more general use, there’s a more balanced option.

Best Value Standard Zoom: NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S

My requirements for a general zoom here in the Scottish Highlands are fairly simple: it needs to be optically excellent, weather sealed, not too large or heavy, and justifiable in terms of price given my current situation.

That’s why I chose the 24–120mm f/4. For more details see my full Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S review.

In terms of size and weight, it’s about a perfect fit for the Nikon Z8. It feels substantial enough to match the ergonomics of the camera, but not so heavy that it becomes a burden. It balances extremely well when I’m out walking and exploring, and when mounted on my Peak Design Capture Clip, it still feels within what’s reasonable to carry without putting undue stress on the mount.

It’s a very well-balanced combination that just feels right in real use.

Optically, it’s very good. You get sharp images throughout most of the range, with the usual minor trade-offs you’d expect from a zoom that covers 24–120mm. It’s slightly softer at the long end, but still performs more than well enough in practice.

What makes it so useful is the range. It works as a genuine one-lens solution — from 24mm for wide landscapes through to 80–120mm where you can start isolating details. That flexibility matters when you’re out exploring and don’t want to keep changing lenses.

One thing that often gets overlooked is the minimum focusing distance of just 35cm. It’s genuinely useful for picking out details — flowers, textures, small elements in the landscape — and for general close-up work, it almost removes the need for a dedicated macro lens unless you’re specialising in it.

The f/4 aperture is also more usable than people sometimes assume. On a full-frame camera like the Z8, you still get a reasonable amount of subject separation at the longer focal lengths for portraits or family shots.

Build quality is solid, and like the rest of Nikon’s S-line lenses, it’s properly weather sealed. I’ve used it in wind-driven rain on the Z8 without concern.

This is the lens I use when I just want to head out, explore, and come back with strong images — and it hasn’t disappointed me.

If I could only keep one lens for the Z8, this would probably be it.

No, it’s not quite as sharp wide open as the 24–70mm f/2.8, but for the way I shoot — especially landscapes — I’m usually at f/5.6 or beyond anyway, where performance is genuinely excellent. It’s sharp where it matters, including in the corners at typical landscape apertures, and it easily resolves the full 45MP sensor.

And this is something I don’t often say about gear — but paired with the Z8, I realised on a walk last week that I simply love this combination.

It might not be the absolute best on paper, but it’s my favourite for its balance of image quality, focal range, size, weight, and build quality.

Best Telephoto Lens for Wildlife: NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR

I’ve wanted to get into wildlife photography for a long time, but time and location have never quite lined up until this year.

Part of the reason I bought the Nikon Z8 was because I knew it was capable of supporting that shift — but pairing it with the right lens wasn’t a straightforward decision.

In an ideal world, I’d own every top-tier wildlife lens. But in reality, the decision came down to what I could afford that would still do the job properly.

Would the 100–400mm give me enough reach?
Is the 180–600mm actually good enough?
Would one of the PF primes be worth the extra cost?

Like a lot of people, I kept coming back to the 180–600mm as the lens that could potentially do everything — if it performed well enough.

Having now used it extensively on both the Z8 and Z6 III here in Scotland, I can say it absolutely does and it’s a core part of my wildlife photography kit.

Optically, it’s excellent throughout most of the range, with a slight drop-off beyond 550mm — but even there, it still performs well in real-world use. What stands out is that I never feel like I’m compromising on image quality by using it, which is exactly what you want from a lens in this category.

The focal range is what really makes it. Going all the way to 600mm puts you firmly into proper wildlife territory, and combined with the Z8’s DX crop mode, you can effectively reach a 900mm field of view while still getting usable 20MP files.

That kind of reach changes what’s possible.

Compared to my NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S, the prime is a little sharper and significantly lighter — but for a zoom covering this range, the 180–600mm is still very manageable. I can carry it comfortably on a strap or by the tripod collar, and it fits easily into my Think Tank MindShift BackLight 36L alongside a second body and additional lenses.

In terms of handling, it’s a very well thought-out lens. The build quality feels solid and premium, even without the S-Line badge. You get all the controls you need — custom buttons, focus limiter, AF/MF switch — and crucially, it’s an internal zoom design, so the lens doesn’t extend or shift balance when zooming.

Autofocus is also strong. Paired with the Z8, it’s fast enough to track demanding subjects, including birds in flight.

And importantly, it’s one of the most accessible serious wildlife lenses available. It’s cheaper than the 100–400mm and significantly more affordable than the prime options, while still delivering the kind of performance most people actually need.

There are some downsides.

At f/6.3, it’s not a low-light lens, but the Z8’s sensor handles higher ISO well enough that it’s still usable at dawn and dusk. It’s also not an ideal match for the 1.4x teleconverter, where you start to see a noticeable drop in image quality, along with the expected loss of light.

