I would use 24-70 2.8 but then I sold it and bought 50 mm which is my all round lens and 135 f2.8 - I am not a professional but I like good lenses and I still use the d700
I shot with solely a 35mm for 9 years, got a 50mm about 3 years ago and just added the 85mm this year to my collection. OMG! I’m so in love with my 85mm!!!! I’m a portrait/newborn photographer and it gives the most beautiful creamy bokeh to my outdoor portraits! Def not a must, I mean I went 12 years without it, but gosh it is fun and beautiful!!!!
@@KatelynJames I photograph people making perfume. The 85 1.4 is superb for its sensational ability to land focus on the action, fill the frame with a beautifully lit face and butter everything else. I love it. I also love its flattering compression more than the 50 or the 135. "Defines my style" - me too.
I can't agree less; skip the 50 and get the 85 instead. 1. 35 2. 85 3. 20 4. 135 5. Macro That's my order of preference, for my style. The 35-85 combo is a good start.
I shoot indoor and outdoor corporate events and weddings. I’m thinking of getting a 35. I sold my big and heavy 70-200 f2.8. I bought a 135 f2. I might drift away from my 24-70 f2.8 and get a 35. That’ll give me 24, 35, 50, 85, 105 f2.8 micro, and 135 f2.
I wish I saw this video 2 years ago when I started taking photography seriously and started pushing my business, it would have saved me a lot of money lol. Now I'm at a point where I'm selling lenses I don't need, like the 70-180MM 2.8 Tamron for Sony. And I rarely use my 85MM 1.8. People who are seeing this video, this advise is absolutely golden! Thank you Katelyn!
I'm a beginner, and i spent like 2 days searching about lens understanding ! you are ma'am the first pro photographer who really answered everything in one nice short video.... thank you from my heart.
I’m sorry to “disagree”, but personally I believe the 50mm and 85mm are above everything else for couple and bride and groom portraits. Next, for general wedding photography it would be the 24-70mm and 70-200mm (yes, I know it is bulky, heavy, etc). Yes, primes are great, but as wedding photographers we have to consider flexibility and depth of field. Shooting with the 135mm f/2 at a wedding from afar I would still push it to and f/4 for depth of field and focus speed. Great video, very informative by the way! 👍 New sub!
there is a ton of value in this video for even non-wedding shooters. i want to buy lenses like crazy just to have them, but really i need to consider what problem i need to solve and only buy when i _need_ to. this is great, you obviously know what you're talking about and you've helped snap me out of thinking i need more stuff. thanks!
Great Job. As a Portrait and Wedding Photographer I approved this video. I love my 24-70 and 70-200 on wedding day. I keep my 24-70 on one my camera at all time.
Thank you so much, sold my camera gear unfortunately to help my husband to make ends meet. Getting my baby back in March and a wedding in May. You are now my go to.
Since moving to the R5 I have really loved all my new lenses : - 28-70 f2 (great balance between event / portrait lens, and lots of light in!) - 85 1.2 DS! ( amazing for portraits, super soft bokeh) - RF 70-200 (much lighter and smaller than previous EF options - I always used a 135 f2 instead of a 70-200 on my 5d4) The next lens I want to buy is a 35 1.2 DS! It is meant to be coming out in 2021 :)
Thank you sooooo much. I’ve been shooting exclusively with a 50mm for months but it is SO HARD to back up enough to get the shots I need. Now I will put my efforts into a 35
I lost you at 'you don't need an 85mm'. It's my bread and budder for 90% of weddings & portraits. I have a 35mm on a second body and I'm good. Hardly use my 50mm but 135mm is great for open spaces and low light.
GOOD! From a Fotographer that once did weddings decades ago using 120 roll film, Hasselblad and nearly always strobe these lens focal lengths follow a well honed and tried tradition of medium wide 35mm, normal 50mm, 135mm tele. This IS the basic triad for wedding photography and these three ARE the most useful and most used. Back in the Hasselblad days, this triad would be 60mm medium wide, 100mm normal, 150mm short tele on 6x6, 120 roll film. What has been recommended as fixed focal length lenses held true and correct back then and remains true and correct today for wedding photographers.
Right now my go to lenses are the 16-35 and 70-200 2.8. I find it's the most versatile duo you can have, but it's true that it requires to shoot at high ISO. I also have a 50mm 1.4 which I sometimes use in engagement photoshoots and I see it as a backup in case the 16-35 and/or 70-200 break. Finally the 100 mm macro for ring shots. But I'm tempted to go more and more towards primes. Or maybe the 28-70 as my main and the 135mm for long distance shots. Anyways, thanks for the tips/suggestions!
I would argue that a 85mm is a needed lens for portraits, it has served me better than a 50mm, but the 50mm is a very versatile lens and allows for single portraits, group portraits, candids etc. I think the 85mm handles peoples faces a little more accurately for H+S portraits. I agree with the 50, 35 and 85 purchase order if you're doing just weddings. This a really solid break down of the different lenses and their capabilities. I personally loved when I shot with the 50mm and 135mm lenses for weddings. The 135mm is an excellent lens and ultimately I sold it because at certain times I would get lens shake in my images, and had to shoot faster than 1/320th, I ended up buying a 70-200 2.8 is ii but soon found out that I didn't like the size and weight the 70-200 is ii took up in my bag, on my wrist etc, it wore me out. I then went to the new 70-200 f/4 is ii and that lens is excellent the IS on it impressed me a lot so I kept that lens. I recently sold my 50mm lens this year because I just wasn't using it as much as I should be, and I already had a 50 1.8 STM (not as romantic as the 1.2). I currently shoot with the16-35 f/4 IS USM lens which is great for landscapes, architecture, interiors, tight spaces, dance/high energy shots and dramatic environmental portraits I typically use it at 16 and occasionally 35mm, 35 f/2 IS (not as sharp at 1.4, but still good), 50 STM, 85 1.4 IS (perfect for portraits and bokeh), 24-70 f/4 IS USM; this lens ultimately replaced my macro 100mm 2.8 IS L because I can do ring shots with it, groups, landscapes, portraits etc. It has a macro switch function that allows me to get rings and details shots in the same manner that I would use the 100mm macro, on the web the 24-70 f/4 IS is talked down on for its macro function but in my real world use it functions perfectly and is a really versatile lens, I sold my 24-105 and Macro 100 after I bought the 24-70 f/4 IS. The 100mm is great but I was only using it for details, I didn't find it as successful for portraits. The 70-200 f/4 IS II is an excellent 70-200 that is super light and impressive stabilization. 16-35 f/4 is, 35 f/2, 24-70 f/4 is, 50 1.8 STM, 85 1.4 IS, 70-200 f/4 is ii.
I know so many people who hate the 70-200 but I love it! It might be my most used lens if I'm honest; I love how flattering the compression is and it means I don't have to be quite so close to my subject (good for the introverted portrait photographer). I've torn my shoulder to shreds using it so much but I can't say enough good things about it, honestly. So interesting to hear how differently we all view the same lenses!
