How to Manage Lenses on a Wedding Day (Prime lenses & Bags I Use)

I am a wedding photographer who photographs wedding days with prime lenses. Which means I have a lot of tools at my disposal. It also means I have to switch my lenses out constantly. So I have to have a system for organizing what lenses I have when and in what bag. I'm going to teach you my system that allows me to be efficient while shooting so you can do the same!
BAGS:
- Airport Think Tank | www.amazon.com/dp/B01JPEVJII/...
- Kelly Moore Bag | www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...
LENSES:
-Canon 50mm 1.2 LENS | www.amazon.com/dp/B000I1YIDQ/...
-Canon 85mm 1.4 LENS | www.amazon.com/dp/B074VQ6SGM/...
-Canon 35mm 1.4 LENS | www.amazon.com/dp/B00009R6WY/...
-Canon 100m 2.8 Macro LENS | www.amazon.com/dp/B002NEGTSI/...
-Canon 24-70 2.8 LENS | www.amazon.com/dp/B009RZE6KE/...
-Canon 135mm 2.0 LENS | www.amazon.com/dp/B000053HC5/...
-CANON 70-200 2.8 LENS | www.amazon.com/dp/B0033PRWSW/...
View all of our Photography Gear HERE! | www.amazon.com/shop/katelynja...
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[@lynbryd7791]

What a treasure chest of information. Thank you for explaining the process of each lens used. Love your passion.❤️ P.S. Thank You

[@KatelynJames]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mitchellw7118]

Katelyn I just discovered your page today and am devouring all of your videos! Brilliant content you are so concise and easy to listen to. Keep up the good work 🙏

[@KatelynJames]

Yay! Thank you!

[@Gina_Michel]

Sooo so helpful! Thank you, Katelyn!

[@KatelynJames]

You're so welcome!

[@ShaynaKrause]

Gosh, so much useful information! Thank you.

[@KatelynJames]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ericaharrison3541]

[@KatelynJames]

haha there were a lot of details I'm trying to keep straight!!

[@ChristianKuyula]

I stumbled upon one of your videos and got hooked. Very informative. Thanks for sharing.

[@KatelynJames]

Awesome, thank you!

[@dons.9842]

Wow, great video! Very informative. Thank you.

[@KatelynJames]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@raearellebrad8168]

Thank you!! now back to watching my kj all access 💃🏾🖤

[@KatelynJames]

Enjoy!

[@Alicia-K]

A new video! Yay!

[@KatelynJames]

Hope you enjoy it!!

[@robsgirl7778]

So helpful, thanks for sharing

[@KatelynJames]

You are so welcome!

[@janetdoherty9911]

thank you for sharing your experience... very helpful..

[@KatelynJames]

My pleasure!

[@kaylahhammerphotography6123]

I adore you. Thank you thank you!!!

[@KatelynJames]

Wow, thank you!

[@ashmurad]

You are awesome Have learnt so much from you Thank you ❤️

[@KatelynJames]

Glad to hear it! Thanks for watching!

[@atbsigma]

2 years later this is helping me evaluate the choices I made when I got opportunities to photograph a few weddings. Some were zooms that covered the focal length you used with primes. Others, I can see where your advice would have kept me from having to switch to an iPHONE(!!) to capture certain scenes during a couple receptions I shot. What are your thoughts on shooting with two cameras at once in candid situations like the reception or dancing? I've done it and it helped me capture something that I otherwise would have missed while switching lenses, but I do find myself feeling more comfortable just shooting one camera and using a wider-angle lens to try and capture everything.

[@KatelynJames]

I have never shot with two cameras and now with the 28 to 70 I don’t think I ever will

[@loorenaoliveeira]

I have no desire to shoot weddings, yet I watched this whole thing 😂

[@KatelynJames]

Hope it was helpful!

[@samanthacrawford3028]

I love this! I have an emergency bag and styling bag I only use during pre-ceremony and put back in vehicle before ceremony. I never thought to do this with my lenses too! Such a duh moment hahaha! Thanks for sharing!!

[@KatelynJames]

Great idea!! We are always learning!!

[@samanthacrawford3028]

Yes! I learn something new every day. It's so true.

[@SouthernSister82105]

Going back and forth on what's compatible for Nikon, because I love this gear video so much.

[@KatelynJames]

Yeah sorry I don't go into detail for Nikon

[@SouthernSister82105]

@@KatelynJames it's alright, the lenses are pretty much the same. :)

[@4ksydneyeventvideographer806]

Good work !

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for the visit

[@RubiaFamilyFOURever]

Wow nice lenses friend

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks! Hope you enjoyed the video!

