Why You Should Only Use Two Lenses For Landscape Photography

Why You Should Only Use Two Lenses For Landscape Photography
I know it sounds crazy, but I think you should throw away all of your other lenses but two. My thoughts on why you should only use two lenses for landscape photography are to simplify your shooting and make your photographs more thoughtful and though provoking. In this video I'll tell you why you should only use two lenses for landscape photography and I'll show you the two lenses I use.
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[@MahmoudYahyaoui]

1- Not promoting the most expensive lenses 2- Not recommending thousand of lenses 3- Straight to the point. Great video - subbed

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Thanks!

[@marcg3923]

70-200 is 1600$ so what the fuck are you talking about?

[@gregwoo3014]

is $3,000 car expensive?

[@timelord2222]

@@marcg3923 Canon 55-250 is $350

[@Mrcool202]

Great points on going from wide, wide wide to more focused subjects... that right where I am at with my interest in landscape shooting. Glad I am not going crazy.

[@danlightened]

Same here. The expansive vistas sort of look like picture perfect on the back of postcards. Need something different.

[@Rahulsmanral]

In total agreement! Picked up a camera from day 1 to shoot landscapes and spaces, and its always boiled down to a 16-35mm or a 70-300 /70-200 or a telephoto beyond 200mm, in case I need to super compress things. I always feel, elementally speaking, that in landscapes there really isn't much use of the 35mm-70mm focal length range because its so in between that it neither allows elimination & compression nor does it allow for expansive vistas or fitting things in. A 2 lens landscape setup is almost perfect 99% of the times, and beyond that, the only need you'll ever feel is to get in tighter and that's when you can make use of telephotos beyond 300mm (for really distant subjects, but mostly for compression and structural/texture/shape and form photos).

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Awesome!

[@danlightened]

I think that too but I've never heard anyone talk about it. I was thinking of getting the 17-40mm f/4L USM. It's half the cost of 16-35. Or do you think something like a 24mm f/2.8 would be better based just on image quality?

[@Rahulsmanral]

@@danlightened entirely depends on how you photograph or approach subjects/scenes man. a 24mm could be just as great as a 17-40 or 16-35mm. Of course, getting a 24mm would mean you don't get the versatility of a zoom with its focal range, however, using a prime has its own advantges and allure. It could allow your protfolio to have a consistent look and also enable you to master a focal length through and through over time. A 24 2.8 or 1.8 could especially be useful if you photogrpah nightscapes a lot given that it would let a good deal of light in.

[@danlightened]

@@Rahulsmanral I sorta know that. I'm just asking if the prime's image quality is substantially superior to the zooms.

[@jamesmlodynia8757]

When it comes to what lens you use for any subject of photography it depends on the subject your photographing, and how much of the subject you intend to capture, one other consideration is the distance from you and the subject. Wide angle lens work well in landscape photography, but with any lens you need to determine what basic focal length will work best for your subject. In my 15 years of digital photography l have used wide angle lenses to the 100-400mm zooms for landscapes, wildlife photography, air shows have been handled with the 100-400mm on a crop sensor body,my current camera is Fujifilm X-H2 with the 100-400mm lens. In the years that i photographed events, i used everything from a Pentax fisheye zoom to the Olympus 40-150mm F-2.8 on a Olympus OMD 1mkII. photographing events, i worked by myself, so i carried one full frame camera and one APSC from Pentax, with a selection of Pentax and Sigma glass both primes and zoom. I photographed events covering weddings,baptisms, birthday and family photos shoots, weddings took the most equipment and a flash. So getting back to landscapes, i travel to Maine, Cape Cod and other northern locations, i always bring two camera bodies and a variety of glass to cover wide angle to telephoto so I have every thing covered and can choose the best lens when I get to the location i will be photographing in.

[@simon_patterson]

I have the opposite problem - my ongoing challenge is to think *more* about my images and how I will photograph a scene, not less. For me, choosing which tool to use (ie lens selection) only comes *after* considering "what is the story here?", "how am I going to tell that story?" and "what parts of this scene would I need to exclude because they would distract the viewer from the story?". The "choosing which lens" part is easy once those things have been decided (because it is only a technical decision). So, for me at least, limiting myself to only two lenses would cause my lenses to distract me from photography rather than help me, because it would limit my ability to execute on the story I'm trying to communicate.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Interesting workflow! That’s cool though

[@43connor3]

I feel the same

[@oneeyedphotographer]

Simon Patterson I stand pretty much with you.

[@alang253]

I started with the typical path of ~50mm and other primes, graduated to standard zoom like 24-70. Now I use 16-36 and 70-200 equivalents for landscape. The UWA is tempting and takes discipline to monitor every thing in the frame. The 70-200 though I owned for a really long time I just didn't understand how to use it properly until recently. It is now my go to for most situations- especially when the lighting is crap (which is majority of the day TBH).

[@devinkobe6298]

InstaBlaster.

[@yuxima1245]

I tried to only use 35mm for two years, for normal shoot it’s totally fine but then I found out that sometimes 35mm is too wide to emphasize the theme of the photo. And now I realize that I need a 70-200mm telephoto lens. I think simplify your shooting process (as you mentioned in your video) not only helps you think about the composition of your photo, but also helps you realize what you really need and invest your money in the right place.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Totally agree with you! Wow, using one lens for two years is some serious dedication!