Might be the odd person out but the 70-200mm is one of my favorite lenses. I use it for weddings, events & portraits. It's tack sharp for a zoom and the background is extremely creamy at 200... just as a good as a prime if you ask me. You just have the weight component which isn't a plus haha
No, you're not an odd person. Everyone has their own style of shooting. It's nice to have big aperture, but I wouldn't want carry all these primes. f2.8 zooms are fine.
Same - 70-200 is my #1 and I use on crop sensor (D500), 24-70 on full frame. My 35, 50 and 85 are all 1.8. I think the aperture scares me (re: focus). Did an engagement shoot once with only an 85 and I loved those pictures. You've given me something to think about!
I love this video! I'm a beginner in photography and my mom is suppose to be getting me my first prime lense for Christmas it's the canon ef 50 mm f1.8. 😁
The 85mm prime lens is my most used lens for people photography! And also many wedding photographers prefer 35mm and 85mm prime lenses as their main lens setup (on two full frame bodies).
I shoot almost everything I can with the 135mm, it is just magical. I also own the 35mm and a 50mm 1.4. And the 100mm Macro is just the cherry on top! Solid, sound advice! I never liked the 70-200 or zooms either. The only zoom I own is the 100-400mm II.
thanks for the suggestion. Yes I went the route you suggested ( I shoot wedding events). the first lens I bought is sigma 35 1.4 art DGDN. second is sigma 28-70 2.8 Contemporary DGDN. so far this both lens I need for wedding events. 35 when I shoot for more story telling (frame more). & 28-70 when I run & gun , especially in narrow space events. the next lens I will buy probably sigma 85mm 1.4 DGDN. gonna use it with double body combo 35+85. loves prime lens.
@@edenlim5542 I went with 28-70DGDN due to how small it is ( yes it will be my travel lens) . Tamron is a bit long. Its up to you. Both perform quite the same.
I have lately realized that I could pretty much fill everything I needed with only two lenses: 1. 35 mm f/1.4 This lens can cover all the middle range of needings. 2. 100 mm Macro f/2.8: This lens can cover the macro and telephoto needings at once.
3-2021 (I shoot mainly flower n foliage photos)I love my used Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM lens for macro shots on my Canon 5D Mark II. I enjoy my refurbished Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens for high up tree blossom n limbs photos. And my final go to lens for flower n foliage photos is my used Canon Zoom Lens EF 24-105mm 1:4 L IS USM for crystal clear photos and some macro ability with wide angle. I am hobby photographer.
Pro tip: If you're getting the 50mm, get the 1.4, not the 1.2. I don't even know why they are making the 1.2 lenses when the 1.4 lenses focus twice as fast (as fast as a normal 1.8 50mm), have a more cinematic look and are usually way sharper - all while the loss in bokeh is not even noticeable whatsoever aka. there is basically no bokeh loss. Not to mention the fact that we (who do weddings, portraits or documentary) rarely even shoot below 1.8... I find that about 90%> of my shots are at f2 or higher, about 5%> is at 1.8 and only
Thanks, great advise. I was literally just looking at buying a 35mm because indoors the 50mm is just inconvenient at times and some times you just can’t back up enough at all, it just feels too zoomed in. Now after watching this I think I’ll get my first second lens 35mm. Though the sigma 1.4 art looks a lot more affordable and still good quality for a hobbiest like me.
I'm a real estate photographer. I shoot my family and never had the confidence to really shoot other families for compensation. I never used a prime lens mostly because I was more intimidated by them than anything else. I made a really good friend that's a fantastic wedding photographer. He handed me a prime lens and said you're going to be my second shooter. I refused and refused until my Wife was making fun of me lol. So I went to shoot with him. I could not believe the results the lens produced. Absolutely amazing! I sold my EOS R and will be picking up a R6 this week. I can not wait!
How do you feel about renting things like the 85mm for weddings when you’re starting out? That way you’re getting more of the look you want but not investing as much into it?
I own the 85 mm 1.4 ef lens and that is a gorgeous lens. I don't consider myself a particular good photographer but I've had many people gasp at how gorgeous some of my pics were (and I wasn't even trying hard). I've never had those kind of comments with my 35 mm or 50 mm shots.
I did a wedding for a friend in 2008. I used a Nikon D40 with a Nikkor 18 70, a 55 to 200 and a 28mm 2.8 ai lens. Plus a Nikon Sb600. Don't forget light. . Results were excellent.
Nice video, I agree the 50mm should be the first lens IF you can only afford one lens to begin with. If you can pick up 2 lenses, I'd start with the 85 f1.4, or even 1.8 if the money doesn't allow for 1.4, and the 16-35 f2.8, or the Tamron 15-30mm f2.8. But just to start, and then build up the prime lens selection
What's amazing is that the order in the lenses you named are what I went with before I saw this video. I bought a 50mm and then a 35mm, which then brings me to my 3rd lense which is a 85mm which I am in love with. 💯💯🤞🏽
This is a fun video, it really took me back to my wedding days. Although I don’t agree on everything said here it is a great conversation and most of these lenses discussed are pretty much must haves IMO. As a multi year WPPI speaker and all around old schooler, might I suggest quickly getting the holy trinity set with one prime (50 or 35) + 100mm macro for live event work and always use two bodies simultaneously, but that’s just me. Typically I’d run with the 16-35 and 70-200 simultaneously and carry on a lowepro lens belt the 50mm, 24-70mm and 100mm IS. The 70-200 is certainly one of my favorites and has been a workhorse at weddings. I’ve never owned the 85 and never missed it. I do own the 135mm 2.0 and it’s my least used lens to the point I probably should have sold it; it’s beautiful but restrictive for wedding work and if you already own the 70-200 and/or the 100mm macro it’s really not worth buying. The 24-70 also gets lackluster use from me but I insist a second shooter have it on a body at all times for coverage sake. Ah weddings.. truly a love/hate relationship. We buy cinema glass nowadays, talk about heavy and expensive 😬. Good luck with the channel.
I did exactly the same and I'm very satisfied with my choice! 35mm, then 85mm, now I'm onto a wide lens and perhaps I'll add 24-70mm just for the variability. Everyone's style is different though :)
The 35mm f/1.4L II lens is one of my favorite lens. I shoot nearly half of my event/wedding photos with it. I use it with my EOS 1V when I want to shoot film, and on a Nikon Z5 when I need automated focus bracketing, and on my Sony a1 for general photos. It's so sharp I can go into crop mode and get 52mm f/2.1 equivalent 20MP photos and nobody seems to notice the differences.
OMG! You're pretty much hit all the right spots for me, especially when you said you never like the 70-200. Well, I have the same feeling. It's too long and not bright enough in most cases. But you're right, the whole world loves it and it's definitely one of the most popular. I also love what you said about 35 and 50. Again, the very same feeling here. I love the 50 just like you because it's just great at almost everything. Unfortunately, sometimes you do need something wider for group shots when your back was against the wall. And the speed, you're spot on about that too. Lastly, I'm totally agree with you about the 85. People believe it's the most suitable for portraits so it becomes one of the top on the list. The thing is I hardly ever use that lens when everything was rushing and you just have to be fast. I only pulled the 85 out when thing gets slowing down and I have time to be more creative about the shots. Like you said, it's the lenses people want but not always need. You only learn that after so many weddings and events. Great job with the video!!!
