Grow Your Prime Lens Collection the RIGHT Way (Portrait & Wedding Photographers)

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  • Опубликовано: 26 дек 2024

Комментарии • 1,3 тыс.

  • @peenivisuals
    @peenivisuals 3 года назад +33

    Your videos are WAAAAY more helpful than channels who have millions of subscribers. Thank you!!!

  • @clicksandcrochets2929
    @clicksandcrochets2929 3 года назад +11

    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
      @KatelynJames  3 года назад

      Yes!! The 85 is my fav!!

    • @vividstudio4651
      @vividstudio4651 9 месяцев назад

      @@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.

  • @ocfilmsdotcom
    @ocfilmsdotcom 4 года назад +320

    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!

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +2

      Yay! Thank you!

    • @davidefaggian4031
      @davidefaggian4031 3 года назад +2

      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

    • @annaondara3021
      @annaondara3021 3 года назад

      I agree 100%

    • @Qew61
      @Qew61 3 года назад

      Very funny

    • @meritisak2576
      @meritisak2576 2 года назад

      @@KatelynJames good morning Katelyn in 2022 what do you recommend lenses for wedding photographer ? cheers from London

  • @mirandas8814
    @mirandas8814 4 года назад +160

    This is hands down the most practical and helpful take on lenses I've ever heard!

  • @Shaari
    @Shaari 2 года назад +7

    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.

  • @gorillaSportsShow
    @gorillaSportsShow Год назад +1

    What do you recommend as a lens for event photography using crop sensor dslr?

  • @adictcreativephotography5267
    @adictcreativephotography5267 4 года назад +103

    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!

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +6

      Thanks for watching!!

    • @MonicaHolly143
      @MonicaHolly143 4 года назад +2

      U can use 35 with crop mode and have a 55 mm

    • @ibugama6420
      @ibugama6420 4 года назад +11

      Monica , it will still have the field of view of a 35, so not pleasing for portraits.

    • @MonicaHolly143
      @MonicaHolly143 4 года назад +2

      @@ibugama6420 thats why 85 exist

    • @patrickhin4301
      @patrickhin4301 3 года назад +1

      @@ibugama6420 you mean crop sensor?

  • @lit_wick
    @lit_wick День назад

    I followed a similar path.
    50 and 28 were first z mount glass.
    Next was 85 and 20.
    I'm still using adapter 70-200, and 24-70. Don't love zooms so I'll probably stick to adapting those. I am eyeing the tamron 35-150.

  • @mrlim282
    @mrlim282 4 года назад +60

    These tips can not only apply to lenses but also to life.

  • @ronnieabellan9565
    @ronnieabellan9565 Год назад +1

    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!

  • @saleemrishah
    @saleemrishah 2 года назад +6

    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.

  • @mr.mrs.v3ng3ance13
    @mr.mrs.v3ng3ance13 3 года назад +2

    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.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  3 года назад

      Thanks so much! Glad it was helpful!

  • @danggood
    @danggood 4 года назад +5

    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!

  • @vickymatulich1924
    @vickymatulich1924 4 года назад +7

    I absolutely love my 85mm lens. It's become my new favorite and it stays on my camera almost all the time.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад

      I share the same affection for that lens!!

  • @brophoto1322
    @brophoto1322 4 года назад +12

    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!

  • @ulyssessait
    @ulyssessait Год назад +1

    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
      @edenlim5542 Год назад

      hi pal, im considering between sigma 28-70 dgdn or tamron 28-75 g2, pls advise me >.

    • @ulyssessait
      @ulyssessait Год назад

      @@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.

  • @nogerboher5266
    @nogerboher5266 3 года назад +11

    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

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  3 года назад +1

      Thanks for sharing!

    • @braydensaunders19
      @braydensaunders19 2 года назад

      What about the F1.8

    • @firefightergtx3281
      @firefightergtx3281 Год назад

      Bla bla bla its for the ONE picture that you take where you need 1.2.
      Boom! Cant do that with a 1.4

    • @set3777
      @set3777 Год назад +1

      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.

  • @magicland2446
    @magicland2446 2 года назад +1

    I have a 50mm 1.8 rf and I’m thinking about the 85mm f2 rf and then 24mm rf. I own a canon r5 and I feel I can fit the gap between the 24 and 50 by using crop mode o just crop the photo. After those lenses I want the Saint Trinity from Sigma to get everything from 14 to 200.

