by Stacie Jensen, owner of Rock My Photography and Colorvale Actions
Wedding photography is a pricy niche! Quality lenses come with a big price tag however the investment is well worth it! Lenses used in the wedding business are high quality glass and cover a wide focal length. Below you will find a list of lenses that are perfect for wedding photography as well as any other type of session!
85mm 1.4 – This lens is perfect for portraits. The depth of field allows for very yummy bokeh and a perfect dreamy compliment to a wedding. It is also great for “the little details” photographs such as flowers, place settings, cakes etc. I find that I use this lens 70% of the time during a wedding. With the ability to shoot wide open you are provided much more light which is very helpful during “the dance”.
This lens is on my camera the entire portrait session with bride and groom. I also use it for much of the reception.
24-70mm 2.8 – This lens is amazing for group shots and ceremonies. It is fantastic because it provides a wide-angle which allows you to be close to your subject in tight spaces. Perfect for chapels and small rooms where bride/groom are signing marriage license. This is a very useful lens when you have a large bridal party because you can be close enough for them to hear your direction while fitting everyone into the frame.
This lens is on my camera during the entire ceremony as well as the group photos after the ceremony. I also use it for some of the reception so that I can get dancing and room shots at a wide angle.
70-200mm 2.8 – This lens is great for the ceremony. It allows you to be at a distance without missing anything! Perfect for getting the first kiss.
This lens is on my camera during the entire ceremony. I carry two cameras during the ceremony.
105mm 2.8 – Absolutely my favorite macro lens for weddings. It is the perfect solution to wedding ring photographs and any other small items that you want a nice close up shot with. Also this lens is used commonly as a portrait lens, it too creates beautiful bokeh!
This lens is something I put on and take off after I get the desired “accessory” shot! It is a must for me even though I don’t use it for long periods of time. I like to provide my bride and groom a true macro shot of the rings.
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Hi Stacie, I loved this article. Very helpful & definitely interesting. Makes me want to run out and buy all the lenses you spoke of…GREAT ARTICLE! =)