70-200 isn't flat, but maybe you can't use it. If you shoot only 1.4 or 1.8... this isn't too hard, because your background is blurry and doesn't create a additional layer of story.
@@rafalgelzok My price range limited me to a 70-200 that I didn’t care for, and its big and heavy. I shot for a few years with it as my main, and I still don’t like it.
I just subscribe to you Ms. Katelyn because Im a newbie and I dont know which lens should I buy first for primes. Now, I know what I would like to have. The first that I have was a kitlens 18-55mm for fuji. I love landscape, but I think, its time to explore portraits now. Thank you. I will look forward for more of your tutorials and suggestions. Although Im not a canon user. But your teaching everyone in general terms. God bless. Hope you grow more your audience. 😇🥳
I used to be a professional photographer. I never used an 85mm. 😅 The only primes I've used are the 28mm F2.8, 50mm F1.8, 100mm F2.8 Macro. For zooms 17-50mm F2.8 and 70-200mm F2.8. I did weddings, product and fashion. Now I retired from professional photography, every purchase is a want. 😂
If needed, the Canon EF 135mm f2 works with the Canon 1.4x or 2x tele converter. EF 135mm f2 with the Canon 1.4x tele converted results in a effective lens focal length of 200mm at f2.8. Using the Canon 2x tele converter results in a focal length of 270mm at f4. This can be another option to gain a longer focal length trading off some light loss or effective smaller lens full aperture. Impact of using tele converters is not as significant as most believe. Another way to effectively increase lens focal length is crop the image as needed, with the trade-offs that come with cropping an image in post.
I'm so glad that you shared this! I have been stuck on which lens I should purchase next to add to my collection. This video officially helped me make up my mind! Thank you so much!!
God bless you for putting content like this out there for free. This was super helpful and informative. Definitely helped me make a decision for what I should purchase next.
I’m amazed this video doesn’t have more views! Thank you soooo much for such a helpful, amazing video! Would you suggest any changes to the wedding lineup for an elopement photographer? As a COVID-19 bride who had to change her wedding plans, my heart is really in elopement photography, and I want to be able to capture those special days in the best way possible.
I like how this list is derived from someone's hands on experience. As someone who started pro photography about a year ago, I think this is great information for a beginner.
Hi, thank you for the awesome video! A struggle for me is using the focus settings right and knowing when to use which ones etc. Just for future video ideas:) greetings from Germany
Hi Katelyn! I do my churches photography and currently the lens I’m using is the canon 75-300 but it’s NOT good for low light situations and my church is very low light but also a very long aisle so I don’t think the 135 is going to be enough zoom. What other lens would you recommend?
Hey Katelyn, I am so glad I stumbled across your FB page. I have read and watched so many of your videos/educations and I have learned so much from you! I have recently upgraded from a Canon 40D to a Canon 5DIII and I am loving it. I need a zoom lens that is good in low light and fast. I compete in mounted shooting and would like to do a different kind of shooting as well lol Most competitions are in poorly lit enclosed arenas and the horses are moving very fast. Any suggestions?
Honestly we don't have any experience with any zoom lens other than the 70-200 and 24-70 2.8. I would recommend talking with someone in that field. I wish I could be more help!
I have a Canon 24-105L zoom lens that I just LOVE. It's fast, sharp and I think it works great in low light....all things are relative however...I am not sure if this lens is AS FAST as some of the primes that Katelyn recommends, but I usually have that lens on my camera when I am out and about taking shots....(It's especially handy to me on our sailboat!)
May most used lens for portraits is 85mm f1.4, second is 50mm, 3rd is 70-200mm and sometimes 35mm when want to show environment. For weddings and events 24-70mm and 85mm are the main lenses, 3rd is 50mm, 70-200mm if need a reach, 100mm for details and 16-35mm if need to go wider than 24mm.
Katelyn, I am SO happy I stumbled upon this video! Thank you so much for sharing your recommendations on lenses. I had convinced myself that I needed the 85mm because all the photographers I follow shoot with them. I'm just starting out my photography business and I have a 50mm, 1.8. Would you recommend upgrading this to the 1.2 first? Or stick with the 50mm, 1.8 and add the 35mm to my bag? (Right now I'm primarily doing family and senior portraits!) I'm torn on what my next purchase should be!
Spot on with what I eventually ended up doing haha. I started my photography without much knowledge, and bought what I "WANT", a Canon 5D with 24-105 and 70-200. It's a fantastic camera and lens, just not what I "NEED." Many years later, I'm now using mirrorless camera with 55, 28, 90 micro, and 85 in that order....and I can never go back, mirrorless camera and lens combined weight under 2 lbs, shooting one handed ALL day and don't feel a thing.
Love this! Thanks for sharing all this, I found it super helpful. I've been dreading the idea of buying a 70-200 for the exact reasons you mentioned, but just felt I had no other choice...I think the 135mm is going to be a much better investment.
I am a Nikon (full frame) and Fuji user. I am primarily a prime lens user and have the 24,28,35,40,50,58,85,100,135 mm lenses with f numbers varying from 1.4 to 2.8. The image rendition of primes due to the low element count, high transmission and bright apertures is usually not replicated by most zoom lenses. Also, as you said the primes are more ergonomic to use. For most of my needs, I find the 28 mm, 40 mm and 75 mm (in full frame terms) the most useful focal lengths.
Primes are great, however Canon's new zooms are so good! Their 28-70 f2, 24-70 f2.8 and now the more compact 70-200 f2.8 are all awesome. Additionally, now third parties like Sigma and Tamron has really bridged the gap with image quality, sharpness and image stabilization making lens choices are even harder! LOL Thanks for the video!
I agree in the beginning we shop for lenses we think we want and we really do not need. We then have a bunch of lenses we don't even use. Also we need to stay away from situational lenses. Do you need a macro or can you just crop on an image? Do you need a super telephoto, do you shoot that far or do you just want it in the line up?
Thank you! I struggle with weddings and owning all primes! How do you deal with not owning the 24-70? I don’t own it or even rent it. I rent the 70-200 (but would love to own 135 instead) but what really bothers me, is in the fast moments, always being too close or unnecessarily far and then having to crop in. I feel like 24-70 would solve this problem. Is it just years of experience, or do you have a trick for someone without extensive wedding experience? And is the bokeh just really not the same?
