Wide Angle Lens for Nikon d5100, any suggestions?
I'm really hoping the photography community can help me out. I've decided to invest in a Nikon d5100, but I'm really into architectural photography and landscapes. I've heard that a wide angle would really help capture all the scenery. I just don't know that much about lens… And I'm still confused, what's an af or dx? What's a mounting type? I would truly appreciate all the great help.
Tokina makes a fantastic 12-24mm. There are 2 versions, so watch out. Both are optically identical, but one includes a built in motor for the low-end Nikon bodies like the D5100.
See it here:
http://www.adorama.com/...2NKAF.html
I have the older model, and it is spectacular! Tokina is easily the best non-Nikon lens producer!
The focal lengths you need to shoot wide angle shots like you describe would call for an AF-S 10-24 mm super wide angle lens. Some things you will find helpful when shooting indoor architectural shots are a tripod, remote shutter release and a hot shoe two-axis bubble spirit level
All Nikkor lenses use the same mount.
AF = auto-focus
DX = cropped sensor
So, as you can see they have nothing to do with one another.
The D5100 is an entry level dSLR. To use the auto-focus feature, you will need to buy AF-S or AF-I Nikkor lenses. If you are willing to manually focus lenses on your camera, you can buy the older AF Nikkor lenses. They can be used in the auto-focus mode if you ever upgrade to a $1, 000 plus Nikon dSLR like the D90 or D7000 or better
Your Nikon D5100 is considered a DX- format camera. It will accept all FX and DX lenses (it's a nikon f-mount) listed on Nikon's website. However, the D5100 also lacks an autofocus motor, so only lenses with the "AF-S" in its name will autofocus with your camera. For example, the AFS 50mm f/1.4G will autofocus, while the AF 50mm f/1.4D will not. Other third party lenses also make lenses that will fit your camera, but always look for a "built in focus motor in lens", or else it will not autofocus. To be sure, its wise to call the company and ask.
As for a wide-angle lens, the least expensive option that will autofocus on your body is the Sigma 10-20mm f/4.-5.6: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...EX_DC.html
Nikon also makes a wide angle lens, but it's much more expensive: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/..._AF_S.html
The wider the wide angle lens, the more pronounced the curvature of normally straight lines. If you are concerned with keeping straight lines straight get this special lens, made with the architect in mind.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...ikkor.html
As for those letters, see this.
http://imaging.nikon.com/...ossary.htm
Mount? If you buy a Nikon camera, always buy a Nikon lens. If you can't afford that, get a cheaper third-party brand lens that has a Nikon mount. It's that simple.