[@danlightened]

Feel the same way. Although, most landscape photographers seem to stick to expansive vistas. I too am interested in interesting things in a scene that catch my eye and looking for compositions everywhere.

[@terrygordon1045]

Sound advice - you taking control of the gear rather than the other way around. Have both types of lenses and can concur with what has been stated in this video. Great basic advice. Well Done!!

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

That’s it!

[@rl9802]

Thats exactly what I'm thinking too, great video thanks. I'm doing the 10-24mm and the 50-200mm fujifilm set for all my backpacking here in Wyoming.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice! Fujifilm is great. If I started over I’d go for them too

[@zvxcvxcz]

+David Johnston That Rokinon is a nice lens, I have it for my NX1. If I were just doing landscape... I think I could be down with two lenses. I like to do a number of things though, birding, macro, and landscape. If I was forced to two lenses... I guess I would take the Tamron 15-30mm and Sigma 180mm macro, ideally with Sigma's 1.4x converter for it that maintains AF. The Sigma 180mm is not the greatest birding lens by a long shot, but with the 1.4x it's actually pretty serviceable in that regard. That also gives 2 focal lengths for landscape, and I maintain my ability to do macros. The other setup I might take instead is, Laowa 15mm macro, and then one of my long lenses, maybe the Sigma 150-600 to be flexible. On the NX1, the 50-150mm f/2.8 is my go to lens for anything, the second lens is a tougher pick, the Rokinon 12 is a good option, but so is the Samsung 12-24, it's darker at f/4, but has stabilization and a more flexible focal range. I guess it depends on if I was anticipating doing any astrophotography, and whether or not I was bringing a tripod. I miss out on macro that way though, could take the Laowa 15 adapted with speedbooster to the NX1 instead. I'm usually ok with 3 lenses, 2 is usually just a tad too limiting for me.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Decisions are hard! What’s good here is that you know what you need and what you shoot. That’s awesome

[@n1k1george]

Good advice: I pared my own FF Nikon landscape kit to just a 18-35 3.5~4.5 and a 70-200 F/4. In most landscape work you don't need the fast apertures so save $$$ and weight at the same time. The only exception would be night sky shots where a fast wide prime would be preferred.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Awesome!

[@artsmodelstation9396]

I’ll probably get the 70-200 but I do portraits also and like how my 35 and 85 produces images.

[@fabianstrasser2719]

Absolutely true guy! I also started to collect expensive gear. I go for a 16-35 and a 70-200 when i`m in the field. Thats all i need! No macro, tilt-shift and so on...It`s not a bad thing to think you would probably lose one good shot by not carrying the xyz-lens with you. But its worse to carry around needles gear for your trip (as i did before resignation and re-thinking.of what could i use) and tire yourself due to the higher weight of that gear which makes you mad along a long day hike. Try to reduce you selected gear and specify on compositions you could achieve with this selection. Total agree!

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

🤙🏻

[@scrptwic]

I use a Sigma 18- 250 lens as i don't have a wider lens than 18mm the Sigma is 3.5 and i have used it indoor and for portrait , landscspe photography it is my go to lens.

[@LMoProVisualComm]

My lens lineup is all Nikon 20mm 1.8G 40mm 2.8 Macro 50mm 1.4G 85mm 1.8G 180mm 2.8 I used the 20mm for wide angle landscape. I also will flip the 85 vertical and take several shots and stitch them.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice!

[@BigBadLoneWolf]

I only own 2 lenses ,18 - 55 kit lens and 70 - 300 zoom, so this applies to me lmao, but i used a 300mm zoom on a crop sensor camera, to take a photo of a waterfall which was 1 mile away, and i am happy with the result

[@AmeriMutt76]

Thanks for the thoughts, I've always liked the advice to carry less. My daily walk around is usually the Rokinon 12mm, Fujinon 35mm F2, and either a 85mm or a 200mm, both fast prime.. Sometimes I'll replace either the 35mm or tele with a fast vintage 50/55/58mm lens and go for interesting detail bokeh shots, but I almost always stick to 3 or less primes for backpacking/hiking.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice! Thanks for watching!

[@paulfresh]

I started off with only a 70-200mm and sometimes it’s tuff but i learned a lot with only that lens stuck on my body. I just got a wide 16-35 and boy it open up the world for me lol

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Sorry it took a while to respond to this. It was put in the spam comments folder for some reason. Dude I remember when I first got my wide angle. My mind was blown and photography completely new again.

[@johncampbell335]

I just traded in 10 Canon lenses for two e-mount Zeiss primes. 25mm [landscapes, astro, architecture] and 85mm [portraits and stitching/panos]. It's very liberating having only two lenses.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

You're free! You're free!

[@johncampbell335]

Yes! I also tried the 'one lens' experiment you mentioned. I spent a solid year with a 50mm and learned a lot.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

That's awesome man!

[@sarahhuggins7217]

I got rid of 3 lens too....#minimalism

[@sarahhuggins7217]

@@johncampbell335 I will try that next time #onelenschallenge

[@stevestruthers6180]

What you say makes a lot of sense. I shoot with a Sony a6000 and use just two lenses: the 16-50mm kit lens and the 55-210mm telephoto, mainly because they are all I can afford right now and they work well for 90% of the shooting I do, including landscapes. I'm debating with myself about whether to get the Rokinon/Samyang 12mm lens or the 14mm version. The reason why I'm on the fence is because I'm not sure if the 12mm might be too wide, while the 14mm might be just right without being too wide.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

I use the Rokinon 12mm and I love how wide it is. I’d recommend it for sure!