[@jenniveve11]

Hi Katelyn! Thank you for this video! I want to add a zoom lens to my collection, but I worry about making quick swaps during ceremonies, and don't feel like lugging around another camera on a harness. So you sticking to one camera body and managing "The Swap" is inspiring, haha. I used to leave my lenses uncapped as well last year, but this year I started worrying about damaging my lenses so I stuck to one lens for all ceremonies. Where do you send your lenses + cameras every year to be checked + calibrated + cleaned? Knowing where to send them may boost my confidence in swapping more.

[@KatelynJames]

We are a Canon Professional Services (CPS) member and send everything to Canon to be cleaned! CPS members get faster service and they will lend you a camera to use when yours is being fixed if you need it! But most of the time we get everything back within a week!

[@jenniveve11]

@@KatelynJames Wow! Thank you so so much for the reply!

[@chelseaisley3519]

Hello!! Thank you SO much for this information!! 😍😍😍 I’ve been wanting the ThinkTank bag for so long! Quick question what do you carry your lighting equipment in? Is there enough room in the ThinkTank Bag for that or do you have another bag?

[@KatelynJames]

Our 4 flashes do fit inside the ThinkTank bag. There is an outer stretchy pocket on our bag that Michael slides the 2 light stands in as well is our umbrellas.

[@mikerosario2279]

I use Nikon and build my lens collection one at a time and have the right 7 that take me from beginning to end on a wedding. I also use 2 D810 either at the same time or hand one to my assistant for general shots

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!!

[@mikerosario2279]

@@KatelynJames thanks for putting out awesome content. Do you have any videos on creating packages that sell? 🙏🏽 thank you!

[@khembre72]

Reading through the comments I have a couple questions. What protective filters do you use to protect your lens glass and if you leave the other end of the lens uncovered, do you find you have trouble with the sensor and internal components getting dirty?

[@KatelynJames]

We have never had an issue with Sensors or other components getting dirty. We use B+W lens covers like this one here: amzn.to/2N4qwYc

[@carlosazevedo7748]

Katelyn, do you have any video showing how to lit a room during a wedding with your flashes? How do you go about it, what is your reasoning, etc?

[@KatelynJames]

You can watch me do it for free here: geni.us/kj-all-access-trial

[@emilyfuller3630]

Hey Katelyn, thanks for sharing what you use! I've been watching KJ All Access and I noticed that in one of the weddings I watched where you said you were using the 50mm but the lens on your camera didn't look like the 50mm in this video. I have the 50mm 1.2 as well. It looks like a longer lens but multiple times you mentioned it being the 50 (specially in the March 2019 videos of the wedding at the distracting location). It looks like it may be the 50mm sigma art lens. I've heard great things about this lens, especially since the Canon 50 can have trouble focusing. Do you use this lens as well? I am wondering if you prefer it over the Canon 50. I appreciate your help! Thank you!!

[@KatelynJames]

Hi Emily! We do have the 50mm Sigma and I did use it for a little while to test it out. It needs to be calibrated and we haven't found the time to do that. We have been using the Canon 50's and have been really happy with them and send them off once a year to be checked and calibrated!

[@emilyfuller3630]

@@KatelynJames Thats good to know!! Thank you so much for answering my question!

[@Schleiferism]

Now that you have the R6 have you tried the 28-70 f2 I’m curious to know if it will replace a few primes as well as the 24-70?

[@KatelynJames]

Michael mainly used the 28-70 on wedding days.. I am going to stick with my primes!!

[@djack4125]

Katelyn, are you shooting your primes wide open or stopped down? Would the new RF 28-70mm F2 handle almost everything?

[@KatelynJames]

Not always shooting wide open. We just got the 28-70 and are really impressed with it!

[@deborahryan6172]

After watching this, i did some hunting and I actually found that bag!! It is a bit heavy, but it totally makes sense to me and thank you for such good advice on managing my lenses now! I don't seem to have that short strap with mine though. I only got the shoulder strap. Is yours a different model. I got the Kelly Moore Boy BaG 1.

[@KatelynJames]

I think they may have gotten rid of the short strap in the newer model. Hope you enjoy the bag!

[@toddlower5546]

Katelyn James don’t forget you can have a second strap made

[@lalaishadove2223]

So you leave the lens caps off of both ends? You're not afraid of scratches on either side of the lens? And after each shot during the reception, do you pick up the bag and move to the next spot? Not sure if I understand correctly. Thanks!

[@KatelynJames]

I do leave my lenses uncovered for the majority of the day and have never had an issue. We have protective filters on the front of our lenses. During the reception my bag stays near me during key events. Once party dancing starts, I leave my bag near our ThinkTank Bag and shoot mainly with one lens for the rest of the night.

