I Used Prime Lenses Exclusively For 6 Months (Thoughts From A Zoom Photographer)

[@MrCochise71]

I'm a prime Lens shooter. I've sold all my zooms ( except my 70-300). I use 35mm 24mm 50mm 85mm. But I shoot landscapes. Yes I use 85 also for Landscapes lol. 85 definitely has it's place( one of my favorite lenses). I just love the results from primes. For me it made me a better photographer. Due to having to use my feet. But I think zooms are fantastic too. I think it depends on the kind of work a person does. Wedding's imo would be tougher with all primes for obvious reasons. Macro lens will be my next lens. Great video Eric!

[@Eric_Rossi]

thats why we all have a different workflow and we pick what works for us. Thats what makes this great!

[@MrCochise71]

Eric Rossi Have you done a macro lens review? Because I'm on the fence on which to buy. I'm a Canon guy.

[@john_murch]

MrCochise71, I like your prime lens set-up!

[@MrCochise71]

john murch thanks! I love these primes. And easy to carry around.

[@Ranblv]

I use both. see no reason to limit myself. I mainly use the 10-18 for wide shots and 85mm prime for portraits, 100mm macro for macro and 17-50 for walk around shoots. Rarely I use the 24-105 for daylight events.

[@Eric_Rossi]

yeah, nothing wrong with using what you need and being hybrid. I hate labels in photography lol

[@christianjadot4459]

I use my primes for 50 mm and wider (15mm, 28mm and 50mm), and zooms for the telephotos (70-200mm). Most of the time you can use your feet for the wider angle shots. (I mainly do news/street photography, and I don't do events often, which it is understandable to use a zoom.) I am very much addicted to my primes, it was a hard choice going there, but I am so glad I did. It has made me a better photographer over all. I do need a portrait lens though.

[@lev_anni]

you're covered with 70-200 isn't you? or you wish to have a faster one?

[@themaninironmask]

I have 3 prime lenses and awaiting my 4th that will be at my door in a couple hours. I don't mind changing them often on shoots, I feel you get quick at it and it gives a nice moment of silence for the model to take some breaths and readjust if she needs to. Also can small talk during that time and generally taking a step back every once in a while in shoots has helped a lot in my opinion.

[@carly9355]

I use both. I like zooms for when I know I can’t be switching lenses out often. I love my primes because the image quality is great. My 24mm stm lens for my crop body is my favorite throw on and walk around lens.

[@Eric_Rossi]

yeah I feel the same, a good mix!

[@MeAMuse]

My philosophy is with this is to have dedicated primes for certain types of photos you shoot a lot. I have a 12mm F2.8 because I do astro, a 35mm for street / low light, and a 90mm Macro for Macro and super sharp portraits. Everything else - I am on a zoom. A lot of the time I am on an ultrazoom because I specifically do not want to be changing lenses all the time (although you can't really do that for a wedding), I have found that when I am hiking and traveling, I would rather take an image quality hit than miss a moment because I am switching lenses (it also helps you not be that pain in the ass camera guy when you are with others). If I do see a specific scene that I know a prime will work, or a tripod will make a big difference - I will be open to switching things up and slowing things down. In photography you are always working around some constraints - these are the ones that work for me most the time.

[@JimS0cks]

i did primes for 2 years. taught me a lot. how to hold a camera steady, my friends call me human tripod. i can walk around with a 50mm equivalent pretty steady now. but over the years, i got lazy, starting to do zooms again, but the image quality defintely took a hit when it came to pictures.

[@exploreatwill1419]

I moved to Prime only for 2 Reasons, a) Aperture b) using zoom's did not make my backpack lighter or smaller. I currently use the 24-f1.4, 50-f1.4, 100-f2.8Macro and 135-f1.8. So that is 4 lenses total, and with Zoom's (for a comparable focal range and features) I would still have the 24-70, 70-200 and the 100mm macro, that would be 3 lenses. So from a weight and size perspective, they are about the same since the 70-200 actually takes up more space than my 24 and 50 put together and the overall cost of my Prime set up is actually cheaper than the zoom setup. I do miss zoom lenses all the time, but it is always a give and take, can't have it all I guess :) I do hate swapping lenses all the freaking time, but when I need to stop down to f1.4 in the evening or night I can.. so it is a wash at the end in my opinion. But I do think if you are a Wedding photographer, you will need both Zoom and Prime, I would not be clowning around changing prime lenses at a wedding and missing an important movement. But I am not a Wedding photographer or someone who has mission critical needs to get the shot or go home situation, so Primes work just fine for me at the moment.