[@danlightened]

What did you take? Both are a bit wide for my taste.

[@lukepo9535]

Hi David I shoot landscape with a Nikon D750 + Tamron 15-30 F2.8. I love this combo, but its heavy. This is the reason I carry them using a Spyder camera Holster.There are three things that I find annoying 1- The weight 2- The fact that the lens is curved, and require a costly attachment to use ND filters 3- Its easy to have high distorsion that makes the scenery compressed vertically if the camera is not perfectly levelled regards

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Interesting you’re the second person to tell me about that holster. May need to look into that!

[@HR-wd6cw]

I'm starting to feel that the fewer lesnses (and gear) you use, the better off you really are. So you're not bogged down with gear and choices. You have two lens choices and you have t owork with that (I can't do just one lens myself, but two: a WA and a standard zoom is usually enough for me, and then I just decide -- do I want to go wide, or zoom in?) I used to carry 4-6 lenses on trips but lately just two (and sometimes just one, a standard zoom, if I know for sure that I won't need to shoot WA and that my 24-120mm lens is enough). This has totally changed my workflow and has lead to better captures to be honest... less options means you focus more on the capturing/photography, and less on the gear.

[@richardkev3077]

I agree with simplification. I’ve seen people carry 15 pounds of lenses into the field. That’s great, if someone else is carrying them. And then there’s all the selection among the myriad lenses... I originally traveled with two lenses for my full frame DSLR: a 35-70 and an 80-200. Having problems and later becoming increasingly irritated with zooms, I switched to a 20mm and the 80-200. Eventually, I got rid of the zoom. Todah, If I travel with two lenses, it’s a 25 and a 135. If three, then it’s a 20, a 100 macro, and a 180/2.8. Even the three combined weigh less than a 70-200/2.8. I’ve found that I prefer working with primes. Doesn’t work for everyone, but it works for me.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

That’s awesome Richard!

[@keving7773]

Great video! I agree with your premise but would rather recommend a wide angle zoom like a 16-35 with the 70-200, as you probably know the “Zoom with your legs” recommendation doesn’t always apply so the flexibility can come in very handy specially when you go on long hikes to get the shot!!

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice! Thanks for watching!

[@neo_nawaratintarapanich6209]

Agree with you, Kavin.

[@renoholland7090]

Most of my landscape photography is close to my car. Since I have some physical limitations long walks and hiking are out of the question. I bring the lenses think I may need and they ride comfortably in the back seat. However I basically only use two: 12-24 and 18-140mm. The 55-300 that I thought I would use a lot gets a lot of rest these days.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

We all have that one lens that we thought we’d use that just collects dust 😂

[@fix4eyes]

Agree completely. I used to carry 4-5 lenses. Never again. I challenged myself to take 2 and a APSC body. (Sigma 16mm and sony 24-105) I got an amazing increase in creativity. Great advice. And also you get to your destination much less tired. 👍👍

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Haha true! Thanks for watching!

[@VellaCharles]

First off, you're quite right, travel and landscape photography that photographers don't need a battery of lenses. Light, light, light is the way to go. Two years ago, I happened to holiday for a few days on the Island of Malta , a lesson learned . Malta is a hot place, the city where streets are narrow that go up and down. This 75+ year old retired from commercial/Industrial and advertising photography, but now my photography is to have some fun. I decided to spend a whole day in their capital city, just doing street photography and architecture, actually it wasn't a whole day as planned. Nikon D700 FX (Full Frame) very heavy, Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8., Nikon 20-35mm f/2.8, backpack and some filters, totaling a lot of weight. Know your place you're travelling to and keep photo equipment on a diet. So Mr. Johnston, your advice still stands, lighten up the backpack , enjoy the scenery and concentrate on composition. I'm from the old school, that a photographer always have to have a back up. After that trip, the old school thinking went out the window. Thank you for sharing your ideas, and for all the great ideas from the commenters.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Couldn’t have said it better myself!

[@beatmanbeat]

Are you talking about crop body or full frame? 12mm is ultra wide on full frame.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Good question. The 12mm is what I use on a crop but something like a 16-24 would be good for a full frame. Heck you could even go crazy and use the 12mm as an ultra wide on the full frame

[@edwarddow8196]

Ahh, OK. I saw Sony and assumed full frame. 12mm would be pretty extreme FF. I've been thinking along the same lines, 16-35 and 70-200 full frame. I'm just getting into mirrorless, Fuji, and thinking about just a 14mm and 50-230 (lightweight, cheap and sharp) for my minimalist setup.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Edward Dow I went lightweight a few years back and have never regretted it!

[@oneeyedphotographer]

David Johnston I think that one lacks the coverage.

[@fabianstrasser2719]

David Johnston The lenght of your journey determines the amount of gear you are feeling confident to carry around with you all day. Sometimes I choose my OM-D with the 12-40 2.8 and I`m ready for a all day long trip.

[@artbyjes]

I watched despite the title (only because it came up randomly as I drank my morning coffee). I tend to dislike titles that tell people what they should do. I almost never do those things ;) . So, when I switched to Sony about a year ago now, I found my bag changed too, as I got the most often used lenses first. Made me really evaluate what I needed when. While I have a wide angle lens for the Sony, haven't taken it on a shoot in quite some time. I came to a similar conclusion, for different reasons, but my bag is now a 70-300 and 50mm. It works for me. And I think that's the point. There is no right or wrong bag, except based solely on whether it does or doesn't work for the way you shoot. It's a personal thing man.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Thanks for the comment!

