Beginner's help for choosing the right lens(es)

Atrom1810 · 10-07-2019, 02:17 AM

Hello there!

I am going to buy a K-70 in the near future, and I am a bit unsure which lens(es) I should get with it. I am really into landscape and night/low light photography.

I was considering the 18-135 as Kit to have a general purpose lens, and to become more used to taking photos with a DSLR, since it will be my first one.

Is it a good choice for night scenes aswell?

I would appreciate any recommendation, if this lens would be good enough as a starter or if I should get another one, or maybe a second lens with it.

Thanks in advance!

Cheers

Sandy Hancock · 10-07-2019, 02:21 AM - **2 Likes**

The 18-135 will be an absolutely brilliant companion to the K-70. I can not recommend it highly enough to someone starting on their photography journey.

swanlefitte · 10-07-2019, 02:54 AM

Well for landscape you want lots of the scene in focus so a small fstop isn't important but for low light a small fstop let's in more light. A tripod will let you keep the camera stable so you can let more light in over a longer exposure. The 18-135 and a tripod might be the way to go but tripods are harder to carry. Everything is a trade-off.

Pelto · 10-07-2019, 03:35 AM

You could also consider the Sigma 17-50mm , it's very sharp and you get f2.8 vs f3.5 on the Pentax, wich is better in low light situations. It's my favorit walk around lens on my K-70.

Sandy Hancock · 10-07-2019, 03:45 AM

Originally posted by Pelto

You could also consider the Sigma 17-50mm , it's very sharp and you get f2.8 vs f3.5 on the Pentax, wich is better in low light situations. It's my favorit walk around lens on my K-70.

I had a Sigma 17-50/2.8 for a while, and a DA* 16-50/2.8 for years after that. Both excellent lenses, but much bigger, heavier and more expensive than the DA 18-135/3.5-5.6

Don't forget the OP is a relative beginner....

**Des** · 10-07-2019, 03:51 AM - **1 Like**

Welcome to PF.

Originally posted by Sandy Hancock

The 18-135 will be an absolutely brilliant companion to the K-70. I can not recommend it highly enough to someone starting on their photography journey.

+1. And it's a great buy bundled with a camera.

Sure you can take night shots with it, provided you use a tripod. Here's an example. (18-135 + KP)

After you have used this for a while you will have a better idea of what your next lens purchase should be.

**roberrl** · 10-07-2019, 03:57 AM - **1 Like**

+1 for the 18-135. It's decent performer optically and great value for money. After you've used it for a while you will know if you need something longer for birding, something wider for landscapes or something faster for low light. Even after you buy other lenses you may want to keep this as a convenient walk-around lens which will cover most bases.
BTW the low light capability of the K70 means you may not need faster lenses - and you may find that denoise software will give as much benefit as a faster lens.

BaJa · 10-07-2019, 04:30 AM - **1 Like**

As a walk-around lens the 18 - 135 is usually on my K3. For more specialised use I have several other lenses. As you probably know you can spend a few euros on a manual K mount lens to 1000s of euros for a DA560mm.

Spend time with the 18-135 then you will have a good idea of what lens(es) your style of photography requires, but beware as lens buying can become addictive.😊

veato · 10-07-2019, 04:40 AM

Originally posted by Atrom1810

I was considering the 18-135 as Kit to have a general purpose lens, and to become more used to taking photos with a DSLR

Do this. Or maybe get the 16-85. As you start to take more photos you'll be able to identify the kind of lenses to fit your needs.

**Sir Nameless** · 10-07-2019, 04:58 AM

Another vote for the 18-135. I've had my K50 for...4 years or so now. I've bought and sold a few other lenses, and right now I have another zoom and two primes. But when I go hiking, the 18-135 is the one mounted when I leave home, and often is the only one I carry. It's a great all-arounder, very flexible, and a great way to work on your vision. Also, a great value in a kit bundle, IMO.

Atrom1810 · 10-07-2019, 05:08 AM - **2 Likes**

Thanks for the advice guys!

So, I'll definitely buy the Camera with the 18-135 as Kit lens. A local store here is selling it pretty cheap.

I wanted to stay with a maximum of 2 lenses at the beginning, since you already mentioned that buying lenses can become addictive.

Just got to figure out which lens I should get for taking some nice night sky images, but I will take it easy, since it is my first "real" camera.

**aslyfox** · 10-07-2019, 05:18 AM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by Atrom1810

Hello there!

I am going to buy a K-70 in the near future, and I am a bit unsure which lens(es) I should get with it. I am really into landscape and night/low light photography.