[@Eric_Rossi]

Yeah for events and weddings its key, but like you said, if not shooting those primes are key for most others

[@jamesspicewilliams8835]

Primarily events and portraits these days. Stills guy with some video. Moving from Nikon D600's to D750's. Decided to commit to 3 zooms on these bodies. I hate changing lenses in the field. My fear of dust and dirt on the sensors rule. In the camera room I've been shooting the 105 dc and 60 micro screw drive lenses. I say all of this to say I think you're on point. Keep all your glass. Utilize them to fit your style of shooting. An average lens does even better when you throw good light at it. I wish shooters these days would value light and composition more than gear. Great job Eric. Enjoyed this one.

[@nerwin]

I've changed my lenses in rain, snow and on top of a mountain. No problem. Yes, it has dust on the sensor but it is what it is. Nothing I worry about anymore. Just get a sensor swap and clean it. Simple as that! Don't let the fear of dust getting on your sensor prevent you from getting that shot.

[@jamesspicewilliams8835]

Why run the risk of introducing dust and dirt in your system while you're shooting. Cleaning your sensor after a session is a given. Discovering dirt or dust on your footage after shooting your video coverage is another thing. You can't just clone out and keep it moving like you can with stills. I usually get the shot. I just don't want it flawed beyond repair when I pull it up on my monitor. I take it you're a prime shooter?

[@nerwin]

I shoot both zooms and primes but I typically only shoot stills. Didn't think about the video aspect. As for video though, I'd use a variable ND filter to so my aperture is larger so I wont see my dirty sensor lol. I guess I'm just not paranoid when it comes to changing lenses. It's not like I don't take precautions when changing lenses in the field, I try to be careful as possible. But I'm going to miss a shot because I had my wide angle on when I need my telephoto. But when you shoot video, then yeah, I'd want the sensor to be clean as possible as well.

[@Eric_Rossi]

Thanks James. Changing lenses is another good point if you worried as you mentioned good to point add. I clean my gear a lot regardless so it doesnt bother me a ton, but I totally see why it bothers people.

[@strouze]

A good 24-70 is like a 4 in 1. Switching lenses is a luxury you don't always have.

[@Eric_Rossi]

a 24-70 is key for most in my opinion

[@rumporridge1]

strouze 24-70 2.8 is truly a dope lens.

[@nerwin]

I like using both so it really depends on the situation and what kind of photo I am trying to make. If I'm in a dynamic situation where things are changing constantly, like an event for an example, then a zoom is ideal. If I'm on a photo walk, I often like to bring one lens which usually is a prime and force myself to make compositions with it or I'll just bring a zoom. It varies with my mood. Every photographer should have both prime and zoom kits. Period.

[@Eric_Rossi]

yeah, in my opinion, it just comes down to the type of gig and shooters needs

[@lit_wick]

Got an rx100m3 this weekend. Ive shot nothing but primes on my d700 for years and wanted something smaller, and with a zoom. Love the little thing. Took it out this weekend and did some street shooting, amazingly fun. I feel the zoom of my new little sony is going to be fun for casual shoots, while the primes on my dslr have been better when i want to squeeze more quality out of my setup. The sony is for when photography isnt the main objective of my day. The primes and dslr are for when my objective is photography. if that makes sense. Great video!

[@kennypringle4580]

I’ve been using the Nikon 24-70 f2.8 and the 70-200 f2.8 VR11 on a dual camera strap when I shoot events and weddings. I reached the point where I’ve sometimes replaced the 70-200 with my 85 f1.8 do to size and WEIGHT. I’m about to sell the 70-200 and buy the 135 f2 DC. I’ll mix it up with my 85 and 105 and then have my 24-70 on the other side. I think this will be a good plan. I’ll find out soon.

[@JohnMayfield-NS]

Gross generalization, but... I think it all comes down to what you shoot. In more static situations primes are the way to go, in high movement situations zooms are the way to go. What's of more importance is the quality of the lens. Regardless of which you shoot, getting the highest quality you can afford is important. I also think with Sigma's Art series and Tamron stepping up their game the gap between prime and zoom is narrowing in terms of quality and results.

[@Eric_Rossi]

I dont think thats a broad statement. It makes sense.