[@tomcooke6670]

For landscape telephoto I plan to use a 70 300 f4 canon . What's your thoughts thanks tom

[@DadBodDrumming]

I use 2 lenses and I found them via trial and error. I use an 18mm and a 105mm .. Both give me amazing photos and allow a different perspective on the same subject.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

If that works for you, keep doing it man!

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Get a free copy of my ebook, The Landscape Photography Handbook, here: www.davidjohnstonart.com/ 👆🏻

[@exploringsoutheastarizona2167]

14mm & 70-300mm(occasionally use 50 mm(1:8) mostly for lightning @ night)

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Exploring Southeast Arizona all solid options for sure. Nicely done with the 50mm at night! I love Arizona by the way.

[@jayakrishnakumar2712]

What about Nikon 18-140mm

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

jayakrishna kumar that lens could be used for wide shots in between 18-24mm for sure. That’s a really good travel lens or a do everything lens

[@JakeGleim]

@David Johnston - Great advice. I personally only use 2 lenses as well. Nikkor 20mm F1.8 and a Tamron 85mm f1.8. The only downside is maxed aperture is f16 which is generally fine. Congrats on hitting 2K, I can tell you have been putting your Think Media training to use :)

[@waynegroves7706]

I have sigma 18 - 300 and a tampon 10- 24 on a Pentax k5 lls. What do you recommend?

[@Woodenarrows]

That's me, give me more than 2 options and I can't make a decision :-) Right now I'm working with a 14mm prime and a 14-150 zoom (M43 so FF=28 and 28-300) although on occasion I do carry a 45mm (FF=90mm) prime. The zoom lets me eliminate carrying more lenses.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

I'm with you! Keep it simple or I'm overwhelmed with options.

[@CaptTerrific]

I only need my 250mm and 600mm lenses for landscape! Granted these are on 8x10

[@stuartsmith4723]

Want some pro tips for landscape photography? Then go here now: HootLand.xyz

[@taivan1398]

I'm using a 6D Canon with 24-105L and 70-200L F4 non IS for doing landscape photography and they are great for me

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

That’s awesome!

[@rholdphoto]

I am headed to Australia to shoot for a month. Packing a Phase One DF/IQ150 and a Schneider 35 ls/br, 80/2.8, and a 210/4. You have some good points in your video. I agree on owning your craft, I also think that taking time to learn what your lenses are best for will help further.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

True true

[@weddingphotographer5858]

Actually on a long trip to national parks, 70-200 focal is not enough, I would recommend the 70-400 for more reach if needed, or 100-400. They are excellent lenses. I'm happy with my Laowa 12mm 2.8, it fits both on my Canon and Sony E bodies.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Thanks for watching!

[@Twobarpsi]

Good info! Subscribed!

[@martinjn2920]

Just take what you feel you need for the shoot you are about to go, there is no right or wrong, most landscape photographers will take a wide angle and telephoto zooms, some may take a 'standard' lens (prime or zoom) to fill the gap. I don't know many landscape photographers who take much more as it has to be carried once you leave the car. What gear you take really depends on what your plans are and what you are going to shoot.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

I can’t disagree that there is no right or wrong

[@jsc3417]

For canon full frame: 24-70, 70-200 (f4, the f2.8 is too heavy)

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice

[@adedotunajibade]

Exactly!!!

[@eastwind3550]

THANK YOU.

[@MiguelRozsas]

I agree. I do the same, for the same reason: Simplify my gear, traveling light and enjoying the trip are a must. I use a Fujinon 10mm prime and a 70-200mm too!

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice! You like your Fuji?

[@MiguelRozsas]

David Johnston yes! I have a X-T2 and I love it!

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

I need to look more closely into those. I've only heard good things.

[@natanaelportillo2401]

I shoot Nikon D750 with a 28-300mm 3.5F-5.6F and use it for all my photography. I carry a 50mm 1.8D for low light situations. Simplifying gear makes it easier to think through a shot. When i was taking classes, i only shot with a 50mm. Frankly thats when i was the most creative. The statement of gear doesnt make the photo is so true. In those photos classes in college we were given the challenge of creating a set of 5 pictures using equipment that would not exceed $100. Try that challenge! Its really enlightening and really opens up your mind. We were able to use any post processing we wanted but needed to take the initial photo (negative) with in the $100. I made a pin hole camera from a baby food can. Got some really cool shots!

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

That’s an awesome challenge man! I might just attempt that! Thanks!

[@michaelparks6863]

I used to use the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L exclusively. Six months ago, I bought the Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 VC G2. I love that lens! I've also added the Tamron 45mm and 85mm f/1.8 VC lenses. My other Canon zooms are more expensive, but I really love these Tamron lenses with VC.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Cool!

[@mrsusan893]

I've got two lenses for my fujifilm X-T2. They are the 10-24mm f4 and the 50-140mm f2.8. Solid rig, I'm never disappointed when I go out and shoot.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice! How do you like that camera? I always hear great things

[@amithanuradha2874]

Great video. I also had the same problem. but what happens when it comes to 35mm or 50mm frame? with the 12mm it will be too small. with telephoto its going to be too close.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

I haven’t had that problem and it could just be a style thing

[@briandecasa5444]

I use the a6500 for landscape shots and I mix it up with a laowa 9mm (12mm equiv) and Sony 85 1.8 (127mm equiv) and it's absolutely meets my needs

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

That’s awesome!