Welcome

If I am not too late, I would urge the OP to take a look at these charts:

The Pentax Camera Lens Compatibility Chart

Pentax K-Mount Lenses Explained: The differences between various Pentax lens series

lots of good information on the Pentax Camera Bodies and lenses

_________________

the OP also might want to go up to " Lenses " and look at the in depth reviews and user reviews as well

here is the one for the 18-135

Quote:

Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 Review
Introduction
Announced in 2010, the Pentax DA 18-135 WR lens was a highly anticipated lens that has since then proven to be a Pentax favorite. Because of its compact and weather sealed construction, this lens has enjoyed immense popularity, especially when considered in conjunction with the many weather resistant cameras offered by Pentax as part of a bundled kit (more on the bundles later in this review).

Read more at: Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 Review - Introduction | PentaxForums.com Reviews

Quote:

Description:
The SMC Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR is a new prosumer walkaround lens from Pentax. The lens currently has an MSRP of $499.95.

This lens covers a wide zoom range and features Pentax's latest lens technology, including the Quick-Shift focus system, SP (Super Protect) coating, and a DC motor for the SDM focusing system. When this lens auto-focuses, the external focusing ring does not move, allowing for comfortable holding and fine manual adjustment on the fly as well as for excellent AF speed. The lens also features an aspherical element, internal focusing, and extra-low dispersion element, and weather sealing to compliment the weather sealing of the K-5. The aperture blades are rounded to help render a very smooth bokeh. Finally, the lens hood also features a filter window for easy use of CPL filters.

Read more at: https://www.pentaxforums.com/lensreviews/SMC-Pentax-DA-18-135mm-F3.5-5.6-ED-...#ixzz61fecbSEb

Atrom1810 · 10-07-2019, 05:32 AM

Originally posted by aslyfox

Welcome

If I am not too late, I would urge the OP to take a look at these charts:

The Pentax Camera Lens Compatibility Chart

Pentax K-Mount Lenses Explained: The differences between various Pentax lens series

lots of good information on the Pentax Camera Bodies and lenses

_________________

the OP also might want to go up to " Lenses " and look at the in depth reviews and user reviews as well

here is the one for the 18-135

Read more at: Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 Review - Introduction | PentaxForums.com Reviews

Read more at: SMC Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR Reviews - DA Zoom Lenses - Pentax Lens Reviews & Lens Database

Thank you very much aslyfox! Definitely will have a look at that

**aslyfox** · 10-07-2019, 05:55 AM

You are welcomed

lots of information and friendly folks here at the forums

____________________________

just ran across a thread that might be of interest to the OP and others

DA 18-135 WR, Show us what it can do - PentaxForums.com

_________________________________________________

don't forget the current contests after 10 posts this month you get a chance, 100 posts this month you get into the grand prize raffle

bdery · 10-07-2019, 06:05 AM - **3 Likes**

Originally posted by veato

Do this. Or maybe get the 16-85. As you start to take more photos you'll be able to identify the kind of lenses to fit your needs.

I erspect the 18-135 and think it's a fine choice, but I too prefer the 16-85. The wider angle will be useful for landscapes, it's generally a bit sharper than the 18-135, although it's also larger.

Originally posted by Atrom1810

I wanted to stay with a maximum of 2 lenses at the beginning, since you already mentioned that buying lenses can become addictive.

Don't get a lens just because you want two lenses, but by all means if you have a specific purpose in mind get the lens for that

Originally posted by Atrom1810

Just got to figure out which lens I should get for taking some nice night sky images, but I will take it easy, since it is my first "real" camera.

For night skies, you'll be better off with a decent tripod than a second lens. Once you're sure you wish for a second lens, if you want sky panoramas, something wide like the DA21 Limited would be a good choice. Or one of the very wide lenses available from third-party manufacturers like Irix, Laowa, Samyang. Or, if you find a stash of money somewhere, look at the 11-18mm, an amazing lens for what you have in mind.

10-07-2019, 02:17 AM	#1
Atrom1810 New Member Join Date: Oct 2019 Posts: 6	Beginner's help for choosing the right lens(es) Hello there! I am going to buy a K-70 in the near future, and I am a bit unsure which lens(es) I should get with it. I am really into landscape and night/low light photography. I was considering the 18-135 as Kit to have a general purpose lens, and to become more used to taking photos with a DSLR, since it will be my first one. Is it a good choice for night scenes aswell? I would appreciate any recommendation, if this lens would be good enough as a starter or if I should get another one, or maybe a second lens with it. Thanks in advance! Cheers