  • @FastPawz
    @FastPawz 4 года назад +8

    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

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +1

      It would be a great investment!

  • @REMRODFILMS
    @REMRODFILMS 3 года назад +1

    im with you!! the 70-200 can go in the trash! 50 & 85 for weddings all day!

  • @kendalnicolephotofilm
    @kendalnicolephotofilm 4 года назад +8

    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?

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +3

      Kendal Nicole LOVE this route! Try it out but you don’t have to commit totally!

    • @onlysublime
      @onlysublime 4 года назад +2

      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.

    • @travelingfromwithintanzani8005
      @travelingfromwithintanzani8005 4 года назад

      Agreed

  • @camillapool
    @camillapool 6 месяцев назад +1

    Struggled to find a video where someone explained this so well! Thank you

  • @deebea6364
    @deebea6364 4 года назад +19

    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 :)

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +1

      Thanks for watching!!

    • @BrianHallmond
      @BrianHallmond 2 года назад

      I would LOOOOOVE that 28-70 f2 but holy moly. It costs as much an R5

  • @Z_EOS
    @Z_EOS 3 года назад +1

    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

  • @robdtoys
    @robdtoys 4 года назад +19

    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.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +3

      Thats awesome Rob!

    • @medusasaurus1447
      @medusasaurus1447 4 года назад +2

      I’ve been wanting to get a 135mm

    • @PC-ul5cm
      @PC-ul5cm 4 года назад +1

      Totally agree! I call the 135 my magic lense!

    • @magicalunicorn5853
      @magicalunicorn5853 4 года назад +1

      How sharp for group shots using the 135? I’m thinking of getting it. I have 50, 85, 70-200 and 18-70.

    • @robdtoys
      @robdtoys 4 года назад +1

      @@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!

  • @ronywilson787
    @ronywilson787 2 года назад +1

    Please comment on what scenarios you use the 85 in and how it helps define your style. (love your style)

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  2 года назад

      During portrait time with the Bride and Groom! It gives me the creamiest bokeh that I love!

  • @christhompsonphotography6783
    @christhompsonphotography6783 4 года назад +21

    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.

  • @drrous9917
    @drrous9917 6 месяцев назад

    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.

  • @SarahGodfrey23
    @SarahGodfrey23 4 года назад +27

    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

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +4

      My husband Michael also loves the 70-200!

    • @eraserrx
      @eraserrx 4 года назад +2

      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.

    • @SKI4EVER9
      @SKI4EVER9 4 года назад +1

      @@eraserrx ya f2.8 vs f2 is not a huge difference. The zoom range out weighs the one stop of light

    • @ocfilmsdotcom
      @ocfilmsdotcom 4 года назад

      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!

    • @sandeemilhouse555
      @sandeemilhouse555 3 года назад +1

      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!

  • @rupunzel6299
    @rupunzel6299 2 года назад +1

    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.

  • @iamfyrus
    @iamfyrus 4 года назад +3

    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)

  • @Alex-is3ru
    @Alex-is3ru 3 года назад +1

    Thank you so much. Now I feel much better with my lens group

  • @Larimuss
    @Larimuss 4 года назад +4

    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.

  • @planetdee3587
    @planetdee3587 3 года назад +1

    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?

  •  4 года назад +3

    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

  • @MattHalpain
    @MattHalpain 3 года назад +1

    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.

  • @TheDolphins21
    @TheDolphins21 4 года назад +32

    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. 😁

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +2

      Love it!

    • @aldringeorge2786
      @aldringeorge2786 4 года назад +3

      50 mm f1.8 STM is a great lens.

    • @Bobi-ow6ou
      @Bobi-ow6ou 4 года назад +1

      You can get that lens cheap on eBay

    • @Dustyphoto915
      @Dustyphoto915 3 года назад

      Score! It’s an awesome lens. Makes a dslr feel like a point and shoot. Lowers the intimidation factor quite a bit.

    • @felicityannchen
      @felicityannchen 2 года назад +1

      That was my first prime lens- also a Christmas present 🥹❤️ I hope you love it!!

  • @indraneilbiswas
    @indraneilbiswas 4 года назад +1

    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.

  • @schaerfentiefe1967
    @schaerfentiefe1967 4 года назад +33

    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).

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +1

      true!

    • @JT-fm4ye
      @JT-fm4ye 3 года назад

      What about when you have to do shots with rings etc?

    • @schaerfentiefe1967
      @schaerfentiefe1967 3 года назад

      @@JT-fm4ye then you need of course an additional macro lens...

