Assumptions:
* Versatility is Key: The trio needs to cover a wide range of landscape scenarios, from expansive vistas to intimate details.
* Image Quality Matters: These lenses prioritize sharpness, contrast, and minimal distortion.
* Modern Performance: The recommendations lean toward newer designs that leverage advancements in lens technology.
Here's a well-rounded trio:
1. Ultra-Wide Angle Zoom (for Dramatic Vistas and Foreground Interest):
* FX (Full Frame):
* High-End: Nikon NIKKOR Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S: This is often considered the king of ultra-wide zooms for Nikon Z. It's incredibly sharp, has excellent corner performance, minimal distortion (especially considering its range), and a constant f/2.8 aperture which is amazing for low-light and astrophotography. It's expensive but delivers.
* Mid-Range: Nikon NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S: Lighter, more compact, and more affordable than the 14-24mm. Still very sharp, especially in the center, and offers a slightly longer reach. The f/4 aperture is less ideal for low light but still usable.
* Budget: Samyang/Rokinon/Irix 14mm f/2.8 (Manual Focus): A good, affordable way to get an ultra-wide perspective. Image quality is decent, but expect some distortion and softness in the corners, especially wide open. Manual focus only.
* Alternative: Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN Art (for Z mount): Provides excellent image quality rivaling the Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 S but at a lower price point. A fantastic choice.
* DX (Crop Sensor):
* Tokina AT-X 11-20mm f/2.8 PRO DX: A solid performer with a fast aperture, good sharpness, and reasonable price. Offers a useful zoom range for DX shooters.
* Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM: A very popular choice for DX shooters.
* Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR: A budget-friendly option that's lightweight and offers vibration reduction (VR). Image quality is good, especially stopped down.
2. Standard Zoom (for Versatility and Everyday Shooting):
* FX (Full Frame):
* High-End: Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S: The gold standard for standard zooms on Z mount. Razor-sharp, fast aperture, excellent build quality.
* Mid-Range: Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S: More compact, lighter, and more affordable than the f/2.8 version. Still very sharp and offers excellent image quality. A great value.
* Alternative: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR: While an F-mount lens (requires the FTZ adapter for Z cameras), it offers a wider zoom range than the 24-70mm options. Image quality is good, and the VR is useful.
* Budget: Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 G2 (for F-mount with FTZ): Excellent value, sharp, and offers vibration compensation.
* DX (Crop Sensor):
* Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM: A very popular and highly regarded standard zoom for DX. Sharp, relatively fast aperture, and offers optical stabilization (OS).
* Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II VC: Similar to the Sigma, but with Vibration Compensation (VC) for sharper handheld shots.
* Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR: A premium DX standard zoom with a wider zoom range and a variable aperture. Excellent image quality.
3. Telephoto Zoom (for Compression, Distant Subjects, and Mountainscapes):
* FX (Full Frame):
* High-End: Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S: Incredibly sharp, fast aperture, excellent VR, and top-notch build quality. Expensive but worth it if you need the best.
* Mid-Range: Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 VR: A good balance of reach, image quality, and price. Lightweight and compact.
* Budget: Tamron 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD (for Z mount): A lightweight and affordable option with decent image quality.
* Alternative (F-mount with FTZ): Tamron or Sigma 150-600mm (various versions): If you need extreme reach for wildlife or distant landscapes, these are excellent options.
* DX (Crop Sensor):
* Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR: A lightweight and affordable telephoto zoom with vibration reduction. Good image quality for the price.
* Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR: Another popular and affordable option.
* For serious reach (though larger and more expensive, requiring a tripod more often): F-mount 70-300mm lenses (see FX suggestions), adapted to DX. The crop factor will increase the effective focal length.
Key Considerations and Alternatives:
* Prime Lenses: If you prioritize image quality and low-light performance above all else, consider a trio of prime lenses like a 20mm, 35mm, and 85mm. This will likely be more expensive than zoom options but may offer better image quality.
* Filters: Don't forget to budget for filters, especially a polarizer and neutral density (ND) filters, for landscape photography.
* Tripod: A sturdy tripod is essential for landscape photography, especially when using slower shutter speeds or telephoto lenses.
* Used Lenses: Consider buying used lenses to save money. Reputable dealers often offer warranties.
* FTZ Adapter (for Z cameras using F-mount lenses): If you own F-mount lenses and are switching to a Z-mount camera, you'll need the FTZ adapter.
Specific Recommendations Based on Budget:
* Budget-Conscious:
* DX: Tokina 11-20mm f/2.8, Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8, Nikon 70-300mm AF-P VR
* FX: Samyang 14mm f/2.8 (manual focus), Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 G2 (F-mount with FTZ), Tamron 70-300mm Di III RXD (for Z mount)
* Mid-Range:
* DX: Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5, Nikon 16-80mm f/2.8-4 VR, Nikon 70-300mm AF-P VR
* FX: Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S, Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S, Nikon Z 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 VR
* High-End:
* DX: (Adapt FX lenses listed below with limitations)
* FX: Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S, Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S, Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S
Final Thoughts:
The best lens trio for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the type of landscapes you shoot most often, and your desired image quality. Research the lenses carefully, read reviews, and try them out if possible before making a purchase. Good luck!