DA*16-50mm suitable for landscapes?

My partner and I are off to Iceland again in January and I want to both improve and increase my photos from the last trip, which will hopefully include the Northern Lights this time as it was too cloudy when we went last year.

Is the DA*16-50mm suitable for landscape use from those of you that have it? I bought a 12-24mm from Amin a month or so ago which I know will be very useful but I was thinking more of the weather sealing aspect as well and looking at what lenses to take. I will be using it on a K-7 (which has now been repaired ) and my partner she will be using the K20.

Thanks

Rob

I think so. Tests show distortion at 16mm but this is easily correctable in editing software.

Cracking shot

Where was that taken? As I'll be using the K-7 I think it can make those adjustments in camera.

I bought the DA*16-50 specifically for my trip to the Grand Tetons (above) and Yellowstone. I am very happy with the results from it. So far I only have corrected one shot for barrel distortion.

I have always been a prime shooter, but for a travel kit I would not hesitate to take it again.

I doubt you'd notice distortion in a photograph of nature. Buildings are another matter. But with buildings you'd often be using the 12-24.

I'd risk my 16-50 in a light drizzle, but not in pouring rain.

G

Took the 50-135 in the pouring rain
Not a problem. Just dried it with a towel, then left it out to dry out naturally.

Matt

My 16-50 has been out a few times in pouring rain, not a single problem. As Matt says just wipe down afterwards and leave to dry

A little (rubbish) example of the conditions DA* lenses can cope with

[IMG]http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/1345/imgp1699.jpg[/IMG]

Back to the topic...yes the 16-50 is an ideal landscape tool IMO.

In short, Yes. It is a good lens for landscapes.
The slightly longer version...... Any lens is good for landscapes. It only depends on your imagination in which you use it.
Iceland for instance has a lot of scenes that cry out for the use of telephoto lenses. Compressed perspective, mountain ranges, hot water springs, steam.Etc..... Don't be surprised if afterwards your most used FL would be near or above 100 MM .

Have fun, and take as much gear to cover every possibility.

Martin.

I consider weather proofing to be very high on my list when it comes to buying a camera which is why I bought into Pentax and have since purchased 3 DA* lenses for just such occasions.

I just can't bring myself to take it outside in the rain though ..

The first time is always the hardest!

Once it's dry you wouldn't know

If it helps

I think you chaps are being a bit optimistic about the water-resistant properties of your lenses. I have a Rolex Submariner, bought when I used to dive, and after a while with these watches the seals go, and need to be replaced. I found that out the hard way. I suspect water-resistant lenses are the same.

I would hope my 16-50 would survive a heavy shower, but I'm not going to risk it if I can help it.

G

the 16-50 is terrific for landscapes, but I suppose that depends on your style so I might be an idea to take the 12-24 along too.

My DA* lenses have had several soakings with no adverse effects, my K20D and 16-50 even survived a day in Glastonbury Town while the festival was on so you can tell how wet it got.

What sort of shots do you take in the pouring rain?.....

Exhibit number one

[IMG]http://img62.imageshack.us/img62/7580/1650intherain.jpg[/IMG]