    • @ir0nm0nkey123
      @ir0nm0nkey123 3 года назад

      It’s my first lens and also still my favorite lens of all time. Even tho I have all the other ones.☺️☺️

    • @angelloenraw
      @angelloenraw 2 года назад

      In fact, is my go to combo 35mm 1.4 and 85mm 1.4 in two FF bodies

  • @shang-hsienyang1284
    @shang-hsienyang1284 2 года назад +2

    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.

  • @Theroundtable125
    @Theroundtable125 3 года назад +3

    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?

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  3 года назад +3

      The 70-200 may do better in low light

  • @drusauza8291
    @drusauza8291 3 года назад +1

    Good video. I use a macro 100 and zoom 14-35. Covers most cases

  • @thaipepperlasvegas6693
    @thaipepperlasvegas6693 4 года назад +3

    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!!!

  • @fuweiqu1810
    @fuweiqu1810 4 года назад +1

    I have canon 24-70 f 2.8. I am struggling to decide which lenses to buy sony 70-200 f 4 , or Samsung 85mm f1.4(just switch to sony) for portrait. after watching your video. I will go for 85mm f 1.4.thank you!

  • @sarahhughes5755
    @sarahhughes5755 4 года назад +4

    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!!

  • @karolinealicea1216
    @karolinealicea1216 2 года назад +1

    I'm just starting out and have a kit lense. I'm looking to buy a new lense and this was really helpful!

  • @bongmichdones9168
    @bongmichdones9168 4 года назад +5

    i agree with 35mm first based on experience as a wedding photog

  • @derxiong7583
    @derxiong7583 3 года назад +1

    What were the three lenses you recommended for pictures with kids and movement again? I can’t figure it out .. so new at this! Thanks!

  • @juurstudio
    @juurstudio 4 года назад +20

    Well.. I'm actually thinking almost in completely opposite way, after general 24-105 zoom, go 35, then 85, and perhaps skip 50 altogether.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +1

      Thanks for sharing!

    • @eliskatesarova3104
      @eliskatesarova3104 3 года назад +3

      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 :)

  • @douglaskhan4692
    @douglaskhan4692 Год назад +1

    Thank you. This was the most helpful tips for me although I shoot Nikon

  • @charlesmascari8197
    @charlesmascari8197 4 года назад +4

    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.

  • @iroegbulemgodswill8091
    @iroegbulemgodswill8091 3 года назад +1

    This well explained especially the priority orderliness

  • @Adomarf
    @Adomarf 4 года назад +4

    After extensive over analyzing what lenses to buy, you absolutely nailed what direction I actually went. Bravo

  • @noeygarza64
    @noeygarza64 2 года назад +1

    I also have the Canon 300mm f2.8 II prime. Used with a Canon 1DX Mark iii. Photos are unbelievable.

  • @VisualMasterpiece
    @VisualMasterpiece 4 года назад +3

    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.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад

      Thanks for sharing and watching!

  • @freddiefernandez522
    @freddiefernandez522 3 года назад +1

    nice.. my combo.. 35mm for groupshots.. 70-200 for the rest..

  • @robbie154
    @robbie154 4 года назад +103

    85 is a need. Do whole weddings with that lens. everyones needs are different.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +10

      Totally true! Thanks for watching!

    • @Tritiumfusion
      @Tritiumfusion 4 года назад +4

      I'm using a 90mm tamron, and it's become my daily driver

    • @azakerahman1471
      @azakerahman1471 4 года назад +1

      Totally agree

    • @court1619
      @court1619 4 года назад +10

      people have told me a 50 on a crop sensor is like an 85 on a full frame. is this true?

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +2

      @@court1619 yes!

  • @MaximC
    @MaximC 3 года назад +1

    I'm trying to figure out what to buy as first (and possibly last) lens, for an amateur, for taking photos of places and things, as tourist.
    I'm trying to figure out which one between 35mm and 50mm.
    Do you have a video on this topic?

    • @MaximC
      @MaximC 3 года назад

      And it will likely be some budget lens, like Yongnuo. Unfortunately don't have money for proper expensive lenses.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  2 года назад +1

      I like the 50!

  • @calebginsberg5224
    @calebginsberg5224 4 года назад +38

    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.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +2

      Great to hear! Me too!!

    • @kennypringle4580
      @kennypringle4580 4 года назад

      Me too👍

    • @rafalgelzok
      @rafalgelzok 3 года назад

      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.