[@steveegbert7429]

It depends on the story you want to tell. Do you want to compress distance, wide vista, intimate detail with blurred background? All these can be "landscape". Shoot what you want and don't limit your creativity with what someone says you can or cannot shoot with. Their style may not be yours. I shoot with anything from 12 to 400 mm, it just depends on what you are trying to convey. Often I will shoot the same location with multiple lenses getting totally different outcomes. Don't box yourself in.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Really good thoughts Steve! Thanks for the comment.

[@neilcole3406]

Wise words!

[@Stop_Elitists_Wars]

There are Pro Photographers using only Apple & Android _'PHONES'_ Fact. Their Photos are fantastic & they Print Large too.

[@Narsuitus]

Interesting video. I prefer using a medium format camera for landscape photography. I also prefer using only one lens for landscape photography -- a 65mm f/5.6 wide-angle on a 6x9cm medium format rangefinder. When I shoot landscapes with a small format digital camera, I prefer using the following three lenses: 1. Rokinon 12mm f/2 or Zeiss Touit 12mm f/2.8 wide-angle 2. Fujinon 16-55mm f/2.8 weather resistant zoom 3. Adapted Nikon 105mm f/2.8 macro telephoto

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Right on!

[@stefanhansen5882]

Inspired by you and others regarding simplifying, I have been shooting 16mm exclusively (well, 97 % of all shots) on my last two hikes. It is liberating and makes you think and see differently.

[@stefanhansen5882]

16mm on a Fujifilm X-T4 crop sensor camera.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice! I'd love to try that X-T4 sometime.

[@stefanhansen5882]

@@DavidJohnstonPhoto It's dynamite!

[@smalltalk.productions9977]

insightful and helpful. thank you for the effort and the sharing. thumbs up.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Thanks man!

[@ChrisThe1]

I use a 11-24, 35, 50, 135. There are all kinds of vistas, and they require different focal lengths.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Everyone has different styles and preferences my friend 🤙🏻

[@ChrisThe1]

I couldn't agree more. If it works, go for it.

[@fabianstrasser2719]

Nice to have that 11-24 but i would rather go for a lighter 16-35 & 70-200 combination with a sturdy tripod instead. Everybody has its own style -true !

[@nairbyad7188]

your point is valid and worth following. i often leave the house with just one lens and you know what? it is frequently just the 'right one'! when you only have one focal length, you are scanning your world with that in mind! i certainly agree that if you are going to take 2 lenses, leave the nifty 50 at home. i only take it (actually a 45 Tamron that i bought after selling my sharper, but inferior in color & microcontrast Sigma ART 50) when i have no idea what i might see, want flexibility and don't want to carry only a camera. if i don't mind carrying a small bag, i'll take a DX (D500) & FX (D600) with a 3rd lens, giving me 6 effective focal lengths! typically a 24 Sigma ART, 45, 105 macro and a flash with cable for off camera use.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

That’s a good setup of lenses! I will usually only take a 50 if I know of a specific pano or art shot that I want. Every other shoot I’ll only take a 12mm and 70-200

[@lionelthompson998]

Nair Byad 1

[@shadda]

I sunk a ton of money into APS-C lenses and then convinced myself to move to FF when my friend wanted to sell me his A7R3 for $1000. Now, I mainly use a sigma 24-70mm 2.8, a 70-300 tamron, and one or two vintage primes. But I feel guilty if I don't bring at least a couple of my nicer crop lenses haha.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Hahaha I feel you

[@123413sid]

To point out what others have already said. 12mm and 70-200mm has way more focal options then a lot of large kits. I use a 15mm, 20mm, 58mm, 105mm and 300mm. I am still more limited then your setup. Using primes will make you think about composition more than a large zoom. Get the setup that works best for you and your type of shooting. Some people can only use a 35mm and 50mm. Everyone is different.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Good points, Dave.

[@AS-xg4tx]

I think it all comes down to style and focus regarding lenses. I use a 50 mm f/1.8 as my general lense as I can adapt by moving myself as needed for general outside photos. I used that lens even as a university newspaper reporter without a flash to do my assignments when everyone else was using medium zooms and powerful on camera flash. My ambient light shots were my signature that captured details and separated the subject from the background better. As for my landscape and nature I do long exposure to make a fantasy scene that's also my style. For that I also use my 50 mm and also a 35 mm, at least when I still used film. With my new Canon EOS T7 I have the kit 18-55 mm to learn with on an APS-C sensor. I plan to buy conversion adapters to allow me to use m Canon FD and Pentax K mount 35 mm film camera lenses on my DSLR. We all have our individual styles. Mine dont fit into just two lenses, I prefer to have more options as I like to experiment and take a variety of shots. I'm happy your style fits within your two lenses.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

That’s fair! Good points

[@adeelcyril3339]

Superb video! You make a strong position on your statement! And i have to agree with you. Aspiring photographers get hung onto equipment excessively and lose focus on what’s in front of them. Work with what you’ve got a refine your style to the direction that appeals to you. Thank u again. Forget the haters. Keep up the awesome content!!!

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Thank you very much!

[@jaspercaelan4998]

I use 24-105 and a 100-400. In general I'm not a fan of wide angles, the stretched edges and distortions just make the image look odd. I think it's a bit of an instagram fad like those crazy HDR images were a couple of years ago.