[@CristianStancu]

I like to shoot primes, so for weddings i use 35mm and 85mm. For zooms most people will go for 24-70mm and 70-200mm. I have found that i don't shoot too much around 50mm, so for zooms i go with 16-35mm and a 70-200mm. Depending on the conditions i can choose to use primes or zooms. But if i'm on vacation or traveling with family and friends, a 24-70mm is enough.

[@Eric_Rossi]

Yeah my go twos were mainly the 16-35 and 24-70. I really only used the 70-200 for quick portrait stuff or of them walking down the aisle. The 24-70 lived on the camera mostly.

[@fatdoi003]

used to be zoom shooter but the solid rendering & details of primes changed me over

[@Eric_Rossi]

yeah primes can be a bit sharper

[@andychandler3992]

I just started and so I'm using three primes, but I'm not even worrying about zoom until I get better. My go-to is the 35mm f2.0

[@kylestewart4444]

I gravitate much more to primes. Sure, changing lenses isn't the funnest part of photography/videography but I've never used a zoom lens that was equally brilliant at each of the most common focal lengths. Usually the quality drops off a bit at one end or another, in my limited experience. It just makes a bit more sense for me to go for lenses that were designed to represent a single focal length incredibly well rather than trying to be a jack of all trades. For my a7III, I think the Batis 25 f/2, Sonnar 55 f/1.8 and Sony 85 f/1.8 will get you plenty of focal diversity, incredible low light performance, less handheld/gimbal weight and superior optical quality compared to the 24-70 f/4 or f/2.8. Sure, you have to carry three lenses instead of one and you have to change lenses from time to time but I think the overall performance and image quality in both mid-day and lowlight settings are worth it.

[@kyawminhtut9666]

I love prime My favorites are 35mm 1.4 50mm 1.4 85mm 1.4

[@Eric_Rossi]

great lenses!

[@lev_anni]

+ 135mm 1.8 + 300mm 2.8

[@CJamesPhoto]

Great stuff man! think id like to put myself through the same kind of thing too, I am mainly a zoom shooter, but when it comes to portraits them id use a prime more. Sometimes i felt like having a prime was easy just because you dont have much choice, But zooms are definitely work horses for me :)

[@Eric_Rossi]

It was just something fun and challenging to do. See how it was. Maybe its worth renting a prime lens for a bit and seeing how you like it

[@CJamesPhoto]

Eric Rossi Yeah certainly :)

[@rikstam6903]

I changed to a fast zoom lens coming from primes only. I am returning the lens because I feel like just taking a prime with you makes you more creative and you dont have to think about changing the vocal length all the time

[@Rocking_J_Studio]

I have a number of primes because I shoot a lot of film in addition to my digital. I prefer the primes because of the sharpness compared to zooms, but I love the convenience of zooms. It really depends on what it is I'm shooting. When I have time to set up a tripod, use my spot meter and really settle in and enjoy the shoot, I'll use primes. If I'm running and gunning, I'll use zooms. Both have their pros and cons.

[@Eric_Rossi]

Like everything they have their pros and cons. But what's interesting is what I keep seeing in these comments. If shooting film, which I probably would too, people are mainly prime shooters.

[@markharris5771]

John Wilkinson Totally off topic but for a long time I've used a Weston Masters II when shooting film. However, a friend of mine recently moved and was downsizing, and very generously he let me have a good as new analogue spot meter. I shot a roll of 120 Portra 160 on my Bronica ETRSi Monday and the difference it made is amazing. I don’t think I'll use it with my 35mm cameras because that is a much faster style, but it’s living in my Bronica case.

[@Rocking_J_Studio]

Mark Harris - Handheld metering is the only way to go when shooting medium format in my opinion. I use a Sekonic L-758DR because it does spot, incident and flash. I've got the RT-32CTL Transmitter in the meter so I can remotely trip my PocketWizards for light readings. Great combination! I shoot Mamiya RB67, Hasselblad 500 CM & a Sinar F, so I've about worn the knobs off of my Sekonic. The other meter I'd like to have is the Pentax Digital Spot Meter, but they're hard to find these days. I ran across one awhile back on a site and should have picked it up when I had the chance because now I can't find it again. D'oh!

[@markharris5771]

John Wilkinson I use a Sekonic in the studio but only a L308s (I think), I only used speedlights in the studio when I bought it, if I was to buy one now I go higher specs. Either the RB or RZ is my next camera, but don’t tell my wife.