I do own the 24-70. Michael loves using the 24-70 and 70-200 on wedding days. There is a style difference for sure between a zoom and prime lens. I would recommend watching a free month of KJ All Access to see how I make only prime lenses work on a wedding day. ruclips.net/user/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=791eFGEopn86tkz1i4dAc4poCuF8MTU4ODc3NzY2NkAxNTg4NjkxMjY2&q=https%3A%2F%2Fgeni.us%2Fkj-all-access-trial&v=Jc7w6fxoxgs
Great video. My first prime was an 85mm, which no one recommended, and I have never regretted it. Tbf, I don't shoot weddings except occasionally for friends. I shoot mainly one subject portraiture.
I've done weddings for 20 years. The only lens I ever use is, 24-105mm L 4.0, always works for every situation and the photos are tac sharp. Sometimes the 85mm 1.8 for the Bride and Groom alone if we are not pressed for time.
Church rules be damned! The couple are paying me to get the shot and the wedding is all about the couple. Perhaps in regular church services but this is a wedding and the photographer needs to freedom to move around to get the shot. Period. I had a wedding where I was trying to be discreet and just move around in the back. The groom actually chewed me out because of that! Lesson learned, so long as the conversation is had with the couple prior to the ceremony, be aggressive and unapologetic about getting the shots the couple needs. Period.
I have many L lenses but 2 that stuck on my bodies are 35mm 1.4 & 85mm 1.4. I ditched my 50mm 1.2 for 35mm n I really loved it ! It shows more background n tells everyone where it was photographed
I have heard so many opinions on which lens to get versus another and you're the first person I've ever come across that has broken it down to make logical sense. I was told that my first lens for my new camera ( which isn't the latest and greatest) the Nikon D750 should be the 85mm . What did I do! I paraded out and ordered it with my camera. I haven't had many issues with the exception of working in small spaces and whenever I have taken a portrait of a newborn the baby looked gigantic and not true tiny size. I like shooting family portraits the most . I once had a 50mm manual lens trying to save money and it was the worst choice ever. It never remained in focus. Listening to you perhaps my first lens should've been the 24-70mm , but I am happy that I have the 85.
I love how simple she is. She does a phenomenal job at presenting it with humility and not focusing on herself, but focusing on the needs of others I think that is very Christlike! It is my first time checking out some lenses. I definitely look forward to getting the 50 mm lens that is on my list because it is a need and 85 was very intriguing but that is not what I need right now! I do have a question I’m considering to purchase the Canon EOS R50, what are your thoughts on that? Is that OK to purchase for wedding photography? just the camera body. What canon camera bodies would you prefer for wedding photography?
Your videos are WAAAAY more helpful than channels who have millions of subscribers. Thank you!!!
Wow, thanks!
I don't do weddings or even photography but I ended up watching the whole video because it was so well put together. Thank you!
Yay! Thank you!
I would use 24-70 2.8 but then I sold it and bought 50 mm which is my all round lens and 135 f2.8 - I am not a professional but I like good lenses and I still use the d700
I agree 100%
Very funny
@@KatelynJames good morning Katelyn in 2022 what do you recommend lenses for wedding photographer ? cheers from London
I shot with solely a 35mm for 9 years, got a 50mm about 3 years ago and just added the 85mm this year to my collection. OMG! I’m so in love with my 85mm!!!! I’m a portrait/newborn photographer and it gives the most beautiful creamy bokeh to my outdoor portraits! Def not a must, I mean I went 12 years without it, but gosh it is fun and beautiful!!!!
Yes!! The 85 is my fav!!
@@KatelynJames I photograph people making perfume. The 85 1.4 is superb for its sensational ability to land focus on the action, fill the frame with a beautifully lit face and butter everything else. I love it.
I also love its flattering compression more than the 50 or the 135.
"Defines my style" - me too.
This is hands down the most practical and helpful take on lenses I've ever heard!
Thats so sweet Miranda! Glad you enjoyed it!
Are you also a billionaire
@@chuckmac3994 smart people keep to themselves, so she might be right but who knows
True❤
I think for my style, 35-85-135 would be my dream kit!
That's a good set up!
I can't agree less; skip the 50 and get the 85 instead.
1. 35
2. 85
3. 20
4. 135
5. Macro
That's my order of preference, for my style. The 35-85 combo is a good start.
Saaaame
I shoot indoor and outdoor corporate events and weddings. I’m thinking of getting a 35. I sold my big and heavy 70-200 f2.8. I bought a 135 f2. I might drift away from my 24-70 f2.8 and get a 35. That’ll give me 24, 35, 50, 85, 105 f2.8 micro, and 135 f2.
add the 24 and that is a lifetime set up 😊🎉
I wish I saw this video 2 years ago when I started taking photography seriously and started pushing my business, it would have saved me a lot of money lol. Now I'm at a point where I'm selling lenses I don't need, like the 70-180MM 2.8 Tamron for Sony. And I rarely use my 85MM 1.8. People who are seeing this video, this advise is absolutely golden! Thank you Katelyn!
I'm a beginner, and i spent like 2 days searching about lens understanding ! you are ma'am the first pro photographer who really answered everything in one nice short video.... thank you from my heart.
Glad it was helpful!
I’m sorry to “disagree”, but personally I believe the 50mm and 85mm are above everything else for couple and bride and groom portraits. Next, for general wedding photography it would be the 24-70mm and 70-200mm (yes, I know it is bulky, heavy, etc). Yes, primes are great, but as wedding photographers we have to consider flexibility and depth of field. Shooting with the 135mm f/2 at a wedding from afar I would still push it to and f/4 for depth of field and focus speed. Great video, very informative by the way! 👍 New sub!
Thanks for watching!!
U can use 35 with crop mode and have a 55 mm
Monica , it will still have the field of view of a 35, so not pleasing for portraits.
@@ibugama6420 thats why 85 exist
@@ibugama6420 you mean crop sensor?
there is a ton of value in this video for even non-wedding shooters. i want to buy lenses like crazy just to have them, but really i need to consider what problem i need to solve and only buy when i _need_ to. this is great, you obviously know what you're talking about and you've helped snap me out of thinking i need more stuff. thanks!
Thanks for watching!
Struggled to find a video where someone explained this so well! Thank you
I absolutely love my 85mm lens. It's become my new favorite and it stays on my camera almost all the time.
I share the same affection for that lens!!
Great Job. As a Portrait and Wedding Photographer I approved this video. I love my 24-70 and 70-200 on wedding day. I keep my 24-70 on one my camera at all time.
These tips can not only apply to lenses but also to life.
Truth!
Thank you so much, sold my camera gear unfortunately to help my husband to make ends meet. Getting my baby back in March and a wedding in May. You are now my go to.
Thanks so much! Glad it was helpful!
Since moving to the R5 I have really loved all my new lenses :
- 28-70 f2 (great balance between event / portrait lens, and lots of light in!)
- 85 1.2 DS! ( amazing for portraits, super soft bokeh)
- RF 70-200 (much lighter and smaller than previous EF options - I always used a 135 f2 instead of a 70-200 on my 5d4)
The next lens I want to buy is a 35 1.2 DS! It is meant to be coming out in 2021 :)
Thanks for watching!!