But taken as a whole, for the price, performance, and flexibility it offers, I think the 180–600mm is hard to beat.

If you own a Z8 and want to get into wildlife photography, this is the first lens I’d seriously consider — and ultimately, the one I’d recommend buying.

Building a Wildlife Kit for the Nikon Z8

One of the strengths of the Nikon Z system is that it offers some of the best wildlife lens options available right now.

The NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR is a great-performing zoom and the lens I would recommend either as a one-lens solution or as the starting point for a wildlife kit. It gives you enough reach to take wildlife photography seriously without locking you into a fixed focal length.

From there, you can build a system around it.

A natural pairing is the NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S. This gives you better low-light performance, improved subject separation, and a much lighter option when you don’t need the full reach of the zoom.

Then, if you eventually want more reach — or plan to focus more heavily on bird photography — the NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S is the obvious addition, and one I’m personally planning to add in the future when funds allow.

There is another way to build a wildlife setup.

You could start with the NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S as a more general-purpose telephoto, then add a longer prime like the NIKKOR Z 600mm f/6.3 VR S or 800mm f/6.3 for extra reach.

That approach makes sense if you prioritise a lighter, more versatile starting point.

The reason I went with the first option is that it gives me a better balance for how I actually shoot.

• The 400mm f/4.5 gives me a lightweight, high-quality option with better low-light performance
• The 180–600mm gives me flexibility and enough reach for serious wildlife work
• And I still have a clear upgrade path to something like the 800mm f/6.3 later on

Importantly, I’m not left feeling short of reach while I work towards that next step.

Of course, the right setup depends on what you’re shooting.

But one thing is clear — with the Nikon Z8 and the Nikon Z system in general, you’re almost spoiled for choice when it comes to wildlife lenses.

And that’s before you even consider the more exotic options like the NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S or NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S, which represent the absolute pinnacle if money is no object.

Portrait / Prime Lenses for the Nikon Z8

If you make your living from shooting portraits, then you probably already know which lenses you want — and you may be considering the higher-end options like the NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.2 S or NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S.

But for most people using the Z8 — shooting family, friends, or general portraits — those lenses are hard to justify for the advantages they bring if you’re not making money from them.

Best Portrait Lens: NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S

The best portrait lens for the Nikon Z8 is the 85mm f/1.8 S. For more details see my full Nikon Z 85mm 1.8S review.

It’s not cheap, but if you want to create portraits with strong subject separation that your standard zoom simply can’t match, it’s absolutely worth it.

The lens is incredibly sharp, focuses quickly and accurately, and at f/1.8 on a full-frame sensor, gives you a really nice level of background blur. The bokeh is smooth, the rendering is pleasing, and overall it produces images that look more “professional” straight out of the camera.

It’s not the smallest prime — it’s a little long and narrow in design — but on the Z8 it balances well and feels comfortable to use.

For most people, this is the portrait lens to buy if you want to take your photos of people to the next level.

Best All-Round Prime: NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S

A more flexible and slightly cheaper alternative is the 50mm f/1.8 S. For more details see my full Nikon Z 50mm 1.8S review.

This is actually my favourite prime in the Nikon Z system. The focal length is more versatile than 85mm, the image quality is excellent, autofocus is quick and reliable, and it’s also smaller and lighter.

If you prefer your portraits to include a bit more context — showing more of the environment around your subject — then 50mm can be a better choice.

However, for tighter portraits, headshots, and anything where you want the most flattering look, it doesn’t quite match what the 85mm delivers. The 85mm just has that slightly more compressed, flattering perspective that tends to make people look their best.

Final Thoughts

The Nikon Z8 is one of the best cameras currently available, and it deserves great lenses. It also deserves to be set up properly which is why I have written an article on the best wildlife settings for the Nikon Z8.

But it’s very easy to fall into the trap of buying the most expensive option in every category and spending an absolute fortune.

I’ve taken a different approach.

I’m happy to spend more on the lenses I use the most — where the benefits are clear and actually make a difference to my photography. But if there’s a lens that gives me everything I need while saving a bit of money, I’ll choose that instead, even if it’s not the absolute best on paper.

And I think that’s the balance that makes the most sense for most people.

Allocate your budget based on how you actually shoot.

If you’re constantly shooting wide-angle landscapes, then by all means go for the NIKKOR Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S. If you want to take better portraits but only do it occasionally, then it probably doesn’t make sense to spend on something like the NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S when the NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S will give you most of the performance for much less money.

Like a lot of photographers, I’m not in a position to own every lens in the system — even if I’d like to.

So for me, building a Nikon Z kit is about choosing lenses that deliver the performance I need, at a price I can realistically justify.