[@triggrhaapi]

I've used both. I see merits in both. For me, I find that my own photography gets lazy if I use a zoom, where if I'm using primes I have to work harder to get a good shot. Just my personal experience.

[@Eric_Rossi]

hey and since that works for you it's totally worth it!

[@markjacobs6294]

I've been a portrait professional since 1983. I use a D800 with a 24-120 F/4 for 95% of my work now. "Back in the day" I used a Bronica ETRS with a 50 wide, 75 normal and 150 long for weddings. Zooms were not an option and neither was spray and pray shooting at 50+ cents a click.

[@markharris5771]

I tend to use a mix for digital cameras, my food photography is almost pure 100mm L f2.8 macro, I use my Samyang 14mm a lot for landscape and then I have the 50mm f1.4 that I rarely use for digital but it often lives on my EOS 5. I do use my 16-35 a lot and my 70-200 heck of a lot for landscapes but rarely my Tamron 24-70, I think that’s because I usually have my 7DII with me and then I can use my Sigma 18-35 f1.8. My big lens is the Sigma 150-600 Sport as I definitely can’t afford a prime 600mm. Strangely though I only ever use primes on analogue cameras, and 50mm is one of my favourite lenses with the 135 coming second. Great video as always Eric, I struggle to understand why someone’s choices of lens can be controversial I use f4s as they are best for landscape and if I’m using my 70-200 for wildlife it’s birds in flight so Im at f8 anyhow. But I do like my lenses to have IS.

[@Eric_Rossi]

People dislike hearing others opinions as it differs from theirs or makes them feel insecure. Just my thoughts on that. None of it matters though, like you said, it just comes down to what the photographer needs. It's great we have the options we do!

[@AriannaHlavacBeauty]

I’m a zoom portrait photographer! I do worry less about changing lenses and work harder on being creative! Plus I’m not a huge bokeh fan. I like textures and wider spaces of focus.

[@SeanPhotograph]

I primarily use prime lens in studio or landscape work but for events 70-200 all the way with either a 35 or 50, as I am still saving for a 24-70. Love primes because of the image quality, also I can pick out the lenses I can see needed for the situation, saving weight and space.

[@Eric_Rossi]

yeah in studio work, primes are a huge win

[@CrisConstantin]

I used to shoot zooms primarily ( hence the alias). For 3 years I shoot hybrid but only because I use the 70-200mm which is my go yo lens for everything. I love that lens tho because of it I can't say I am prime lens shooter. Right now my grab and go line -up is 35, 50, 135 and 70-200. Cheers Eric.

[@Eric_Rossi]

and theres nothing wrong with being hybrid lol!

[@CrisConstantin]

Eric Rossi not at all man 🤘

[@GuntherVM]

50mm prime for general personal photography and 24-70 f2.8 for anything professional, I like being able to move quickly and adjust. Especially considering I do a lot of natural light portrait photography in more urban environments and I don't like carrying around my camera bag if I can avoid it,

[@GeoffreyCapes]

I used my 24-70 f2.8 as training wheels for sometime, analysed my favourite focal lengths in post and eventually bought a few primes at those focal lengths… So have in primes the 24mm f1.4, a 50mm f1.2, a 85mm f1.2. Still have the 24-70mm f2.8 mk2 but hate the lens creep when it’s down by my hip, that’s my only negative, it’s a real workhorse! 70-200mm f2.8 will always be around it’s just the size of it with a two camera setup.

[@mleachphoto]

Since going to Sony I have been relying more on prime lenses as of late and it does really help me to be honest. I thought I would miss zooming in and zooming out but, to be honest, I don't!

[@Eric_Rossi]

See thats where Sony gets iffy, their zoom lenses tend to be pretty heavy for the bodies.

[@mleachphoto]

I do completely agree. My dream lens has been the 24-70mm f2.8 which is an absolute beast of a lens, considering mirrorless was meant to make things smaller. For now I am sticking with the Samyang 35mm f2.8 and the Sony 50mm f1.8 FE which have been really helpful.

[@merrymanson]

I sold my 24-70, got a 35 1.8 Z and my biggest struggle is composition. Its super easy to fix your shot when you're with zooms, but with primes you need to move fast

[@Eric_Rossi]

100%, thats super common when going from zoom to primes. Just getting used to knowing what the shot will look like and knowing where to stand with what focal length you have. Everyone goes through that

[@quigonjim8364]

I agree that 24-70 mm lens is essential in your photography arsenal. But I found that primes such the 50mm 1.4 is great for learning how to take photos. At the end of the day, I’m a zoom shooter ...