    • @calebginsberg5224
      @calebginsberg5224 3 года назад

      @@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.

    • @rafalgelzok
      @rafalgelzok 3 года назад

      @@calebginsberg5224 you shoot more weddings or portrait with it?

  • @ankanhalder8341
    @ankanhalder8341 2 года назад +1

    This is a very helpful, informative, logical video

  • @RockyMaiviaMiami
    @RockyMaiviaMiami 4 года назад +3

    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

  • @allanawilks7232
    @allanawilks7232 3 года назад +1

    I swapped out my canon 50mm 1.4 lens for the sigma 35mm 1.4 art. Definitely want the canon 35mm 1.4 next if it'd worth the swap? Prefer 35mm over 50mm :)

  • @JZuckerwatte123
    @JZuckerwatte123 4 года назад +3

    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

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад

      We will put that on the list of potential upcoming videos!! Thanks

  • @rupunzel6299
    @rupunzel6299 2 года назад +1

    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.

  • @jessicakovach4203
    @jessicakovach4203 4 года назад +3

    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.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад

      I don't know if you need a 70-200 if it is a small ceremony! Hope that helps! Glad you enjoyed the video!!

  • @popyv8
    @popyv8 3 года назад +1

    I just saw the video of you saying zoom lens are better. Photography evolve and Im glad to see photographers too

  • @mirasga
    @mirasga 4 года назад +4

    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. 😂

  • @lcdy1280
    @lcdy1280 4 года назад +1

    Nice video and very informative! I just buy my first DSLR camera Canon EOS 800D ! This lenses are to expensive for me right now! The kit lens is a 18-55mm ! What cheap all around lens should I buy? Thanks!

  • @triskelion86
    @triskelion86 3 года назад +20

    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.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  3 года назад +2

      I can respect that! Thanks for watching!

    • @AR-vf7vg
      @AR-vf7vg Год назад

      Dont spoil it !!! If You want to be accepted here, follow the aim of the gospel.

  • @MR-tq2tu
    @MR-tq2tu 4 года назад +1

    My two favourite lenses are USM 22-55 and a 30 year old EF 75-300 mark I

  • @yashy101
    @yashy101 4 года назад +3

    85mm for life !

  • @mareksykora3891
    @mareksykora3891 6 месяцев назад

    long time since introducing this video... currently I ended with 24-70/2.8, 35/1.4 and 100/2.8 macro... that's my holy trinity :) last week playing with 16-35, not sure if I keep... I had non-L 24, 50 and 85mm, but not like them much...

  • @tt__shin
    @tt__shin 4 года назад +6

    Started watching for buying tips, stayed for life tips

  • @chasesunshine.6144
    @chasesunshine.6144 2 года назад +2

    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!

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  2 года назад

      Makes total sense! Thanks for sharing Sammie!!

    • @paulfresh
      @paulfresh 2 года назад

      who hates it? my fav lens is 50mm 1.2 and the 70-200 2.8 lol

    • @mjudkins1371
      @mjudkins1371 Год назад

      I really Love 70-200 2.8

  • @KyraRane
    @KyraRane 4 года назад +4

    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.

  • @juliavito2882
    @juliavito2882 2 года назад +1

    Hi! I’m new to photography, and just starting out my portrait/lifestyle photography journey. I was gifted an 85mm as my first lens! What is the lens that you suggest as my next purchase? I will be shooting a mix of couples, family(with children), newborn, etc.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  2 года назад

      The 24-70 2.8 if you dont care about shooting prime.

  • @samanthachester4009
    @samanthachester4009 4 года назад +3

    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?

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад

      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!

    • @cyndivanherpe9280
      @cyndivanherpe9280 4 года назад

      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!)

  • @zigmarskupriss7131
    @zigmarskupriss7131 4 года назад +1

    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.

  • @eraserrx
    @eraserrx 4 года назад +6

    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.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +3

      Agree to disagree haha Thanks for watching!

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +2

      To each their own! I love my primes!

  • @tobisonbrown
    @tobisonbrown Год назад

    This was really helpful. I’m switching to canon mirrorless after being on Olympus for years and am dreading the lens purchases

  • @Ladymusicc
    @Ladymusicc 3 года назад +5

    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.

  • @mikerichardson60
    @mikerichardson60 3 года назад +1

    Had a good chuckle about the 50 f/1.2 being heavy. Try lugging around my Sigma 50mm ART or even better my Sigma 105 f/1.4 ART at roughly 4lbs.