And if you take the same approach, you’ll end up with a kit that not only performs well — but actually makes sense for the way you shoot.

As someone who has shot on every major camera system, in 2026 it’s the Nikon Z system that I believe offers the most well-rounded lens lineup available. This guide to the best Nikon Z lenses is based entirely on real use — I’ve owned every lens included here, along with others that didn’t make the cut.

This isn’t a standard listicle pointing you toward the most expensive lenses Nikon sells. Instead, it’s an experience-led look at which Nikon Z lenses actually make sense for different types of photography — from professional work, to everyday family photography.

You’ll find both primes and zooms here, along with honest trade-offs for each. The aim isn’t to crown a single “best of the best,” but to help you choose the right Nikon Z lens for how you actually shoot.

For a broader look at which Nikon Z cameras are the best, see my guide to the best Nikon Z camera for photography article you can also see full reviews of the Z8 , Z6III and Zf via the links.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps support the site.

When I moved back to Scotland earlier this year, I found myself in the same position that many Nikon Z shooters are in: deciding which lenses to buy in order to build a versatile, dependable kit that actually makes sense. With the Zf, Z6 III andZ8 in my bag, my priorities are landscape photography, Wildlife photography, as well as everyday and family work, and a system that can adapt to different types of shooting without constant compromise.

The lenses below are the ones I would start with today. They offer the best balance of versatility, performance and long-term value within the Nikon Z system — not because they’re perfect, but because they consistently deliver across real-world use.

Best Overall Lenses for the Nikon Z System

Nikon Z 24–70mm f/2.8 S

A 24–70mm lens is an essential part of almost any serious photographer’s kit, and especially so for professionals. The combination of wide-angle to short telephoto covers the most frequently used focal lengths, which is why investing properly in this range is almost always a sensible use of money.

I’ve owned and shot with both the Nikon Z 24–70mm f/4 and the 24–70mm f/2.8 S side by side back in 2021 while deciding between them. The f/4 version is a perfectly decent lens, but the f/2.8 is genuinely exceptional — and in my experience, clearly worth the premium. Nikon recently released the mark II version of the 24-70mm f/2.8 lens and I would have no hesitation buying either versionfor my Nikon Z kit.

What surprised me most was how manageable it is. For a professional-standard f/2.8 zoom, it’s relatively light, balances well on Nikon Z bodies, and never feels cumbersome in use. Optically, it’s excellent across the entire range — very sharp in the centre and right out to the corners from 24mm through to 70mm, with outstanding control of chromatic aberration, distortion, and flare.

The constant f/2.8 aperture is what really elevates this lens beyond being a pure landscape tool. It becomes a genuinely versatile everyday lens — equally comfortable shooting landscapes, family photos, documentary work, and professional assignments. That flexibility matters if you want one lens that can stay on your camera most of the time.

Yes, it costs more than the f/4 version and is slightly heavier, but in my experience those trade-offs are absolutely worth it. This is the standard zoom I have no hesitation in saying I would — and will — buy again as soon as I’m back in Scotland. It’s robust, weather-sealed, and built to cope with year-round use, including Scottish winter conditions on bodies like the Z8.

If you can only buy one lens to pair with your full-frame Nikon Z camera, this is the one I’d recommend without hesitation.

See the latest Price for the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 here

Nikon Z 14–30mm f/4 S

For landscape photography — especially in places like Scotland — a good wide-angle lens is virtually essential if you want to convey scale, space, and atmosphere. Within the Nikon Z system, the choice usually comes down to two lenses: the 14–24mm f/2.8 S and the 14–30mm f/4 S.

While the 14–24mm f/2.8 is the higher-performing lens on paper — slightly sharper overall and the better option for astrophotography — for pure landscape photography I’d recommend the 14–30mm f/4 S for most people.

The first reason is weight. At just 485g (1.07 lb), it’s considerably lighter than the f/2.8 version. As landscape photographers, we often find ourselves walking long distances to reach the right location or waiting out changing conditions, and weight genuinely matters over a full day in the field. The 14–30mm is also impressively compact for a full-frame ultra-wide, which makes it easy to pack and live with.

That compactness is important because, in my experience, a wide-angle lens — while essential — is rarely my primary lens. I tend to do the majority of my shooting on a 24–70mm, and I often find that 24mm is wide enough for much of my landscape work. When a wide-angle becomes a secondary lens rather than the main one, size and weight become far more important than maximum aperture.

Despite being an f/4 lens, the 14–30mm is still part of Nikon’s S-line, and it performs exactly as you’d expect. Centre sharpness is excellent, corners are very respectable even wide open, and for landscape use — where most of us are stopping down to f/8–f/13 — performance improves further.