[@66marlinmike]

18-70 and 70-210 on an APS-C crop sometimes a 75-300 which is lighter than the 70-210 beercan I take 2 bodies which saves changing lenses. For 35mm film 35-70f3.5 macro and a vivitar series 1 70-210 f3.5 again 2 bodies a srt303b and a x500.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Not a bad plan!

[@franka6515]

Tele + wide angle is my go-to equipment for the field. But I also put a 50mm f/1.x prime in there too for coverage in between because it lets me take flower close-ups and low-light indoor shots. And there are times when that 50mm helped me get just the right landscape shot too. Cheers.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

That's a really unique set-up, but I like the creativity in your lens usage!

[@danlightened]

Also if you're travelling, the 50 is conspicuous enough to shoot back at the hotel or locals.

[@cool4fam99]

excellent advice.....keep it simple....is a good thing. i think same for post processing....was getting overwhelmed by PS and lum masks etc. very helpful to me.!

[@tobereed]

I use a 24-70 and 70-200 but I want a rokinon 14 sp for milky way

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

The Rokinon 14 is a good one

[@lmball]

Totally agree with you, I used to bring my Sigma 10-20/4-5.6 and Sony 70-400 SSM with my A77II. Perfectly suits my almost all situations.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Right on

[@Fotogoscar]

What a timing. As a newby, just got back from weekend getaway at Blue Ridge Mountains (Asheville) . I had kit lens and 50mm on my crop sensor a6000. I didn't think of using my 55-210mm or Tcon-17x. I think the 50mm gave me the approx 75mm. Thanks for the tips.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Awesome! I hope you got some great shots from the Blue Ridge Mountains. I've spent a good amount of time there.

[@sarahhuggins7217]

Thanks I only shoot with 2 lens 24-70 &100-400mm for two reasons weight and simplicity..I like to travel light I do the same for wildlife

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Absolutely! Travel light and you can get to more locations

[@Clouder77]

I use the 16-35mm GM and the 100-400mm GM for my landscape photos.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice! Those can work!

[@njrtech]

Chris Cloud I have same setup! It's perfect. I was not using my 70-200 nearly as often as the 100-400 gm. It's an incredible lens. The 16-35GM is also amazing

[@Clouder77]

My lens kit is rounded out with a Zeiss 55mm 1.8 and Sony 85mm 1.8 for my gimbal and low light situations when I can't use flash or want to blur out the background.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nicely donw

[@yoonhakim5979]

I think so

[@ramg8965]

Hi Sir, I will be using camcorders for video and mirrorless for photography. Can you tell me the best cheapest setup for best quality landscape photography..Also do you have a course for beginners ?

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Here are all of my courses: www.davidjohnstonart.com/landscape-photography-courses The best camera is the one you’re using. Invest in the education before you get a camera

[@michelattieh4346]

For the 70-200, is that a full frame lens? So your focal length is actually longer, is that a crop sensor lens?

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Yes I know

[@victorpablo4636]

I agree on the recommendation! I am recently discovering using a 200mm lens (35mm equivalent) for landscapes and I am enjoying it. I want to ask 1) do you carry two camera bodies or are you alternating the two lenses on one body, and 2) all things being equal (use of tripod, etc.), which lenses are sharpest for wide angle, and is it better to shoot with full frame or even medium format for landscape. Thanks and great video.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice! Thanks for watching!

[@thesaint1517]

Good explanation and suggestion on simplifying your lens selection. I sold most of my Nikon equipment except my D750 with Nikkor 28-300mm. I just bought the Sony A7iii with the 24-105 to cut down on weight and minimize the amount of lenses. I definitely want to buy the sony 70-200 f4 to use in instances where I will not have to carry it in my bag too long. Planning a trip to various cities in Europe and I will be taking only the 24-105 instead of 3 lenses that always accompanied me but I can no longer carry because of age and back problems. I just subscribed.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

You will love the lighter feel. That’s a really nice setup too. Have fun in Europe!

[@Westlake]

Agree. 2 lenses are enough. (2 zooms) A wide angle zoom and a long telephoto zoom, both good glass ;)

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Never leave home without them!

[@PanagiotisEqui]

Totally Agree!!!!!

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Yeahhh!

[@stevelink21]

An interesting video and some good points, David! As a Fujifilm X-System landscape and product photographer, my travel kit usually consists of the Fujinon XF16-55 and XF55-200...two lenses yes, but arguably “an infinite” number of lenses, because of the available focal length range. That said, I also sometimes omit the telephoto zoom for an XF23 if I want to travel lighter, or doing “street” work. FYI, I also have the Rokinon 8mm f/2.8 Fish-eye for special effects, but don’t use it too often because of the unique perspective distortion, and that the optics, while quite good, aren’t up to Fujinon XF standards. One other essential piece of gear for any landscape photographer is a solid, stable tripod!! I use a Leofoto LN254-CT carbon fiber tripod for the Fujifilm X-Pro2 and Fujinon lenses, and it’s quite a nice tripod for that and certainly any mirrorless or smaller DSLR kit! With a maximum payload of 22lbs, it includes a nice panoramic head, plus each control/lever/knob is a different texture and/or shape. This eliminates the chance of making unintentional adjustments in low light...quite an ingenious design! Thanks again.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

I honestly think the tripod is the most underrated piece of gear photographers can invest in. It’s vital! Thanks for the comment!