I would LOOOOOVE that 28-70 f2 but holy moly. It costs as much an R5
Thank you sooooo much. I’ve been shooting exclusively with a 50mm for months but it is SO HARD to back up enough to get the shots I need. Now I will put my efforts into a 35
It would be a great investment!
I lost you at 'you don't need an 85mm'. It's my bread and budder for 90% of weddings & portraits. I have a 35mm on a second body and I'm good. Hardly use my 50mm but 135mm is great for open spaces and low light.
GOOD!
From a Fotographer that once did weddings decades ago using 120 roll film, Hasselblad and nearly always strobe these lens focal lengths follow a well honed and tried tradition of medium wide 35mm, normal 50mm, 135mm tele. This IS the basic triad for wedding photography and these three ARE the most useful and most used. Back in the Hasselblad days, this triad would be 60mm medium wide, 100mm normal, 150mm short tele on 6x6, 120 roll film. What has been recommended as fixed focal length lenses held true and correct back then and remains true and correct today for wedding photographers.
Thanks for sharing!
Right now my go to lenses are the 16-35 and 70-200 2.8. I find it's the most versatile duo you can have, but it's true that it requires to shoot at high ISO. I also have a 50mm 1.4 which I sometimes use in engagement photoshoots and I see it as a backup in case the 16-35 and/or 70-200 break. Finally the 100 mm macro for ring shots. But I'm tempted to go more and more towards primes. Or maybe the 28-70 as my main and the 135mm for long distance shots. Anyways, thanks for the tips/suggestions!
We love our primes!!
I love how you discuss your priorities and how each of the lenses affects your line of work. ❤️
Glad you found it helpful! Thanks for watching!
I would argue that a 85mm is a needed lens for portraits, it has served me better than a 50mm, but the 50mm is a very versatile lens and allows for single portraits, group portraits, candids etc. I think the 85mm handles peoples faces a little more accurately for H+S portraits. I agree with the 50, 35 and 85 purchase order if you're doing just weddings. This a really solid break down of the different lenses and their capabilities. I personally loved when I shot with the 50mm and 135mm lenses for weddings. The 135mm is an excellent lens and ultimately I sold it because at certain times I would get lens shake in my images, and had to shoot faster than 1/320th, I ended up buying a 70-200 2.8 is ii but soon found out that I didn't like the size and weight the 70-200 is ii took up in my bag, on my wrist etc, it wore me out. I then went to the new 70-200 f/4 is ii and that lens is excellent the IS on it impressed me a lot so I kept that lens. I recently sold my 50mm lens this year because I just wasn't using it as much as I should be, and I already had a 50 1.8 STM (not as romantic as the 1.2). I currently shoot with the16-35 f/4 IS USM lens which is great for landscapes, architecture, interiors, tight spaces, dance/high energy shots and dramatic environmental portraits I typically use it at 16 and occasionally 35mm, 35 f/2 IS (not as sharp at 1.4, but still good), 50 STM, 85 1.4 IS (perfect for portraits and bokeh), 24-70 f/4 IS USM; this lens ultimately replaced my macro 100mm 2.8 IS L because I can do ring shots with it, groups, landscapes, portraits etc. It has a macro switch function that allows me to get rings and details shots in the same manner that I would use the 100mm macro, on the web the 24-70 f/4 IS is talked down on for its macro function but in my real world use it functions perfectly and is a really versatile lens, I sold my 24-105 and Macro 100 after I bought the 24-70 f/4 IS. The 100mm is great but I was only using it for details, I didn't find it as successful for portraits. The 70-200 f/4 IS II is an excellent 70-200 that is super light and impressive stabilization. 16-35 f/4 is, 35 f/2, 24-70 f/4 is, 50 1.8 STM, 85 1.4 IS, 70-200 f/4 is ii.
Thanks for watching!
I know so many people who hate the 70-200 but I love it! It might be my most used lens if I'm honest; I love how flattering the compression is and it means I don't have to be quite so close to my subject (good for the introverted portrait photographer). I've torn my shoulder to shreds using it so much but I can't say enough good things about it, honestly. So interesting to hear how differently we all view the same lenses!
Makes total sense! Thanks for sharing Sammie!!
who hates it? my fav lens is 50mm 1.2 and the 70-200 2.8 lol
I really Love 70-200 2.8
Might be the odd person out but the 70-200mm is one of my favorite lenses. I use it for weddings, events & portraits. It's tack sharp for a zoom and the background is extremely creamy at 200... just as a good as a prime if you ask me. You just have the weight component which isn't a plus haha
My husband Michael also loves the 70-200!
No, you're not an odd person. Everyone has their own style of shooting. It's nice to have big aperture, but I wouldn't want carry all these primes.
f2.8 zooms are fine.
@@eraserrx ya f2.8 vs f2 is not a huge difference. The zoom range out weighs the one stop of light
I don't do photography but video and the 70-200 f2.8 is one of our favorites because we can go handheld with its IS. It's a great lens!
Same - 70-200 is my #1 and I use on crop sensor (D500), 24-70 on full frame. My 35, 50 and 85 are all 1.8. I think the aperture scares me (re: focus). Did an engagement shoot once with only an 85 and I loved those pictures. You've given me something to think about!
I just saw the video of you saying zoom lens are better. Photography evolve and Im glad to see photographers too
haha!! never say never!
I love this video! I'm a beginner in photography and my mom is suppose to be getting me my first prime lense for Christmas it's the canon ef 50 mm f1.8. 😁
Love it!
50 mm f1.8 STM is a great lens.
You can get that lens cheap on eBay
Score! It’s an awesome lens. Makes a dslr feel like a point and shoot. Lowers the intimidation factor quite a bit.
That was my first prime lens- also a Christmas present 🥹❤️ I hope you love it!!
I use my 85mm lens on every single portrait session I shoot. Absolutely LOVE that lens and its my go to every time for portraits.
Yes!! I agree!!
The 85mm prime lens is my most used lens for people photography! And also many wedding photographers prefer 35mm and 85mm prime lenses as their main lens setup (on two full frame bodies).
true!
What about when you have to do shots with rings etc?
@@JT-fm4ye then you need of course an additional macro lens...
It’s my first lens and also still my favorite lens of all time. Even tho I have all the other ones.☺️☺️
In fact, is my go to combo 35mm 1.4 and 85mm 1.4 in two FF bodies
Damn from my 4 years of experience , I can confirm . Her each and every advice is just of next level and right.
Thankyou
Thanks for watching!
I shoot almost everything I can with the 135mm, it is just magical. I also own the 35mm and a 50mm 1.4. And the 100mm Macro is just the cherry on top! Solid, sound advice! I never liked the 70-200 or zooms either. The only zoom I own is the 100-400mm II.
Thats awesome Rob!
I’ve been wanting to get a 135mm
Totally agree! I call the 135 my magic lense!
How sharp for group shots using the 135? I’m thinking of getting it. I have 50, 85, 70-200 and 18-70.