[@sunflowrsummer5159]

What type of protective lens doesn't alter the quality

[@merycastro4704]

You videos are wonderful!! What camara do you use for you professional fotoshoots?

[@KatelynJames]

Canon R6!

[@PIXELvoiz]

very helpful :) btw what mic you used to record this video's voice? its very nice!

[@KatelynJames]

Thank you! Ty uses the Senheizer AVX Wireless Lav Kit!

[@frankpichardo8692]

Really like your videos. My photo business model has changed and now I see myself shooting more events. I like your choice of lenses but at what fstop do you shoot at this events and indoor receptions? Thanks

[@KatelynJames]

between 2.0 and 2.5

[@frankpichardo8692]

Wow!! Lens pretty open!! Thanks

[@AnneliHolm]

Thank you so much but so must ask, do not you use two camera bodies with one with the 85 and the other with the 35 for exampel? Love your channel ❤️😍🙏🏻

[@KatelynJames]

Lilla familjen Holm great question! I have found (because I shoot totally manually and use kelvin white balance) that switching between bodies actually means MORE work in post processing and actually even slows me down. I don’t keep lens caps on my lens when shooting a wedding and can swap them out so fast!

[@AnneliHolm]

Katelyn James aha, that is understandable in that case 😍 Thank you 🙏🏻❤️

[@sadiesofia7605]

Would you ever make a video of how to travel with gear? I'm super paranoid about my gear getting lost/stolen/broken in the airport.

[@KatelynJames]

Yes!! We hope to do one in the future!!

[@kiraadele6824]

I would also love to know what Michael is shooting with in comparison to you during the day!

[@KatelynJames]

Sounds like another great video!

[@sherylW315]

if you are using the 50mm or 35mm for the processional and taking pictures of grooms reaction with 135mm, then are you wearing/using 2 camera bodies?

[@KatelynJames]

I am not. I normally have the 135 on to start and then switch to the 50 as the bride and dad get closer.

[@aprillmanriquez2148]

How do you change lenses so quickly during the ceremony? Do you use two cameras?

[@KatelynJames]

I do not use two camera. I always have my bag near by and the lens caps are removed and I am able to swap them out quickly!

[@briannajoyphotography]

Hey there! I know this doesn't exactly match this video, but can you link or tell us what lighting stand you use for your flashes at receptions? Please and thank you!!

[@KatelynJames]

Here is a link to all the gear we recommend: www.amazon.com/shop/katelynjames?listId=7C2FPBK19QMT

[@briannavarner5433]

Katelyn James Oh perfect! Thank you so much!!

[@briannajoyphotography]

Love this! Thank you so much for sharing about this system! Would you mind sharing how you switch your lenses while shooting?? I know you don't use the lens caps in your bag, but do you turn your camera off then back on? I just don't quite understand how you switch your gear sooo fast! Thank you!!

[@KatelynJames]

Brianna Varner I don’t turn it off! Eek! I used to because someone said I had to and then I realize I never had issues not turning it off so I don’t worry about that now!

[@darlingtonjonesimagery9247]

Yes you actually don't need to turn off the camera with the 5d. Not sure about other bodies but I don't turn off either

[@briannajoyphotography]

@@KatelynJames Ok. Awesome! thank you!

[@briannajoyphotography]

@@darlingtonjonesimagery9247 Great! Thanks for your help!

[@don2672]

3 years later and Im still trying to figure out how to switch the lenses faster. Can you do a video? lol Do you stand and put the caps back on each lens after each switch?.....because that takes time! lol@@KatelynJames

[@lawlessjff]

Let’s see, I have the 24-70, 70-200, 100 macro, 50, and 85. Planning on getting the R6. What should be my next lens?

[@KatelynJames]

I love the 35mm if you are looking to stick with primes like I love!

[@britkavs9385]

When using the R6 with the adaptor and Canon EF 70-200 f2.8 ls II USM lens are you able to get clear airy and amazing photos still. I am trying to determine if I should sell this lens? Thanks you so much.

[@KatelynJames]

Yes, absolutely! If anything the adaptor makes the lens more accurate and faster to focus!

[@britkavs9385]

@@KatelynJames thank you so much for your quick response!

[@DebbieWatkins133]

You said you use the 100mm lens for details. I have a 18mm to 200mm lens, will the 100mm focal length do details just as good ?