[@stevelink21]

David Johnston Thanks, David! Yes, I firmly believe (pardon the pun) that a good tripod is necessary to obtain the maximum sharpness and detail rendition that one’s Camera/lens combo is capable of!! I use it 99.9% of the time...and for that other.1%, I can use the convertible Monopod leg. Of course, many folks rely on the IOS or IBIS systems of their lens or camera respectively, but IMHO it is simply not a substitute for a good tripod.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Totally agree. I’d rather rely on the tripod than hope the IOS or IBIS does its job

[@myroadtours6147]

I've some what moved on to more wildlife photography but back when I was dedicated to landscapes, I used the Nikon 28-70mm 2.8 and the Nikon 14-24mm 2.8. I had a 70-200mm VRII 2.8 but could count on one hand how many times I used it in the field. It ended up being my go to lens for our kids sports. Now days, like I said, I've taken up wildlife and I only use one lens, a Nikon 200-500mm 5.6. That lens stays mounted to my D500 and I occasionally swap in a 1.4X TC. My D800 is now mated with a 24-120 MM F4 which is my walk around/travel lens. This replaced my Nikon B700 but i still take it with me as a back up...its a small lightweight camera anyways.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice!

[@soruhoru]

70-200 is not enough a lot of times. So I use Fuji 8-16, 50-140, 100-400 for landscape. I use 100-400 the most now.

[@robertgarbacz3904]

What camera is that? Apsc

[@sarahhaleyphotography]

Hello! I 100% agree with the idea of simplifying my lens kit. I just purchased a sony a7iii for wedding photography but also enjoy shooting landscapes and adventure photography. I am looking for a good wide lens that isn't too expensive or heavy. I have a 28-75 tamron lens so something that is between a 16mm to a 24mm lens would be perfect. Do you have any you could recommend? Thank you!

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

The Sony 12-24 f4 100%

[@udoderunformige1250]

I'm planning to get a camera with a 18-135 mm lens as a first one. Due to the APS-C sensor it means it's basically equivalent to about a 27-200 mm lens. That covers a wide range and if I want to go more wide-angle in the future, I spotted a Sigma 8-16 mm lens...

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

That Sigma is a GREAT lens!

[@udoderunformige1250]

I hope so! With those two, I'd cover anything from 12 to 200 mm FF equivalent, which should be enough for... I don't know, 80-90% of all shots, at least. They might be not as sharp as primes (especially the 18-135, since it's "just" a 200 bucks kit lens *but* it's weatherproof! That's a rare one), but it should be definitely enough for a start. And I want to travel with as less gear as possible, so that I maybe can throw an extra water bottle or other stuff in my backback.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Your back will thank you for traveling lighter!

[@Mahatma618]

Did anyone get what two lenses he refered to?

[@paulsehstedt6275]

My daily kit is full frame and three primes 21/1.8,50/1.5 and 75/1.8. For landscape I add a 80-200/4 and leave the 75 back home. For one summer I was limited to a 35/2 and a 135/2.8 on an analog camera. That was great and fun too. So your point of view has been common to me for many years.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Awesome! Yeah I love limiting my lens selection. I feel like it forces me to think differently and more creatively

[@paulsehstedt6275]

You're totally right! www.flickr.com/photos/132265564@N02/ Keep up the good work!

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

👍

[@Muse392]

paul sehstedt ,

[@villageblunder4787]

Quite like the 100mm macro as it dual purpose. And a lot lighter and cheaper than a 70 to 200. But yes, simplify.

[@HikeordieTV]

Thanks for the advice mate. I currently only shoot with two lenses very similar to what you suggested (mostly due to having to carry them for days to a location) but I agree that there is a kind of art form in the simplicity.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Thanks for watching! Yeah I like a simple setup. Keeps things less complicated and more thoughtful!

[@HikeordieTV]

No, thank you for making the video. Haha. Nice one. I kind of think of it as something similar to overcooking footage by doing every pan, pull-focus and technique known to man when sometimes a shot just needs to be on a tripod and allowed to breathe. On another note, I've been looking at those Rokinon lenses for a while. Good to hear you rate it. I might have to pick one up sometime soon. Thanks mate.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

I love my Roki lens!

[@ronburkhardt6378]

The late Galen Rowell (you youngsters may have to Google him) once said most of his (fantastic) landscapes could have been taken with a 24mm and a good 80-200mm. It is indeed all about the light.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

I'm a little embarrassed that I will have to Google Galen Rowell... 🤦‍♂️

[@DanijelTurina973]

I mostly shoot landscapes with my iPhone. Shoot dozens of raw files and stitch a panorama. Assemble and process in Lightroom. It's been working so well, I use my proper camera only for macro. Examples: photos.app.goo.gl/hb9YTWGUkyivST4MA photos.app.goo.gl/QB2tMei5GYogGxHPA and one with the Sony for comparison: photos.app.goo.gl/MuQ1vtfPYT2ieFgQ6

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Cool!

[@nairbyad7188]

love my Rokinon 12, too! sold my zooms for primes. a real challenge wouldn't allow a zoom! when I visit real mountains that are miles away, I take my only zoom, a 150-600. so, it totally depends on where your going. get your butt in the gym so you can backpack it all!

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Haha nice! Yeah I love that lens!

[@nairbyad7188]

www.flickr.com/photos/bgeorgeday/35948727580/in/album-72157684389492074/

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Love it man!