[@Eric_Rossi]

Oh totally, primes when starting to learn more can help a lot

[@kylesharpstudios6794]

I've gone back and forth over the years. Currently, I just switched from Canon to Sony, so I'm starting with primes. It's just more cost effective than getting the "pro" zooms that sony has. Starting in a couple of days, I'll be shooting all my weddings with the 28mm f/2, the 55mm f/1.8, and the 85mm f/1.8. That combo costs around 2 grand, less than even ONE of sony's zooms. I'll get them eventually, but for now, it's back to primes for me!

[@Eric_Rossi]

and they will work just fine for you no doubt!

[@kylesharpstudios6794]

So far, so good! I've done a few portrait sessions with them over the last week and a half, but my first wedding with my Sony kit is this weekend. We'll see if they hold up in super low light!

[@QuietOC]

I'll use whatever. Today is Day 45 of the year, so there's a little Minolta MD 45mm F2 on a Zhongyi Lens Turbo II on my A5000. I am not fond of big heavy lenses. I don't miss my 100-400 or 70-200 F2.8. The 16-50 F2.8 and 50-150 F2.8 are passable.

[@J.R.Luchaa]

Prime shooter have sigma art 35, 50, 85mm and love them!! But I also use 70-200mm. But my favorite lens is the 35mm

[@Eric_Rossi]

Yeah Sigma makes some solid art primes!

[@JuanLopez-oz9kh]

I was thinking of going F4 for my zooms, and 3 primes, 14, 35 and 85mm 1.8 for any low lights. Agree the versatility of the zoom , to me is better than a blur backgrounds.

[@Eric_Rossi]

yup, it just depends on what you're shooting and the workflow you want to have

[@GarryBurgess]

both 85 1.4 for portraits, zoom for ceremonies, zoom for a lot of group shots so that I'm not moving all over the place. I no longer have macro, but it would be nice for some detail shots.

[@DavidsOldChannel]

Personally, I would not touch a zoom a lens anymore, and it's really due to their optical complexity, which to me creates very hidious look. But I am no pro shooter, no event or wedding photographer. My primary focus is lifestyle and documentary and there, 3 primes (Samyang 12mm, 21mm & 35mm) work for me perfectly on my X-T1. But I do understand the convinience of zooms.

[@JonGPxl]

It's never easy. I have evolved over time, but always used both. Now that I'm considering swapping to Sony, I have to revisit this as to which lenses I prioritise. Like you Eric, I have the 100mm L Macro. I love it, incredible. But I rarely use it anymore, so it may have to go, my best work with it was more as a portrait lens. Now that I shoot more street photography, and have a pretty efficient lens swap workflow going on, but I'm considering getting back to a zoom, as sometimes I miss shots. But then there's the bulk and weight around you're neck. I much prefer having 2-3 small primes on my body rather than one big one around my neck, I'm not a big tall guy, so it really is a pain in the neck, I started getting into primes after I tired of my heavy workhorse zoom (EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS) .. but I miss our time together :D . Someone please make a high quality, compact and light-weight zoom :D I'll pay! lens & body combo under 1kg please. So for me, primes vs zooms.. not so clear cut.

[@Eric_Rossi]

Have you looked into a better strap then the neck one? Try the sling ones at all? It could help.

[@JonGPxl]

Thanks for the suggestion. Sadly I actually have a neck/shoulder issue. Perhaps the sensible thing is to do a mini version of your experiment, a week of only primes, a week of only zooms. (before I potentially sell them all!) Thanks Eric, it was a very insightful video even for an amateur such as myself hoping to improve and perhaps not be an amateur one day.

[@PunjabiGymBeats]

I have got primes and zoom both 35,58,85 and 24-70 & 70-200 and I do weddings I have tried all set of primes and 70-200 with me last wedding and I loved it my most used lenses were 85 then 70-200 and 58 and lastly 35 for groups. I really didn't miss 24-70 at all but for dance floor for its autofocus. its way faster than primes.

[@Eric_Rossi]

thats awesome you enjoyed it more, I tried, like mentioned but just isnt my taste!

[@yitzchallevi8208]

I use what I need and don't get hung up about these sorts of concerns. If I want to do serious portraiture, I am using primes; for most other things I am happy to use high quality / fast zooms... Life's too short to waste your energy worrying about this stuff! Peace.