Just as importantly, the 14–30mm accepts standard screw-in filters. That’s a significant real-world advantage over the 14–24mm f/2.8, which requires a specialist adapter for filters. If you regularly use ND or polarising filters, the 14–30mm is simply easier and more practical to work with in the field.

It also doesn’t hurt that the 14–30mm f/4 S is considerably cheaper than the 14–24mm f/2.8. Taken as a whole — weight, size, filter compatibility, cost, and real-world performance — it’s one of the most sensible wide-angle choices in the Nikon Z system for landscape photographers.

See the latest price for the Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 lens here

Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S

If there’s one prime lens that, for me, defines why the Nikon Z system genuinely understands photographers, it’s the 50mm f/1.8 S.

Most manufacturers treat their 50mm f/1.8 as a cheap entry-level lens — acceptable, but rarely inspiring. Nikon took a very different approach. Rather than creating a disposable “starter” lens, they made the 50mm f/1.8 S a system-defining optic, and it shows.

Optically, it’s outstanding. Sharp across the frame, beautifully corrected for chromatic aberrations and flare, and paired with fast, reliable autofocus. Build quality is excellent too, with proper weather sealing — all without forcing photographers into the size, weight, and cost penalties that come with f/1.2 lenses.

At f/1.8 on full frame, subject separation is still easily achievable, and the focal length itself is incredibly flexible. It works just as well for storytelling and documentary photography as it does for portraits, details, and low-light shooting. That versatility is what makes it so valuable.

For wedding and event photographers, it’s the perfect companion to the 24–70mm f/2.8, giving you that extra separation and visual impact when it matters most. At the same time, it’s an equally strong first prime for photographers new to the system — one that doesn’t feel like a compromise or a stepping stone.

Yes, it’s larger and more expensive than the usual plastic 50mm f/1.8 lenses we’ve been given in the past. But it sits in a completely different class. Even if you primarily shoot with zooms, this is the one prime that makes the most sense to add to your Nikon Z kit — and it’s worth every dollar.

See the full Nikon Z 50mm 1.8S review.

See the latest Price for the Nikon Z 50mm 1.8S here

Best Nikon Z Lenses for Professionals

When you’re shooting professionally, lenses stop being about specifications and start being about consistency and trust. You need autofocus that works without hesitation, handling that stays predictable under pressure, and image quality you can rely on across long days and varied conditions.

These are the Nikon Z lenses I’ve found to be the most dependable for professional work — lenses that do their job quietly and reliably, without drawing attention to themselves.

Nikon Z 24–70mm f/2.8 S

If there’s one lens that defines professional shooting on the Nikon Z system, it’s the 24–70mm f/2.8 S. This is the lens that lives on the camera most of the time, covering the majority of real-world assignments without compromise.

Autofocus is fast and confident, image quality is consistently excellent across the frame, and the constant f/2.8 aperture gives you flexibility as light and situations change. It’s also robust and properly weather-sealed — the kind of lens you can rely on when conditions aren’t ideal and you still need to deliver.

For professional work, this lens isn’t exciting — it’s reassuring. And that’s exactly what you want.

Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S

It’s a genuinely professional prime, not a budget add-on.

Jump to my full 50mm f/1.8 S breakdown above or read my full review.

Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S

The 85mm f/1.8 S comes into its own when you want professional-level portraits and the long end of a 24–70mm f/2.8 no longer quite delivers the separation or compression you’re looking for. While 70mm can work in many situations, there’s a clear step up in subject isolation and rendering once you move into true portrait focal lengths.

This lens offers excellent subject separation, pleasing rendering, and dependable autofocus with people — all in a package that’s manageable to carry and easy to work with over long shooting days. It’s fast enough for low-light work, accurate enough for professional use, and small enough that it doesn’t feel like a specialist tool you only reach for occasionally.

For portraits, weddings, and events, it’s a natural next step beyond a standard zoom. When you want images that feel more intentional and polished, the 85mm f/1.8 S is where the Nikon Z system really starts to shine.

If you need even more flexibility than a fixed 85mm can offer, the Nikon Z 70–200mm f/2.8 is widely regarded as one of the standout lenses in the Z lineup and provides the versatility that’s often required during wedding ceremonies and events. I’ve shot extensively with 70–200mm f/2.8 lenses across multiple systems over the years, but as I haven’t yet owned the Nikon Z version, I’m deliberately not including it as a formal recommendation here. I’ll update this guide once I’ve spent meaningful time using it in the field.

Here is my full Nikon Z 85mm 1.8S review.

See the latest price for the Nikon Z 85mm 1.8S lens here

Best Nikon Z Prime Lenses

One of the defining strengths of the Nikon Z system is the quality of its f/1.8 S-line prime lenses. Rather than treating them as budget options, Nikon designed these primes to deliver excellent optics, solid build quality, and reliable autofocus — lenses that feel like core tools rather than stepping stones.