10-07-2019, 05:18 AM - 1 Like	#12
aslyfox Seeker of Knowledge Join Date: Aug 2016 Location: Topeka, Kansas Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 24,581	Originally posted by Atrom1810 Hello there! I am going to buy a K-70 in the near future, and I am a bit unsure which lens(es) I should get with it. I am really into landscape and night/low light photography. Welcome If I am not too late, I would urge the OP to take a look at these charts: The Pentax Camera Lens Compatibility Chart Pentax K-Mount Lenses Explained: The differences between various Pentax lens series lots of good information on the Pentax Camera Bodies and lenses _________________ the OP also might want to go up to " Lenses " and look at the in depth reviews and user reviews as well here is the one for the 18-135 Quote: Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 Review Introduction Announced in 2010, the Pentax DA 18-135 WR lens was a highly anticipated lens that has since then proven to be a Pentax favorite. Because of its compact and weather sealed construction, this lens has enjoyed immense popularity, especially when considered in conjunction with the many weather resistant cameras offered by Pentax as part of a bundled kit (more on the bundles later in this review). Read more at: Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 Review - Introduction \| PentaxForums.com Reviews Quote: Description: The SMC Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR is a new prosumer walkaround lens from Pentax. The lens currently has an MSRP of $499.95. This lens covers a wide zoom range and features Pentax's latest lens technology, including the Quick-Shift focus system, SP (Super Protect) coating, and a DC motor for the SDM focusing system. When this lens auto-focuses, the external focusing ring does not move, allowing for comfortable holding and fine manual adjustment on the fly as well as for excellent AF speed. The lens also features an aspherical element, internal focusing, and extra-low dispersion element, and weather sealing to compliment the weather sealing of the K-5. The aperture blades are rounded to help render a very smooth bokeh. Finally, the lens hood also features a filter window for easy use of CPL filters. Read more at: https://www.pentaxforums.com/lensreviews/SMC-Pentax-DA-18-135mm-F3.5-5.6-ED-...#ixzz61fecbSEb Last edited by aslyfox; 10-07-2019 at 05:31 AM.

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
Help on choosing the right lens for my Pentax camera?	scarletshamir	Pentax SLR Lens Discussion	18	07-04-2017 01:57 PM
Need help choosing the right lense	Lacota	Troubleshooting and Beginner Help	6	05-27-2013 09:47 PM
ES vs. ES II	Stevopedia	Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras	24	07-12-2009 05:49 PM
Pentax ES and ES II ads from the 70s	Nesster	Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras	6	03-15-2009 06:25 PM
Pls help with choosing the right lens	odessit	Pentax SLR Lens Discussion	8	08-07-2008 07:58 PM

10-07-2019, 02:21 AM - 2 Likes	#2
Sandy Hancock Moderator Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: Adelaide Hills, South Australia Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 11,272	The 18-135 will be an absolutely brilliant companion to the K-70. I can not recommend it highly enough to someone starting on their photography journey.

10-07-2019, 02:54 AM	#3
swanlefitte Pentaxian Join Date: May 2015 Location: Minneapolis Photos: Gallery Posts: 4,068	Well for landscape you want lots of the scene in focus so a small fstop isn't important but for low light a small fstop let's in more light. A tripod will let you keep the camera stable so you can let more light in over a longer exposure. The 18-135 and a tripod might be the way to go but tripods are harder to carry. Everything is a trade-off.

10-07-2019, 03:35 AM	#4
Pelto Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2017 Location: West Denmark Posts: 226	You could also consider the Sigma 17-50mm , it's very sharp and you get f2.8 vs f3.5 on the Pentax, wich is better in low light situations. It's my favorit walk around lens on my K-70.

10-07-2019, 03:45 AM	#5
Sandy Hancock Moderator Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: Adelaide Hills, South Australia Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 11,272	Originally posted by Pelto You could also consider the Sigma 17-50mm , it's very sharp and you get f2.8 vs f3.5 on the Pentax, wich is better in low light situations. It's my favorit walk around lens on my K-70. I had a Sigma 17-50/2.8 for a while, and a DA* 16-50/2.8 for years after that. Both excellent lenses, but much bigger, heavier and more expensive than the DA 18-135/3.5-5.6 Don't forget the OP is a relative beginner....

10-07-2019, 03:51 AM - 1 Like	#6
Des Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2014 Location: Victoria Australia Photos: Albums Posts: 6,423	Welcome to PF. Originally posted by Sandy Hancock The 18-135 will be an absolutely brilliant companion to the K-70. I can not recommend it highly enough to someone starting on their photography journey. +1. And it's a great buy bundled with a camera. Sure you can take night shots with it, provided you use a tripod. Here's an example. (18-135 + KP) After you have used this for a while you will have a better idea of what your next lens purchase should be.