@@magicalunicorn5853 Mine is very sharp! I don't own a 70-200 so I can't compare it against but it is my most used lens!
thanks for the suggestion. Yes I went the route you suggested ( I shoot wedding events). the first lens I bought is sigma 35 1.4 art DGDN. second is sigma 28-70 2.8 Contemporary DGDN. so far this both lens I need for wedding events. 35 when I shoot for more story telling (frame more). & 28-70 when I run & gun , especially in narrow space events. the next lens I will buy probably sigma 85mm 1.4 DGDN. gonna use it with double body combo 35+85. loves prime lens.
hi pal, im considering between sigma 28-70 dgdn or tamron 28-75 g2, pls advise me >.
@@edenlim5542 I went with 28-70DGDN due to how small it is ( yes it will be my travel lens) . Tamron is a bit long. Its up to you. Both perform quite the same.
I have lately realized that I could pretty much fill everything I needed with only two lenses:
1. 35 mm f/1.4 This lens can cover all the middle range of needings.
2. 100 mm Macro f/2.8: This lens can cover the macro and telephoto needings at once.
I can respect that! Thanks for watching!
Dont spoil it !!! If You want to be accepted here, follow the aim of the gospel.
3-2021 (I shoot mainly flower n foliage photos)I love my used Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM lens for macro shots on my Canon 5D Mark II. I enjoy my refurbished Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens for high up tree blossom n limbs photos. And my final go to lens for flower n foliage photos is my used Canon Zoom Lens EF 24-105mm 1:4 L IS USM for crystal clear photos and some macro ability with wide angle. I am hobby photographer.
Thanks for sharing!
Pro tip: If you're getting the 50mm, get the 1.4, not the 1.2. I don't even know why they are making the 1.2 lenses when the 1.4 lenses focus twice as fast (as fast as a normal 1.8 50mm), have a more cinematic look and are usually way sharper - all while the loss in bokeh is not even noticeable whatsoever aka. there is basically no bokeh loss. Not to mention the fact that we (who do weddings, portraits or documentary) rarely even shoot below 1.8... I find that about 90%> of my shots are at f2 or higher, about 5%> is at 1.8 and only
Thanks for sharing!
What about the F1.8
Bla bla bla its for the ONE picture that you take where you need 1.2.
Boom! Cant do that with a 1.4
RF 50mm 1.2L exists. But RF 50mm f1.4 does not exist (YET). EF 50mm f1.4 may be adapted for the time being.
You should get the ef 200/2.8 mk2 if you like the 135/2.0. We have both of them and they are superb
I have heard it is amazing!
Thanks, great advise. I was literally just looking at buying a 35mm because indoors the 50mm is just inconvenient at times and some times you just can’t back up enough at all, it just feels too zoomed in. Now after watching this I think I’ll get my first second lens 35mm. Though the sigma 1.4 art looks a lot more affordable and still good quality for a hobbiest like me.
Awesome!
Thank you so much. Now I feel much better with my lens group
Happy to help!
Im only rely on my 2 lens + 1 backup
Sigma 50mm f1.4 non art (main lens)
Canon 24-105 f4L is usm (group/candid zoom)
Canon ef 50mm f1.8 stm (backup)
Thats a good set up!
I'm a real estate photographer. I shoot my family and never had the confidence to really shoot other families for compensation. I never used a prime lens mostly because I was more intimidated by them than anything else. I made a really good friend that's a fantastic wedding photographer. He handed me a prime lens and said you're going to be my second shooter. I refused and refused until my Wife was making fun of me lol. So I went to shoot with him. I could not believe the results the lens produced. Absolutely amazing! I sold my EOS R and will be picking up a R6 this week. I can not wait!
Love it!
How do you feel about renting things like the 85mm for weddings when you’re starting out? That way you’re getting more of the look you want but not investing as much into it?
Kendal Nicole LOVE this route! Try it out but you don’t have to commit totally!
I own the 85 mm 1.4 ef lens and that is a gorgeous lens. I don't consider myself a particular good photographer but I've had many people gasp at how gorgeous some of my pics were (and I wasn't even trying hard). I've never had those kind of comments with my 35 mm or 50 mm shots.
Agreed
Good video. I use a macro 100 and zoom 14-35. Covers most cases
Thanks for watching!
After extensive over analyzing what lenses to buy, you absolutely nailed what direction I actually went. Bravo
Glad I could help!
I did a wedding for a friend in 2008.
I used a Nikon D40 with a Nikkor 18 70, a 55 to 200 and a 28mm 2.8 ai lens. Plus a Nikon Sb600. Don't forget light. . Results were excellent.
Thanks for sharing!!
i agree with 35mm first based on experience as a wedding photog
Thanks!
I also have the Canon 300mm f2.8 II prime. Used with a Canon 1DX Mark iii. Photos are unbelievable.
That does sound amazing!
Nice video, I agree the 50mm should be the first lens IF you can only afford one lens to begin with. If you can pick up 2 lenses, I'd start with the 85 f1.4, or even 1.8 if the money doesn't allow for 1.4, and the 16-35 f2.8, or the Tamron 15-30mm f2.8. But just to start, and then build up the prime lens selection
Thanks for watching!
What's amazing is that the order in the lenses you named are what I went with before I saw this video. I bought a 50mm and then a 35mm, which then brings me to my 3rd lense which is a 85mm which I am in love with. 💯💯🤞🏽
That is awesome!
This is a fun video, it really took me back to my wedding days. Although I don’t agree on everything said here it is a great conversation and most of these lenses discussed are pretty much must haves IMO.
As a multi year WPPI speaker and all around old schooler, might I suggest quickly getting the holy trinity set with one prime (50 or 35) + 100mm macro for live event work and always use two bodies simultaneously, but that’s just me. Typically I’d run with the 16-35 and 70-200 simultaneously and carry on a lowepro lens belt the 50mm, 24-70mm and 100mm IS. The 70-200 is certainly one of my favorites and has been a workhorse at weddings. I’ve never owned the 85 and never missed it. I do own the 135mm 2.0 and it’s my least used lens to the point I probably should have sold it; it’s beautiful but restrictive for wedding work and if you already own the 70-200 and/or the 100mm macro it’s really not worth buying. The 24-70 also gets lackluster use from me but I insist a second shooter have it on a body at all times for coverage sake. Ah weddings.. truly a love/hate relationship. We buy cinema glass nowadays, talk about heavy and expensive 😬. Good luck with the channel.
Thanks for sharing and watching!
Informative, practical and most sensible review....I feel 50mm(prime), 18-55 and 55-200 will cover everything
Thanks for watching!
Well.. I'm actually thinking almost in completely opposite way, after general 24-105 zoom, go 35, then 85, and perhaps skip 50 altogether.
Thanks for sharing!