Primes also encourage a different way of shooting. They’re lighter, more deliberate, and often better suited to storytelling, people-focused photography, and everyday use than zooms. Below are the Nikon Z primes I use most and recommend most often, each for slightly different reasons.

Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S

The 35mm f/1.8 S is one of the most versatile primes in the Nikon Z lineup and a focal length I regularly come back to for everyday photography.

It offers a natural balance between context and subject, making it ideal for storytelling, travel, and family photography. If you want a single prime that can stay on your camera for long stretches and adapt to a wide range of situations, this is often the easiest choice.

Read my full Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S review

See how the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S compares against the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S.

See the latest price for the Nikon Z 35mm 1.8S here

Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S

If you are only going to get one prime, the Nikon Z 50mm 1.8S should be pretty high up your list. See why, below:

Read my full Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S review

Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S

When you want more subject separation and a more deliberate look than a standard zoom can provide, the 85mm f/1.8 S is where the Nikon Z system really starts to shine.

It’s particularly well suited to portraits, family photography, and events, offering strong subject isolation without the size and weight penalties of faster f/1.2 lenses. For many photographers, it’s the logical next step after a 35mm or 50mm prime.

Read my full Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S review

I’ve compiled all of the Nikon Z prime lenses together in this section so you can easily compare them in one place. Check latest prices on Amazon →

Best Nikon Z Lenses for Wildlife Photography

One of the biggest reasons I chose the Nikon Z system as my primary wildlife photography setup here in Scotland is the strength of the lens lineup. Nikon has built one of the most complete and practical wildlife systems currently available, covering everything from lightweight handheld primes to flexible super-telephoto zooms.

Now that I’ve had much more time shooting wildlife here in Scotland — everything from garden birds to deer and birds of prey — I’ve been able to put Nikon’s wildlife lenses through proper real-world use rather than relying on first impressions.

Nikon Z 180–600mm f/5.6–6.3 VR

If I could only recommend one wildlife lens in the Nikon Z system for most photographers, it would be the Nikon Z 180–600mm f/5.6–6.3 VR.

It strikes an incredibly good balance between reach, image quality, flexibility and price. The zoom range is enormously useful for real wildlife photography where distances constantly change and you often have little control over the situation in front of you.

In use, the lens has genuinely impressed me. It’s sharp for a zoom covering this range, autofocus is quick and accurate, and despite its size, it remains surprisingly manageable for handheld shooting and carrying over longer walks. Nikon’s internal zoom design also helps the lens feel more balanced in use than many older super-telephoto zooms.

Even though I own wildlife prime lenses as well, the 180–600mm remains my most-used wildlife lens because of how adaptable it is. If I head out without knowing whether I’ll encounter small birds, deer, birds of prey or something else entirely, this is the lens I naturally reach for.

For wildlife photographers who want the best combination of flexibility, performance and value in the Nikon Z system, the 180–600mm is the standout choice.

See the latest price for the Nikon Z 180-60m lens here

The video below shows me using the Nikon Z 180-600mm in my local Scottish countryside.

Best Nikon Z Lenses for Portrait Photography

Portrait photography doesn’t require a huge range of lenses to do well. In practice, it’s more about focal length choice, rendering, and how comfortably a lens works with people.

Based on the Nikon Z lenses I’ve used extensively, these are the ones I’d recommend for portrait photography.

Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S

If you want classic portrait rendering with strong subject separation, the Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S is the standout choice in the Nikon Z system. It offers pleasing compression, reliable autofocus with people, and a level of isolation that a standard zoom simply can’t match.

It’s well suited to portraits, family photography, and events, delivering professional-looking results without the size and weight penalties of faster f/1.2 lenses.

Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S

For more environmental portraits and everyday people photography, the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S is an excellent alternative. It gives you more context, works well in tighter spaces, and still offers enough subject separation for natural-looking portraits.

Best Superzooms for the Nikon Z System

While professional-grade 24–70mm lenses are genuine workhorses, some photographers simply want a one-lens zoom solution that covers almost everything. These lenses are often a compromise in terms of absolute image quality and maximum aperture, but in the right situations they can make a lot of sense. The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4S is one of my most used lenses because it’s so flexible and gives up very little optically, even compared to the primes. I tested this extensively in a series of articles pitting the zoom against the primes.

Nikon Z 24–200mm f/4–6.3 VR

I bought the Nikon Z 24–200mm back in 2021 for exactly this purpose. I was using it on my Nikon Z7 II and wanted something light and flexible for local walks through woodland without carrying multiple lenses. I was genuinely — and pleasantly — surprised by how well it performed, even on the high-resolution sensor of the Z7 II.