10-07-2019, 03:57 AM - 1 Like	#7
roberrl Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Oxford, UK Photos: Gallery Posts: 345	+1 for the 18-135. It's decent performer optically and great value for money. After you've used it for a while you will know if you need something longer for birding, something wider for landscapes or something faster for low light. Even after you buy other lenses you may want to keep this as a convenient walk-around lens which will cover most bases. BTW the low light capability of the K70 means you may not need faster lenses - and you may find that denoise software will give as much benefit as a faster lens.

10-07-2019, 04:30 AM - 1 Like	#8
BaJa New Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Cambridge, UK Photos: Gallery Posts: 1	As a walk-around lens the 18 - 135 is usually on my K3. For more specialised use I have several other lenses. As you probably know you can spend a few euros on a manual K mount lens to 1000s of euros for a DA560mm. Spend time with the 18-135 then you will have a good idea of what lens(es) your style of photography requires, but beware as lens buying can become addictive.😊

10-07-2019, 04:40 AM	#9
veato Veteran Member Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: Nottingham Posts: 543	Originally posted by Atrom1810 I was considering the 18-135 as Kit to have a general purpose lens, and to become more used to taking photos with a DSLR Do this. Or maybe get the 16-85. As you start to take more photos you'll be able to identify the kind of lenses to fit your needs.

10-07-2019, 04:58 AM	#10
Sir Nameless Site Supporter Join Date: Jul 2015 Location: Mass a chew sits Photos: Gallery Posts: 574	Another vote for the 18-135. I've had my K50 for...4 years or so now. I've bought and sold a few other lenses, and right now I have another zoom and two primes. But when I go hiking, the 18-135 is the one mounted when I leave home, and often is the only one I carry. It's a great all-arounder, very flexible, and a great way to work on your vision. Also, a great value in a kit bundle, IMO.

10-07-2019, 05:08 AM - 2 Likes	#11
Atrom1810 New Member Join Date: Oct 2019 Posts: 6 Original Poster	Thanks for the advice guys! So, I'll definitely buy the Camera with the 18-135 as Kit lens. A local store here is selling it pretty cheap. I wanted to stay with a maximum of 2 lenses at the beginning, since you already mentioned that buying lenses can become addictive. Just got to figure out which lens I should get for taking some nice night sky images, but I will take it easy, since it is my first "real" camera.

10-07-2019, 05:32 AM	#13
Atrom1810 New Member Join Date: Oct 2019 Posts: 6 Original Poster	Originally posted by aslyfox Welcome If I am not too late, I would urge the OP to take a look at these charts: The Pentax Camera Lens Compatibility Chart Pentax K-Mount Lenses Explained: The differences between various Pentax lens series lots of good information on the Pentax Camera Bodies and lenses _________________ the OP also might want to go up to " Lenses " and look at the in depth reviews and user reviews as well here is the one for the 18-135 Read more at: Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 Review - Introduction \| PentaxForums.com Reviews Read more at: SMC Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR Reviews - DA Zoom Lenses - Pentax Lens Reviews & Lens Database Thank you very much aslyfox! Definitely will have a look at that

10-07-2019, 05:55 AM	#14
aslyfox Seeker of Knowledge Join Date: Aug 2016 Location: Topeka, Kansas Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 24,581	You are welcomed lots of information and friendly folks here at the forums ____________________________ just ran across a thread that might be of interest to the OP and others DA 18-135 WR, Show us what it can do - PentaxForums.com _________________________________________________ don't forget the current contests after 10 posts this month you get a chance, 100 posts this month you get into the grand prize raffle

10-07-2019, 06:05 AM - 3 Likes	#15
bdery Pentaxian Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Quebec city, Canada Photos: Gallery Posts: 9,357	Originally posted by veato Do this. Or maybe get the 16-85. As you start to take more photos you'll be able to identify the kind of lenses to fit your needs. I erspect the 18-135 and think it's a fine choice, but I too prefer the 16-85. The wider angle will be useful for landscapes, it's generally a bit sharper than the 18-135, although it's also larger. Originally posted by Atrom1810 I wanted to stay with a maximum of 2 lenses at the beginning, since you already mentioned that buying lenses can become addictive. Don't get a lens just because you want two lenses, but by all means if you have a specific purpose in mind get the lens for that Originally posted by Atrom1810 Just got to figure out which lens I should get for taking some nice night sky images, but I will take it easy, since it is my first "real" camera. For night skies, you'll be better off with a decent tripod than a second lens. Once you're sure you wish for a second lens, if you want sky panoramas, something wide like the DA21 Limited would be a good choice. Or one of the very wide lenses available from third-party manufacturers like Irix, Laowa, Samyang. Or, if you find a stash of money somewhere, look at the 11-18mm, an amazing lens for what you have in mind.