I did exactly the same and I'm very satisfied with my choice! 35mm, then 85mm, now I'm onto a wide lens and perhaps I'll add 24-70mm just for the variability. Everyone's style is different though :)
The 35mm f/1.4L II lens is one of my favorite lens. I shoot nearly half of my event/wedding photos with it. I use it with my EOS 1V when I want to shoot film, and on a Nikon Z5 when I need automated focus bracketing, and on my Sony a1 for general photos. It's so sharp I can go into crop mode and get 52mm f/2.1 equivalent 20MP photos and nobody seems to notice the differences.
Thanks for watching!
OMG! You're pretty much hit all the right spots for me, especially when you said you never like the 70-200. Well, I have the same feeling. It's too long and not bright enough in most cases. But you're right, the whole world loves it and it's definitely one of the most popular.
I also love what you said about 35 and 50. Again, the very same feeling here. I love the 50 just like you because it's just great at almost everything. Unfortunately, sometimes you do need something wider for group shots when your back was against the wall. And the speed, you're spot on about that too.
Lastly, I'm totally agree with you about the 85. People believe it's the most suitable for portraits so it becomes one of the top on the list. The thing is I hardly ever use that lens when everything was rushing and you just have to be fast. I only pulled the 85 out when thing gets slowing down and I have time to be more creative about the shots. Like you said, it's the lenses people want but not always need. You only learn that after so many weddings and events.
Great job with the video!!!
Thanks!
70-200 is great and bright
Please comment on what scenarios you use the 85 in and how it helps define your style. (love your style)
During portrait time with the Bride and Groom! It gives me the creamiest bokeh that I love!
It took me a long time to realize that I’d rather run around and work to get great shots with a super dynamic 85 prime, than to use a flat 70-200.
Great to hear! Me too!!
Me too👍
70-200 isn't flat, but maybe you can't use it. If you shoot only 1.4 or 1.8... this isn't too hard, because your background is blurry and doesn't create a additional layer of story.
@@rafalgelzok My price range limited me to a 70-200 that I didn’t care for, and its big and heavy. I shot for a few years with it as my main, and I still don’t like it.
@@calebginsberg5224 you shoot more weddings or portrait with it?
I just subscribe to you Ms. Katelyn because Im a newbie and I dont know which lens should I buy first for primes. Now, I know what I would like to have. The first that I have was a kitlens 18-55mm for fuji. I love landscape, but I think, its time to explore portraits now.
Thank you. I will look forward for more of your tutorials and suggestions. Although Im not a canon user. But your teaching everyone in general terms. God bless. Hope you grow more your audience. 😇🥳
Thanks for watching!
I used to be a professional photographer. I never used an 85mm. 😅 The only primes I've used are the 28mm F2.8, 50mm F1.8, 100mm F2.8 Macro. For zooms 17-50mm F2.8 and 70-200mm F2.8. I did weddings, product and fashion.
Now I retired from professional photography, every purchase is a want. 😂
So good!
Thank you. This was the most helpful tips for me although I shoot Nikon
Thanks for watching!
35 & 85 then RF 70-200 FTW
You get some macro in both the 85 2.0 and 35 1.8 🙌 RF 70-200 is much lighter than my old one
great points!
If needed, the Canon EF 135mm f2 works with the Canon 1.4x or 2x tele converter. EF 135mm f2 with the Canon 1.4x tele converted results in a effective lens focal length of 200mm at f2.8. Using the Canon 2x tele converter results in a focal length of 270mm at f4. This can be another option to gain a longer focal length trading off some light loss or effective smaller lens full aperture.
Impact of using tele converters is not as significant as most believe. Another way to effectively increase lens focal length is crop the image as needed, with the trade-offs that come with cropping an image in post.
Thanks for watching!
I'm so glad that you shared this! I have been stuck on which lens I should purchase next to add to my collection. This video officially helped me make up my mind! Thank you so much!!
Glad it helped!
My first lens was the Sony 55mm f/1.8. It’s a masterpiece with a great price!
God bless you for putting content like this out there for free. This was super helpful and informative. Definitely helped me make a decision for what I should purchase next.
Glad it was helpful!
This was really helpful. I’m switching to canon mirrorless after being on Olympus for years and am dreading the lens purchases
1.2 lenses are harder to focus than a 1.4 because of the depth of field. I shot all my weddings with only a 50/1.4 and a 35/2.0.
Thanks for watching!
The need/want advice is the best advice on RUclips. Let's face it, most of us are photo enthusiasts, not professionals.
I’m amazed this video doesn’t have more views! Thank you soooo much for such a helpful, amazing video! Would you suggest any changes to the wedding lineup for an elopement photographer? As a COVID-19 bride who had to change her wedding plans, my heart is really in elopement photography, and I want to be able to capture those special days in the best way possible.
I don't know if you need a 70-200 if it is a small ceremony! Hope that helps! Glad you enjoyed the video!!
I like how this list is derived from someone's hands on experience. As someone who started pro photography about a year ago, I think this is great information for a beginner.
Thanks for watching!
Hi, thank you for the awesome video! A struggle for me is using the focus settings right and knowing when to use which ones etc. Just for future video ideas:) greetings from Germany
We will put that on the list of potential upcoming videos!! Thanks
For those in a rush:
50mm f/1.2 (I'll go 1.4 if that's cheaper)
35mm f/1.4
70-200 Zoom (I'll go Sigma here)
100mm Macro
85mm f/1.4
Thanks for watching!
Hi Katelyn!
I do my churches photography and currently the lens I’m using is the canon 75-300 but it’s NOT good for low light situations and my church is very low light but also a very long aisle so I don’t think the 135 is going to be enough zoom. What other lens would you recommend?
The 70-200 may do better in low light
nice.. my combo.. 35mm for groupshots.. 70-200 for the rest..
Thanks for watching!
85mm for life !
Amen!
RF 85mm and the RF 100mm macro. They are my favorite lenses of all time.
They really are great!
Hey Katelyn, I am so glad I stumbled across your FB page. I have read and watched so many of your videos/educations and I have learned so much from you! I have recently upgraded from a Canon 40D to a Canon 5DIII and I am loving it. I need a zoom lens that is good in low light and fast. I compete in mounted shooting and would like to do a different kind of shooting as well lol Most competitions are in poorly lit enclosed arenas and the horses are moving very fast. Any suggestions?
Honestly we don't have any experience with any zoom lens other than the 70-200 and 24-70 2.8. I would recommend talking with someone in that field. I wish I could be more help!
I have a Canon 24-105L zoom lens that I just LOVE. It's fast, sharp and I think it works great in low light....all things are relative however...I am not sure if this lens is AS FAST as some of the primes that Katelyn recommends, but I usually have that lens on my camera when I am out and about taking shots....(It's especially handy to me on our sailboat!)
I'm just starting out and have a kit lense. I'm looking to buy a new lense and this was really helpful!
Glad it was helpful!
85 is a need. Do whole weddings with that lens. everyones needs are different.
Totally true! Thanks for watching!
I'm using a 90mm tamron, and it's become my daily driver
Totally agree
people have told me a 50 on a crop sensor is like an 85 on a full frame. is this true?
@@court1619 yes!