It was reasonably sharp — certainly sharp enough for real-world photography unless you’re actively pixel-peeping. Autofocus was quick and reliable, and it’s weather sealed, which makes it a practical everyday option. It’s a fantastic all-in-one solution if you’re prepared to compromise on absolute sharpness and don’t mind increasing ISO as light levels drop.

As a travel lens in particular, especially when paired with something like the 50mm f/1.8 S for low-light work, I can easily see many photographers being very happy with the 24–200mm. Its small size, light weight, and huge focal range make it extremely convenient.

See the latest price for the Nikon Z 24-200mm lens here

Nikon Z 24–120mm f/4 S

The Nikon Z 24–120mm f/4 is the more premium superzoom option in the Z system. Optically, it offers noticeably better performance than the 24–200mm, along with the advantage of a constant f/4 aperture. For more details see my full Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S review.

I picked mine up as a kit lens with my Z8, and it performs very well in practice. At 120mm and f/4, it can even double as a capable portrait lens, particularly for candid and casual shots. Image quality is consistent across the range, and it feels very much like an S-line lens in use.

For me, the 24–120mm sits slightly between categories. It’s not as compact or lightweight as the 24–200mm, but it offers higher image quality and more consistent performance. As a one-lens solution, it suits photographers who prioritise image quality but want more focal-length flexibility than a 24–70mm can provide. It’s the lens I decided to stick with as my general purpose zoom.

See the latest price for the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4S here

Which one makes more sense?

As always, lens choice comes down to which compromises you’re willing to make. The 24–120mm f/4 suits photographers who value image quality and consistency, while the 24–200mm prioritises convenience, light weight, and maximum coverage.

Both are excellent options — just for very different types of shooting.

Best Nikon Z Lenses for Landscape Photography

For landscape photography, wide-angle lenses play a central role in how scenes are rendered — from scale and depth to edge detail and overall clarity. I’ve owned and shot extensively with both of Nikon’s key wide-angle options in the Z system, and while they target slightly different photographers, they’re both excellent in the right context.

Nikon Z 14–24mm f/2.8 S

If you want the absolute best wide-angle landscape lens in the Nikon Z system, the 14–24mm f/2.8 S is it.

Optically, it’s outstanding. It’s incredibly sharp right into the corners, extremely well corrected for distortion, chromatic aberrations, and flare, and impressively lightweight for a professional f/2.8 ultra-wide zoom. If maximum image quality is your priority — whether for large prints or simple pixel-peeping satisfaction — this is the lens to choose.

While f/2.8 is rarely used for traditional landscape photography, the faster aperture opens up the possibility of astrophotography at a very high level, which adds to its appeal if you want one wide-angle lens that can do it all. If a wide-angle lens is your primary landscape tool and you don’t mind the extra cost, size, weight, and the need for a filter adapter, the trade-offs are well worth it.

See the latest price for the Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 here

Nikon Z 14–30mm f/4 S

For most photographers, the 14–30mm f/4 S is the more sensible landscape choice — smaller, lighter, cheaper, and far more practical for filters. I go into the full reasoning earlier in the article.

Jump to my full 14–30mm f/4 S breakdown

See the latest price for the Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 here

Which one should you choose?

If you prioritise absolute image quality, plan to shoot astro, or rely heavily on a wide-angle lens for your landscape work, the 14–24mm f/2.8 S is the standout choice. If you value portability, cost, and practicality, the 14–30mm f/4 S will make far more sense for most people.

Both lenses are excellent — the right choice simply depends on how central wide-angle photography is to the way you shoot.

Final Thoughts

The Nikon Z system has reached a point where lens choice is less about finding good options and more about deciding which compromises make sense for the way you shoot. There are no bad lenses here — only different priorities.

This page isn’t intended to be a static “best of” list. My approach is to build it out over time as I continue to use the Nikon Z system more extensively, particularly now that I’m using it heavily in Scotland for landscapes, everyday shots and wildlife.. As I buy, use, and live with more lenses, I’ll add new insights, comparisons, and links to full reviews where it makes sense.

I only recommend lenses I’ve personally owned and used in real-world conditions. That means this guide may grow more slowly than others — but it will always be grounded in experience rather than speculation. If you’re building a Nikon Z kit and want honest, experience-led guidance rather than marketing-driven recommendations, this page will continue to evolve alongside the system itself.

I’ve now been using the Nikon Z8 alongside the Nikon Z6 III for months here in Scotland, as well as previously in the Philippines, and I continue to be impressed with both the camera and Nikon’s Z-mount lenses.

Since moving to Scotland, I’ve naturally spent more time shooting landscapes and wildlife, which has meant using more zoom lenses than I typically would for travel photography.