[@KatelynJames]

No the Macro distinction is what you are looking for when shooting detail shots! amzn.to/3Nqao0P

[@DebbieWatkins133]

@@KatelynJames is there anything I could use until I can afford that lens ? I have prime 50mm 85mm zoom 18 to 135mm and 28 to 200mm

[@sunflowrsummer5159]

Do you also have a seperate bag for light stands?

[@KatelynJames]

No, we just slide them in the front pocket of our Thinktank!

[@darlingtonjonesimagery9247]

You answered my main question with the big bag! I was wondering how your managed because I have a big bag like that but after having it on my shoulder I'm dead! Wait - how are you controlling an on camera flash and off camera flash at the same time?

[@KatelynJames]

Darlington Jones Imagery built in transmitters in the 600-ex rts!

[@darlingtonjonesimagery9247]

@@KatelynJames brilliant! Totally makes sense! Until I have enough cash to do that I'm going to work out an alternate solution. But you definitely dropped some good knowledge in my head, got me thinking

[@tararegehr1076]

How do you switch out your lenses without missing shots?

[@cyndivanherpe9280]

Katelyn do you ever worry about securing your gear while you're at the event itself? While I know that your clients are probably amazing, you just never know who might be attending or who might be working an event that would have sticky fingers...One of my biggest worries (having had all my gear stolen before) is ever letting my bag out of my sight. It can really be difficult to have movement and feel comfortable setting down my bag in some places...(thus I have a backpack, but BOY is it heavy). Where do you keep the black bag with all your gear while you're working the reception or pre-ceremony events? And while you're out shooting portraits (in parks or the city) do you ever worry about setting down your bag and leaving it vulnerable to theft?

[@KatelynJames]

Cyndi Vanherpe that’s a risk anywhere but no, it’s all insured and we’ve never had an issue! Also, we normally store gear near the DJ so someone is always around it!

[@vitopadilla6588]

has this changed with the r6?

[@KatelynJames]

Nope!

[@jenniferweinman1602]

I'd love to hear about what michael uses when in comparison to what you use for lenses. Do you have any duplicate lenses of yours? Or just 24-70 and 70-200?

[@KatelynJames]

Sounds like another great video!

[@lluviaphillips5648]

do you only use one body? and switch lenses all day/night?

[@KatelynJames]

Yes!

[@sherylW315]

@@KatelynJames Thats alot of work. I think I would keep the 35 on one body and the 85 on another.

[@sunflowrsummer5159]

Can your clients tell which photos Michael takes?

[@KatelynJames]

I don't think so. Maybe if they remember he was at a different vantage point!

[@Cartoongurlify]

So do you keep 3 or 4 lenses on you at all times?

[@KatelynJames]

Normally 4 on a wedding day. The 50mm, 35mm, 85mm and 100mm Macro (The macro gets switched out after bridal details).

[@lainmacam5369]

why not 200mm f2?

[@KatelynJames]

There is no need to spend that kind of money for one lens. In my opinion.

[@MR-si2cd]

I use Nikon, only difference in my bag is that I don't have a 35 and instead of a 135 I have a 105mm

[@KatelynJames]

Sounds like a great set up thanks for watching!

[@kingfisher111]

Hi. Have u ever shot a indian wedding? I would luv to see u cover a indian wedding. Its quite different than what u usually cover. 😏

[@KatelynJames]

We have not! It does seem a little daunting!!

[@mdd770]

How is it best to change lenses quickly? So much lens changing is really a juggling act.

[@KatelynJames]

Lots of practice! I have gotten really fast!

[@pyroBlastM]

Essentially you need all canon lineup lol

[@KatelynJames]

It is a good place to be!

[@angelalowe5747]

Very confusing but great thanks

[@KatelynJames]

Sorry it was confusing! Let me know if you have any questions!

[@Union-force]

I am sure and believe you miss some good moments by fighting with lenses 😳😳😭

[@KatelynJames]

True!

[@adventuresofsteveandlaurie]

all i keep thinking about as I watch this is 24-70, 24-70, 24-70..... maybe i'm nuts but I want to work smarter not harder.

[@KatelynJames]

haha my husband would agree with you!! Do what fits your style!

[@derryboorman3004]

oorrrrrr, you could save a lot of hassle, buy a camera harness with 2 straps and attach 2 cameras to yourself. That way you have 2 lenses at all times.

[@KatelynJames]

I could, but I've tried it and the hassle of adjusting settings from camera to camera is literally not worth it for me. It's great for some people but if you've watched me shoot, you can tell why this would slow me down. Also, my editing it way more consistent not bouncing from camera to camera.

[@theturners5909]

Lol - there is a 70-200 ZOOM lens right in the middle. You're not a prime lens shooter exclusively.

[@KatelynJames]

Haha my husband uses the 70-200.