[@Eric_Rossi]

well said, well said!

[@yitzchallevi8208]

Love your work Eric! Thanks for being real!

[@tobysolesbury3405]

Hey Eric it's great to mix it up with lenses. Great idea for a challenge though. looking at the images of your website you get great results whatever you use

[@billb8262]

I'm considering switching to Fujifilm from my Nikon D750, mainly due to size and want to draw less attention. It's inconvenient for walking around due to size and weight. What I'm considering, though is a 16-80mm f4 general zoom, maybe a 10-24mm f4 for wide (both zooms for travel convenience) and then shooting mostly primes 16mm 1.4, 23mm f1.4, 56mm 1.2 and Viltrox 85mm 1.8. Want to get that prime image quality like I get out of my 50mm 1.8 and 85mm 1.8 Nikon lenses but on a smaller body.

[@Eric_Rossi]

If you do switch, the 10-24 is one of Fuji's best lenses!

[@billb8262]

@@Eric_Rossi Thank you!

[@adrianpocea2287]

I can do almost, I say almost exclisively a wedding with a 70-200 and a 50 1.8 ( or 1.4). Don't need 1.2 at photo shoots. Who can nail the face or eye focus at 1.2? Especially when you tell the grooms to hug, dip, walk, stack, etc? Maybe with a mirrorless that focuses on the sensor, a very good eye detect or something. Yes, in very low light 1.2 vs 2.8 matters, being 2 and a half stops, that means for my 5div the difference between 25600 iso( almost undeliverable to the client) to uso 8000, which is perfectly fine. S But, who shoots the reception at 1.2?

[@john_murch]

I started with the zoom trilogy but moving more toward primes (in transition), I have the Canon 35, 50, 135 for now but looking at the 24 next. I shoot travel and street, occasionally events. I agree with MrCochise71 that primes make you a better photographer and in low light that's where the fast primes really shine. It's definitely more of a challenge to shoot events without zooms. As the Canon 24-70 2.8 ii L is so great it looks like I will be a prime and a zoom guy for awhile...:)

[@Eric_Rossi]

the 24mm is an amazing lens! But yeah with a prime, it forces you to think a bit more

[@theflyest203]

Depends on workflow and intended use.. I use both.. I like primes for sz weight and image quality and luxury of f1.8 or 1.4 for portraits but for say walk around lens for travel landscapes, Sports or even portraits if you like the versatility and time it saves you on work flow then zooms are amazing.. 24-70, 15-30, 70-200 , 24-120 amazing lenses! Primes and zooms are great just depends on personal preference..

[@Eric_Rossi]

I agree, plus I think more people are hybrid now a days

[@JackLodestar]

hi Eric, I'm really confused which lens to buy, a lot of my photographer friends suggest sony 18-105mm but I fell in love with sigma 30mm. the quality is just superb esp with cinematic videos. it's my first lens to buy tho. what are your thoughts?

[@Eric_Rossi]

it really depends on what you want, a zoom lens or prime lens. I would suggest an 18-105 as itll cover a lot

[@JackLodestar]

@@Eric_Rossi thank you! 🙏

[@ShawnSwander]

The 35 f/1.4 crops to a 70 f/2.8 you only loose resolution you might not need. So I don't see a huge reason for zooms in many cases

[@olivegc]

I really like your work bro

[@Eric_Rossi]

thank you, I really appreciate it!

[@rumporridge1]

For my work, 2.8 zooms rule. Manhattan is my studio so bokeh balls are not really a concern. Also use the 11-25 f4 for buildings and what not. One day soon will get the 85mm 1.4 IS. Heard togs are getting really great results with it. And do intend to get a macro. Always wanted to see a hairy bumble bees butt lol!!!

[@town3]

I've battled this back and forth for the last few years. I do different photography all the time but In the end, I didn't give up my zooms or primes because i love the flexibility, quality, Size, character and all the different assets each Lens contributes to my Photography. I can say what i try to make sure is whatever lens i have stands out almost in a way that it stands alone and have their own special magic to me. Just me :) My lineup isn't perfect but i like it. (Zooms)Sony G12-24 f4, Sony GM 16-35 f2.8, Sony GM 24-70 f2.8, Sony GM 70-200 f2.8 (primes) Sony Zeiss 35 1.4 & 50 1.4, Sony GM 85 1.4, Sony G 90 macro 2.8, Sony GM 100 STF t5.6, (cine/eng video zoom lenses ) Sony G 18-110 f4, Fujinon MK 18-55 2.9, Fujinon MK 50-135 and i'm done. No I mean it, i'm done! Great video Eric keep up the great work. :)

[@Eric_Rossi]

lol man you sure have the kit lol!