But when it comes to travel photography and creating images that actually stand out, my recommendations below remain exactly the same. I still believe simple, lightweight lens kits built around a couple of excellent lenses lead to stronger photography than carrying a huge bag of gear.

If you’re building a more complete Nikon system, see my best Nikon Z lenses guide.

So you’ve got your Z6 III — which I think is Nikon’s sweet spot for people who prioritise photography as I said in my in Z6III review. But with so many Z-mount lenses, it can be hard to figure out what you actually need to shoot the travel photos you want. If you are undecided between the Nikon Z6III and Z8 I compared them both. If you want to get the most out of your Z6III then I wrote a setup guide here.

For a broader look at how this camera compares within the system, see my guide to the best Nikon Z cameras for photography.

If you’re just starting out, it’s easy to fall into the trap of buying a massive bag full of glass. As you gain experience, you realise 2–3 quality lenses are all you really need — whether you’re shooting landscapes, city travel, or family life. I’ve also covered the best accessories for the Nikon Z6III here.

Looking to buy the photographer in your life a gift Share my Best Gifts for Photographers guide — it’s full of gear photographers actually love.

If you just want the lens picks, jump to the kit that fits how you shoot.

This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Some of the best photographers in history worked with one or two lenses. The point isn’t to cover every scenario — it’s to carry a kit you’ll actually take everywhere and know how to get the best out of. That’s the philosophy behind this article: Z6 III recommendations that pair well, stay light, and still deliver top-tier image quality. I’ve owned a lot of Nikon Z glass but for my personal kit, I have 4 lenses only. All primes, and all for specific jobs.

This is not a “list of every good lens”. It’s a set of 1-, 2- and 3-lens setups that balance versatility, quality, and practicality. If one lens doesn’t suit your style then swap where needed — the goal is to help you build a kit that works, without overloading you with too many choices. If you take nothing else from this article other than the idea that you don’t need to cover every possible angle, I’ll have done my job.

Travel Kit: Zoom Plus Prime for Flexibility

The simplest way to start: I know a lot of photographers who will travel with a standard zoom and one great prime. The zoom allows you a lot of flexibility and the reason this works so well on the Nikon Z6III is because, even at f/4, on the full frame sensor you can isolate subjects, work in less than ideal light and with the coverage offered by the zoom in this kit, shoot virtually any scenario.

Zoom: NIKKOR Z 24–120mm f/4 S — arguably the best one-lens travel friendly solution in the system. Sharp across the range, close-focus, great VR, and lighter than two separate pro zooms. If you want maximum simplicity, it can be your only lens. While it doesn’t offer quite the same range as the 24-200mm and it is noticeably heavier, what it does give you is better image quality and a constant f/4 aperture.

That makes it a much better choice in my opinion unless you’re willing to give those things up for even more coverage and less weight. It’s often available in a kit with the camera which is how I got mine.

Prime: Z 35mm f/1.8 S or Z 50mm f/1.8 S — pick your perspective. 35mm for storytelling and context; 50mm for a slightly tighter, classic look. While the 24-120mm is a very good lens and it can handle double duty shooting portraits and in low light, it is not ideal for those things. That’s why adding a really good, compact prime is such a great addition to any kit. Both of these primes will perform much better in low light and allow you to isolate subjects better, giving you the ability to create professional looking creamy background blur. If I had to pick, I’d go with the 50mm 1.8S as the slightly better lens, sharper in the centre wide-open than the 35mm 1.8 and at 50mm it is better at throwing backgrounds out of focus. If you want more detail about these lenses see my Nikon 35mm 1.8S vs Nikon 50mm 1.8S article.

Why this kit works: 24–120mm handles almost everything in good light. The 35/50 prime gives you clean low-light files and subject isolation.

I’ve linked this travel kit below. If you prefer more reach the NIKKOR Z 24–200mm f/4–6.3
is a single-lens solution with excellent portability. I owned one with my Nikon Z7II a few years ago and found it to be excellent for a superzoom but it comes with some compromises in image quality and aperture.

If you already know you prefer primes (I often do), there’s an even simpler way to travel — leave the zoom at home and commit to fast Z-mount primes.

Travel Kit: Prime-Only for the Purist

Back in my landscape-shooting days, I mainly used zooms for their sheer flexibility. But over the last few years, I’ve found myself gravitating toward primes. Part of that switch comes down to mindset. I used to think I had to cover every possible shooting scenario for fear of missing out on shots. The truth is, I often ended up using the same lens while the others stayed in my bag 90% of the time.

Now I accept that, yes, I’m going to miss the occasional shot with primes — but the payoff in image quality (I’m talking about rendering, not just sharpness), size, and weight is worth it. More than that, I prefer the way primes make me shoot. I can’t cover everything, but with a prime I learn that focal length intimately. I start to see how a scene will look before I even raise the camera, and I end up with a cohesive body of photos rather than a hodge-podge of random images.