[@iczemi]

True. I got the Canon EFM 11-22 mm and EFM 18-150 mm.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice

[@jcradford]

Strangely - I have the exact same two lenses in my small bag for A7RII or A6300 ... totally agree with KISS and weight at 74 years old ... bu5 periodically swap the 12mm for a Batis 25mm f2, or JUST carry a 85mm f1.8 for people shots. Meanwhile for “general” travels or sports where I have no idea what’s coming, I bring ONE rig ... the bridge RX10iii and filters/Gorillapod, with built in 25-600+ mm ( assuming I don’t intend 40” ++ prints ... or I shoot multiple blends for high-res and wide.)

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Nice! That's a smart setup

[@railman301]

I have the same 70-200 on my Sony a6000 but with the crop sensor seems to be very close like a 100|300. Have you seen that too and have you tried that lens on a Ff camera.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

You’re correct. The crop basically turns it into a 100-300

[@oneeyedphotographer]

Bonkers You can't choose the lens, or recommend one, without reference to the camera. 12mm on MFT is vastly different from 12mm on a Nikon D850. The approach should be first, determine the scene. Then decide how to obtain that coverage, it might be one shot with the lens that best covers the scene, it might be a succession of images to combine later with a computer. My preferred camera is a 5Ds, none of my preferred lenses zooms or is a standard prime.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Agreed the approach should be first. I have a separate video on that concept. But, you do have to choose a lens eventually! Thanks for watching and the thoughts! 5ds is a solid camera

[@WMedl]

David did mention the camera! For MFT the equivalent lens would be a 6 mm of which there may be some available to be adapted to the MFT body! But from 7mm on there are different wide angle MFT lenses and it is up to You to decide which suits You best! You must not strictly obey to numbers, it is better to understand the meaning behind!

[@joefrancisuvf]

3'55" in case you're in a hurry

[@gwen9642]

3:55

[@williamconnell6541]

Totally agree with the two lens theory, i use canon 17-40 for wide shots and the 70-200 f/4 for weight mainly, i had the 70- 200 f/2.8 and that was a magic lens but not for hiking with.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

It’s a heavy lens to hike with for sure. Thanks for watching!

[@danlightened]

Those are the exact lenses I wanna get. Does the 70-200 f/4 perform well under low light?

[@njrtech]

100-400 is my preference over 70-200. Let's me tackle landscape and wildlife. Also, the 16-35 of course

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Hey man is you’re shoot wildlife too something like a 100-400 is a no brainer. Nice!

[@jtepsr]

do i assume that the 35mm-70mm gap is not a problem. if i have a 16-35mm f.4 and 70-200mm f4 len.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

I’ve honestly only taken one landscape photo ever in the 35-70 gap. One photo in hundreds of thousands is irrelevant.

[@chantal7]

Funny you’ve mentioned these two lenses. I use a crop sensor camera and I use the sigma 10-20mm and canon 70-200 F4. Carried those ones for many many years, picked up another lens just recently though but those two are so awesome to have.. wide angle and zoom. 👍

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Right on!

[@deborahbalcanoff6335]

I shoot with Lumix GH4 and will be getting the G9. I use my 12-35(24-70)and 14-150(28-300). I am looking for a slightly wider lens but for right now I make do

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

Deborah, this Rokinon wide angle might work with your setup. It's compatible with Panasonic Lumix cameras and is the wide angle I use: amzn.to/2Hhmua0

[@deborahbalcanoff6335]

Thanks I will look into it! Your videos are very helpful

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

I'm just glad I can be of some help!

[@markharris5771]

My favourite camera is my Zorki 4K, which coincidentally, at £50 including lens and P&P, is my cheapest camera by a massive margin. I have one lens for it, a Jupiter 8, and absolutely no intention whatsoever of buying another. It makes me think and it makes me move when I’m somewhere I can use my mobility scooter. For the longest time I only had a 75mm for my Bronica, which again translates to around 50mm the same as my Jupiter. Restrictions do help you improve your photography there’s no doubt. However, when I’m shooting digital I’m shooting with the intent of creating prints for a local charity to sell. Due to a health condition I never know when, or if, I can return to a place if I don’t have the right lens with me. My digital landscape prints tend to start at A3+ and upwards from there, and I'm a big believer in the old adage of filling my frame. Both my crop tool and easel are purely for print dimensions, and I’m not sure I would be able to do this limited to two lenses.

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

That’s awesome that you make prints for a charity. And with a health condition! Good for you man. Need more people like you!

[@markharris5771]

David Johnston Thank you, but it’s a very special charity and I owe it much more than it owes me. It’s amazing how many very special people are out there, doing far more than I’m capable of.

[@michaels8597]

Currently using the Pentax 28-105,and i also have a 50MM Pentax,and a Minolta 80-200 with an adaptor..I have some leftover Olympus and Sony glass,but not currently using those systems..i only have ONE Canon wide lens/Canon body for my film shooting,and that's all i use...i do not bother with cameras that require more than one battery daily(unless it;s shooting over 1500-3000 shots),have only one card slot,dont have IBIS,and dont shoot well in camera in low light....

[@DavidJohnstonPhoto]

If that system works for you that's awesome! I would work on low light shooting though. You can get some amazing images during low light hours.

[@michaels8597]

My camera is a beast with low light..I always shoot at night,and even if i cannot see the subject myself,most of the time,the camera can light it and make it happen..That's one of the reasons I bought it..