  • @elizaporter9673
    @elizaporter9673 4 года назад +3

    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!

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +1

      I always recommend people rent lenses before buying to see if they can tell that big of a difference!

  • @carlog234
    @carlog234 2 года назад +1

    well done! I'm a beginner and shoot primarily concerts with a nikon 35mm 1.8, looking to move into my next lens and i hear that the 24-70 might be the next step. what do you think?

  • @ohsnaptutorials5409
    @ohsnaptutorials5409 4 года назад +5

    Thank you for being a blessing and sharing your knowledge. It’s such a gift you’re giving.

  • @geertsmets178
    @geertsmets178 3 года назад +1

    I have a nikon 18-55 f3.5-5.6 kitlens. What do I as a real beginner, buying first a 50mm prime or better a 35mm prime lens together with this kitlens? Thanks in advance.

  • @krazyk57
    @krazyk57 4 года назад +6

    Spot on with the “want not need thing”...🤙

  • @gburgMD
    @gburgMD Год назад +1

    The need/want advice is the best advice on RUclips. Let's face it, most of us are photo enthusiasts, not professionals.

  • @essiraakel
    @essiraakel 4 года назад +4

    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?

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад +1

      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

  • @jonhannula2022
    @jonhannula2022 4 месяца назад

    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?

  • @jessepace8868
    @jessepace8868 3 года назад +3

    Would you rather spend your whole budget on 1 lens with art glass, or assemble yourself a set of lenses for the same money?

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  3 года назад

      I would rather save and get primes than save and get lenses that produce images I don't like.

  • @sidehustlers336
    @sidehustlers336 2 года назад +1

    Thanks for this. Have a 20mm 1.4, 85mm 1.4, 105mm 1.4 for full frame along with a 100mm 2.8 macro. Next wil be 35 and 50 . Also have 14-24 , 24-70, an 70-200 2.8 but I’m hooked on the prime look.
    On APS-C I have 16mm 30mm and 56mm 1.4 but I want all full frame

  • @jaytcapinpin
    @jaytcapinpin 3 года назад +5

    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!

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  3 года назад

      I totally agree we love our new 28-70. But I am still a prime girl on wedding days haha!!

  • @neilpiper9889
    @neilpiper9889 4 года назад +1

    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.

  • @bassandtrebleclef
    @bassandtrebleclef Год назад +41

    24mm isn't a fish eye lens.

    • @tobisonbrown
      @tobisonbrown Год назад +7

      Such a helpful comment. So glad you submitted this feedback years after the video was published.

    • @Kumofan
      @Kumofan Год назад +16

      @@tobisonbrownSuch a helpful reply. So glad you submitted this review months after the initial comment was posted.

    • @thanhbok26b
      @thanhbok26b 11 месяцев назад +8

      Such a helpful reply to a helpful reply. You submit this weeks after the reply to a reply have been submitted.

    • @kilowhiskeywon3302
      @kilowhiskeywon3302 9 месяцев назад +5

      Now that it's been a couple months since the last helpful comment. Fisheye lenses come in many sizes. Even into the telephoto range.

    • @Dejan_23Unlimited
      @Dejan_23Unlimited 8 месяцев назад +1

      @@tobisonbrown...am I too late for the party 😏

  • @lighthunter1980
    @lighthunter1980 4 года назад +2

    I have the 70-200/2.8 L II and I don't love it mainly for its size and weight, however, the results always blow me away. It's so sharp and AF is super fast. I had the 135/2.0 L before and it was great but I missed having IS at this focal length. It's only one stop faster and the IS on the zoom easily makes up for it.
    Also, I would recommend starting with a 35 prime which is much more versatile than the 50. And I'd skip the 50 and would go straight to 85. I have a 24, 35 and 50 prime but often feel I should have gone with the 85 instead of 50. 35 and 50 are too close.

    • @KatelynJames
      @KatelynJames  4 года назад

      Thanks for sharing and for watching!!

  • @colincarter3529
    @colincarter3529 4 года назад +12

    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.

  • @bethechange671
    @bethechange671 3 года назад +1

    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.

  • @mogambianunda9186
    @mogambianunda9186 4 года назад +3

    You hate that lens...pleaseee throw it at me😂😂

  • @viralmyanmar3991
    @viralmyanmar3991 2 года назад +1

    I like your video and it’s informative. Good prime lens are expensive and i got only one 85Gmaster prime len and 16-35 Gmaster