For a two-lens travel kit, I like:

• Z 35mm f/1.8 S → Walkaround storytelling. Street, groups, everyday context. Fast AF, excellent rendering, weather sealing. 35mm is wide enough for landscape shots and can also be great for storytelling and contextual portraits. Nikon Z 35mm 1.8S review.
• Z 85mm f/1.8 S → Portraits and details with beautiful separation; still compact in the bag. This lens is another great S line performer, sharp wide open, with beautiful bokeh it gives the ability to create professional portraits, isolate details and add to any story you are trying to tell.

Both of the above primes are sharp, offer beautiful rendering, fast autofocus, and strong low-light performance. They create images you simply can’t get from a zoom — even a professional one. Together, they cover everything from wide-normal to short-telephoto in a lightweight setup that delivers professional-level image quality.

This two-lens setup is also one of the most common choices among professionals. When I travel, I usually have the 35mm f/1.8 S on my Z8 and the 85mm f/1.8 S on my Z6 III, and between them I can cover about 95% of what I shoot.

For broader coverage, I’ll sometimes take a three-lens setup, swapping things around depending on what I plan to shoot. If I’m in a city, working in tighter spaces, or want more landscape coverage, I’ll go with the Nikon 20mm f/1.8 S, 35mm f/1.8 S, and 85mm f/1.8 S. This combination lets me shoot landscapes, close-up street scenes, and market environments where there’s a lot of action and I want to be right in the middle of it. The 20mm also doubles nicely as an astrophotography lens — if you stay up later than I do.

If I’m expecting to shoot more people, my kit becomes the classic 35mm, 50mm, and 85mm trio. It gives me a storytelling lens (35mm), a versatile standard lens for environmental portraits or mid-range shots (50mm), and the 85mm for tighter portraits and detail work.

• Z 35mm f/1.8 S
• Z 50mm f/1.8 S
• Z 85mm f/1.8 S

Why this kit works: Prime-only travel forces you to slow down, pre-visualise, and make cleaner frames. You miss the odd shot — and come home with stronger photos.

I’ve linked these primes below for ease.

Closer to home? I’ve been quietly working on some personal projects this year, and what it’s made me realise is that the most meaningful photos I take aren’t from far-flung trips — they’re of my family as my daughters grow up. And since moving my mum here to live with us, seeing her and my children together — baking, painting, and bonding — has been something really special.

Family Kit: One Lens, One Perspective

For family shots, the last thing you want to be doing is swapping lenses or second-guessing which focal length is right for the moment. You’ll end up missing those little gestures that make or break family photos. Instead, I’d highly recommend choosing one lens, learning to shoot with it, and not worrying about covering every possible situation.
One lens keeps you focused on moments, not gear — and that leads to stronger photos that tell a more consistent story. Shooting this way lets you truly get the most out of the lens, and over time, it gives you a cohesive set of images to look back on in years to come.

When I’m taking pictures of my family, I don’t need to cover every scenario. My wife’s phone does snapshots. With the Z6 III I want standout images that capture emotion, interaction, and milestones — the ones I print and keep.

Pick one great lens and learn it deeply. For Nikon Z, that’s either the Z 35mm f/1.8 S (for a wider, more contextual feel) or the Z 50mm f/1.8 S (for a more intimate, flattering perspective). If you asked for my recommendation between the two, I’d say go with the 50mm f/1.8 S — it’s just that little bit more special, and family moments deserve to be special. I’ve linked my Nikon Z 50mm 1.8S lens review here.

Both are sharp, weather-sealed, focus quickly, and deliver professional-looking shallow depth of field that turns everyday moments into something timeless.

Why this kit works: One lens builds a coherent body of work and frees your head to focus on moments. Add a second lens only when you know exactly why.

Final thoughts

The Z6 III is ridiculously versatile, but you don’t need a bag full of lenses. Whether it’s a 24–120mm paired with a fast prime for travel, or one exceptional lens for family, keeping things simple usually leads to stronger photos.

I know there are a lot of great lenses in the Nikon Z system, and for some people, other options will work better — and that’s great. I write about what I actually use and where I can add value. If you want wildlife or specialist portrait advice, ask below as I have been shooting a lot more wildlife photography since moving to Scotland — I’m happy to help — but this article focuses on the travel setups I genuinely believe in and use myself.

The right kit isn’t about covering every scenario. It’s about choosing the lenses that make you want to pick up the camera, learning them deeply, and focusing on the moments that matter.

Building out your Nikon kit? Don’t miss these next:

• NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S Review
• NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S Review
• Nikon Z6 III vs Fujifilm X-T5