[@town3]

Yeah I have G.A.S lol but l love photography and Videography first. The gear is nice but in the end it's just nice gear, tools to get the job done. It's all about bringing out to best in ourselves as photographers. Stay blessed Eric continued. success

[@yitzchallevi8208]

We share the same passion! Shalom to you Michael.

[@town3]

Thank you Yizchal Levi peace and blessings to you and yours as well.

[@AndySomething]

I've just switched to Sony and have my first prime; the 55 1.8. I've only ever used the Sigma 1.8 zoom lenses - which were amazing but super heavy. I'm now struggling to decide what to do. Do I get the 24-105 f4 (I also agree f4 is a great aperture, im not obsessed with bokeh) or maybe get the 35 1.8 and then a 70-200 f4 to give my more versatility on the long end. I definitely think in situations where you can't control your subjects or the environment zooms are better.

[@חניקוטקס]

hey did you end up making a decision? i'm curious to hear!

[@andrewzuliani9839]

I have one 50mm prime lens and it's pretty old! I hope to upgrade to a new one sooner, any suggestions? Also, I've just found out about your channel and your videos are super helpful! Thanks for the vids I hope to gain as much success with my channel as yours did:) Have a nice day!!!

[@Eric_Rossi]

thanks man, I'm glad you found the channel and enjoy the vids. Just make videos, keep getting them out and things can grow. You never know

[@adzamree6870]

4 must have lens for me.. 14mm 3.0, 24-70mm 2.8, 50mm 1.4, 70-200mm 2.8

[@EXHUMEnCONSUME]

I currently only have two lenses and they are both primes. I love primes, but if I had the cash for one I would totally try a f/2.8 zoom. Most zooms in my current broke-ass price range aren't fast enough for me.

[@Eric_Rossi]

which two do you have?

[@EXHUMEnCONSUME]

Canon 50mm 1.8 STM and 85mm 1.8

[@Eric_Rossi]

both may be "cheaper" but actually are pretty good I wouldnt discount those

[@johncadis8473]

Do you know you can zoom prime optically and digitally?

[@FrancescoCoppola]

I Shoot Portraits with my K3ii and primes (24, 35, 50, 70 and 135), no problem at all, many of them are manual (AF only the 35 and the 70) and I wouldn't change them with a zoom at all, neither with a heavy, costly, flat Sigma 18-35 f 1,8.

[@Eric_Rossi]

Yeah a lot of people who like primes do like manual focus as well

[@FrancescoCoppola]

You know, they have a personality of their own.

[@Eric_Rossi]

well said man

[@flyinb45]

I'm a newb, so excuse me if this an obvious question. But, do you see a difference in quality between using a zoom like several prime lenses (ie: using your feet at different focal lengths to get the shot) or using several separate prime lenses in the same fashion?

[@Eric_Rossi]

Not a bad question at all! There is a slight difference, minimal imo, but there is some IQ for prime lenses.

[@flyinb45]

Eric Rossi thank you! I’m looking into an a6400 with an 18-105 f/4 lens for a walking around setup. I was considering the standard Sigma prime f/1.4 offerings (16, 30, 56) but didn’t know how much redundancy I’d find there with the zoom lens. Obviously those would allow for more low light shooting.

[@Eric_Rossi]

depends on your goals and what you are photographing. Do you want a minimal amount of lenses, like an all around? Low light is also broad in most cases lowering the shutter and upping the ISO can do it but if really low light, flash is a better option over f stop. Because the lower the f stop, the more chance of not getting what you are shooting in focus too. So theres pros and cons

[@flyinb45]

@@Eric_Rossi Right now it would be capturing family moments, travel, automotive, some portraits. I have no prior experience so I don't a style. Minimalism isn't all that important to me. It wouldn't bother me if I ended up with a zoom and 3 primes as my "kit".