May most used lens for portraits is 85mm f1.4, second is 50mm, 3rd is 70-200mm and sometimes 35mm when want to show environment. For weddings and events 24-70mm and 85mm are the main lenses, 3rd is 50mm, 70-200mm if need a reach, 100mm for details and 16-35mm if need to go wider than 24mm.
Sounds like a great set up!!
Katelyn, I am SO happy I stumbled upon this video! Thank you so much for sharing your recommendations on lenses. I had convinced myself that I needed the 85mm because all the photographers I follow shoot with them. I'm just starting out my photography business and I have a 50mm, 1.8. Would you recommend upgrading this to the 1.2 first? Or stick with the 50mm, 1.8 and add the 35mm to my bag? (Right now I'm primarily doing family and senior portraits!) I'm torn on what my next purchase should be!
I always recommend people rent lenses before buying to see if they can tell that big of a difference!
I find your thoughts/advices quite sensible and helpful. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Everyone has their own style of shooting. It's nice to have big aperture, but I wouldn't want carry all these primes.
f2.8 zooms are fine for me.
Agree to disagree haha Thanks for watching!
To each their own! I love my primes!
this is the best video that explains the needs and wants honestly if your buying mirrorless f1.8 options are great as well
Thanks!
Spot on with the “want not need thing”...🤙
Thanks!
Spot on with what I eventually ended up doing haha.
I started my photography without much knowledge, and bought what I "WANT", a Canon 5D with 24-105 and 70-200.
It's a fantastic camera and lens, just not what I "NEED." Many years later, I'm now using mirrorless camera with 55, 28, 90 micro, and 85 in that order....and I can never go back, mirrorless camera and lens combined weight under 2 lbs, shooting one handed ALL day and don't feel a thing.
Thanks for watching!
Love this! Thanks for sharing all this, I found it super helpful. I've been dreading the idea of buying a 70-200 for the exact reasons you mentioned, but just felt I had no other choice...I think the 135mm is going to be a much better investment.
Glad it was helpful!!
I am a Nikon (full frame) and Fuji user. I am primarily a prime lens user and have the 24,28,35,40,50,58,85,100,135 mm lenses with f numbers varying from 1.4 to 2.8. The image rendition of primes due to the low element count, high transmission and bright apertures is usually not replicated by most zoom lenses. Also, as you said the primes are more ergonomic to use. For most of my needs, I find the 28 mm, 40 mm and 75 mm (in full frame terms) the most useful focal lengths.
Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for being a blessing and sharing your knowledge. It’s such a gift you’re giving.
You are so welcome
What do you recommend as a lens for event photography using crop sensor dslr?
Started watching for buying tips, stayed for life tips
Awesome!!
im with you!! the 70-200 can go in the trash! 50 & 85 for weddings all day!
haha!! thanks!
Primes are great, however Canon's new zooms are so good! Their 28-70 f2, 24-70 f2.8 and now the more compact 70-200 f2.8 are all awesome. Additionally, now third parties like Sigma and Tamron has really bridged the gap with image quality, sharpness and image stabilization making lens choices are even harder! LOL Thanks for the video!
I totally agree we love our new 28-70. But I am still a prime girl on wedding days haha!!
I agree in the beginning we shop for lenses we think we want and we really do not need. We then have a bunch of lenses we don't even use. Also we need to stay away from situational lenses. Do you need a macro or can you just crop on an image? Do you need a super telephoto, do you shoot that far or do you just want it in the line up?
Thanks for watching!
Thank you!
I struggle with weddings and owning all primes! How do you deal with not owning the 24-70? I don’t own it or even rent it. I rent the 70-200 (but would love to own 135 instead) but what really bothers me, is in the fast moments, always being too close or unnecessarily far and then having to crop in. I feel like 24-70 would solve this problem. Is it just years of experience, or do you have a trick for someone without extensive wedding experience? And is the bokeh just really not the same?
I do own the 24-70. Michael loves using the 24-70 and 70-200 on wedding days. There is a style difference for sure between a zoom and prime lens. I would recommend watching a free month of KJ All Access to see how I make only prime lenses work on a wedding day. ruclips.net/user/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=791eFGEopn86tkz1i4dAc4poCuF8MTU4ODc3NzY2NkAxNTg4NjkxMjY2&q=https%3A%2F%2Fgeni.us%2Fkj-all-access-trial&v=Jc7w6fxoxgs
Great video. My first prime was an 85mm, which no one recommended, and I have never regretted it. Tbf, I don't shoot weddings except occasionally for friends. I shoot mainly one subject portraiture.
LOVE the 85!!
Would you rather spend your whole budget on 1 lens with art glass, or assemble yourself a set of lenses for the same money?
I would rather save and get primes than save and get lenses that produce images I don't like.
I've done weddings for 20 years. The only lens I ever use is, 24-105mm L 4.0, always works for every situation and the photos are tac sharp. Sometimes the 85mm 1.8 for the Bride and Groom alone if we are not pressed for time.
Thanks for sharing!
Church rules be damned! The couple are paying me to get the shot and the wedding is all about the couple. Perhaps in regular church services but this is a wedding and the photographer needs to freedom to move around to get the shot. Period.
I had a wedding where I was trying to be discreet and just move around in the back. The groom actually chewed me out because of that! Lesson learned, so long as the conversation is had with the couple prior to the ceremony, be aggressive and unapologetic about getting the shots the couple needs. Period.
Thanks for watching!
I have many L lenses but 2 that stuck on my bodies are 35mm 1.4 & 85mm 1.4. I ditched my 50mm 1.2 for 35mm n I really loved it ! It shows more background n tells everyone where it was photographed
Great set up! Thanks for watching!
You hate that lens...pleaseee throw it at me😂😂
Haha
I have heard so many opinions on which lens to get versus another and you're the first person I've ever come across that has broken it down to make logical sense. I was told that my first lens for my new camera ( which isn't the latest and greatest) the Nikon D750 should be the 85mm . What did I do! I paraded out and ordered it with my camera. I haven't had many issues with the exception of working in small spaces and whenever I have taken a portrait of a newborn the baby looked gigantic and not true tiny size. I like shooting family portraits the most . I once had a 50mm manual lens trying to save money and it was the worst choice ever. It never remained in focus. Listening to you perhaps my first lens should've been the 24-70mm , but I am happy that I have the 85.
the 24mm F1.4 is not a fisheye? and you wouldn't have wasted $2400 dollars on it as you probably sold it for a few hundred dollars loss at worst.
Thanks for the info Colin.
@@KatelynJames haha
I love how simple she is. She does a phenomenal job at presenting it with humility and not focusing on herself, but focusing on the needs of others I think that is very Christlike! It is my first time checking out some lenses. I definitely look forward to getting the 50 mm lens that is on my list because it is a need and 85 was very intriguing but that is not what I need right now! I do have a question I’m considering to purchase the Canon EOS R50, what are your thoughts on that? Is that OK to purchase for wedding photography? just the camera body.
What canon camera bodies would you prefer for wedding photography?