Wondering what the best lenses for wedding photography really are? If you’re just starting to build your gear collection, or maybe you’re wondering which lenses you should invest in next, I’ve got you covered!
You don’t need multiple camera bags full of gear to shoot a wedding beautifully. I’ve narrowed it down to just four lenses that I rely on for every wedding I photograph.
That’s it. They all fit in one camera bag and I use every single one of them.
Here are the four best lenses for wedding photography that you need to give your clients a full photography experience!
The 24-70 mm Lens
If you ever find yourself in a tight getting ready room, this lens saves the day. It’s also my go-to during receptions because I can quickly switch between wide shots on the dance floor and tight portraits of the couple with their guests without changing lenses.
It’s perfect for:
- small getting ready rooms
- dance floor candid shots
- large group shots
→ Shop the 24-70 mm lens here.
The 50 mm Lens
If you’re just starting out, this is the lens you’ll want to purchase first. This is the most versatile lens in my camera bag. You can literally shoot an entire wedding day with just this lens. It’s perfect for getting ready shots, portraits, ceremony and reception photos, as well as close-up detail shots if you pair it with these macro filters. They cost hundreds less than a micro lens and work just as well. I once had photographers compare images shot with a $20 filter vs. a 105 mm macro lens and most couldn’t tell the difference.
The 85 mm Lens
This is my absolute favorite lens. The 85 mm creates that dreamy, blurred background every client loves. It’s amazing for bride & groom portraits, bridal party shots, and engagement sessions. It’s also great for capturing reception details like centerpieces, wedding favors, and cake.
The 70-200 mm Lens
I use this lens mostly during ceremonies because it allows me to hang back, be discreet, while also capturing close-up, emotional shots. It gives beautiful compression and bokeh, like the 85 mm, but with more reach. The downside? It’s really heavy. Otherwise, it would be my go-to for portraits as well.
→ Shop the 70-200 mm lens here.
Bonus: Want macro shots without a macro lens?
If you’re on a budget, try these macro filters instead of splurging on a macro lens. Not sure how macro filters work? My blog post How to Use Macro Filters will teach you everything you need to know.
I tested them side-by-side with a 105 mm macro and had other photographers guess which photo was which. Most of them picked the macro filter shot as being shot with a professional lens. (and it cost me like $20). So yeah, don’t sleep on those filters!
So what are the best lenses for wedding photography you ask? The truth is, it depends on what you’re shooting. But with these four in your bag you’re covered from start to finish. You don’t need all the gear. Just the right gear.
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