[@Eric_Rossi]

Sound like an 18-105 f4 is a great lens to start with

[@Malcolm701]

You need a bigger bag and you risk getting dust on the sensor if you keep changing lenses, so ideally you'd have two bodies with the primes you need most. Overall it's swings and roundabouts...If you have a large bag you can afford to carry more bodies enabling you to take advantage of the best lens for the situation- depends how much of a hurry you are in, thinking of my old experiences as a wedding photographer where time is at a premium. I'd probably say go for a good zoom as you'll need to crop less but if you need the large aperture you'll most likely be stuffed, however we need to ask what our photography is for and where it's going to be displayed and we need to face the fact that if you are putting images online almost any camera lens will do.

[@Eric_Rossi]

yeah thats the key, what are you shooting? What is the look you are trying to get? Go from there

[@lrmbvv]

not into zooms, would love to own some, but my funds get sucked up to the primes that come out and the 3 systems I have

[@GiuseppeMilo]

I've used prime lenses for a while but after a few trips I've decided to buy a 16-55 2.8 (fuji) cause I was tired to swap lens too often. I'm pleased with the zoom for the moment. I also use a 10-24 for landscape. My kit before was fuji 14 2.8, fuji 23 1.4, fuji 56 1.2.

[@Eric_Rossi]

Yeah that 16-55 and 10-24 have been a staple for Fuji users, I'd want that 10-24 too if I was full Fuji

[@GiuseppeMilo]

Eric Rossi fuji lenses are very good... Even the zooms in general are very sharp 😁

[@DA-qv7vf]

Depends a lot of what your doing, i just can't quit my zooms. As a working photographer i just cannot buy and explain the cost of switching to primes, it is to late for that. And i am a very lazy

[@Eric_Rossi]

Yeah to me I cant get rid of my zooms at all, but I always need a prime macro, no doubt

[@HGQjazz]

When I KNOW what focal length is optimal, I use a lightweight prime.

[@Eric_Rossi]

just depends on the photographer and what they need in the end

[@tomislavmiletic_]

It all depends of what, when an how you are shooting - there's no Swiss army knife for everything, no matter how convenient that may be. That being said, I shoot with 2 zooms and one prime on my Canon body, and only one superzoom (more overall vacation lens) on my 2 Fuji bodies, with a ton of primes in between, many of which are f2, f1,4 or f1,2 course I shoot in the dark. A lot...

[@Eric_Rossi]

well said, there isnt the perfect anything in our industry. No perfect camera, bag...etc

[@BermyBwoy]

D500 with Sigma 18-35mm f1.8 and a D700 with Nikkor 85mm f1.8. This is my events combo.

[@Eric_Rossi]

That Sigma is a killer lens!

[@mikebaltierra]

I use zooms for concert or action photography I will use primes for portraits I will use wide angle for urban or landscape photos...

[@Eric_Rossi]

exactly, just comes down to whatever tool you feel will get the job done

[@KevinLin145]

Personally, I think I'm more of a prime shooter. However, I used to own the 18-35 1.8... and yes its a zoom but you can almost treat it as a prime. It's a 1.8, and really sharp wide open. Too bad it's only available for crop sensors : (

[@Eric_Rossi]

Yeah that Sigma lens is really tops for the crop market

[@herrykadir6442]

I'm a prime lens shooter.Canon 5D mk iii. Canon 35 1.4L ii,85 1.2L ii and 135 2L:)

[@Eric_Rossi]

that 35 1.4....is a dream lens

[@teamhazardous201]

I use a mix of both zoom and prime lenses. Are you based in NJ? I am also

[@Eric_Rossi]

Yes I am

[@andytee88]

Mix shooter here, I'd never go all zooms or all primes

[@Eric_Rossi]

yeah same here, just not for me at this point in time

[@RandyPollock]

On my Fuji I use primes until I need a zoom...remove the word Fuji and this post could be used by almost everyone that isn't a photo snob. There is more pressing issues like why I can't find the perfect camera bag :-)

[@Eric_Rossi]

sadly we can never find the perfect anything in our industry lol

[@iTip28]

50, 85 & 135 for portrait/wedding/photo journalism 12-24 & 24-70

[@jamesmarko1787]

I use all zooms except for the nifty fifty.

[@Eric_Rossi]

that nifty fifty is some lens though for the price

[@wanneske1969]

On some weddings, f2.8 isn't enough and I'd prefer a f1.4 lens, which doesn't come in a zoom-version

[@suyashkulkarni8071]

Completely agree

[@FFxO]

hi eric how are u

[@Eric_Rossi]

great you

[@savnac]

Eric Rossi lol

[@maxfactor4209]

Canon 24_70 ii is primely sharp..

[@Eric_Rossi]

lol yes it is