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

[@ocfilmsdotcom]

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]

Yay! Thank you!

[@davidefaggian4031]

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]

I agree 100%

[@Qew61]

Very funny

[@meritisak2576]

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

[@mirandas8814]

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

[@KatelynJames]

Thats so sweet Miranda! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@chuckmac3994]

Are you also a billionaire

[@jayleephotography1845]

@@chuckmac3994 smart people keep to themselves, so she might be right but who knows

[@allenhendricks8892]

True❤

[@peenivisuals]

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

[@KatelynJames]

Wow, thanks!

[@clicksandcrochets2929]

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]

Yes!! The 85 is my fav!!

[@vividstudio4651]

@@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.

[@saleemrishah]

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.

[@KatelynJames]

Glad it was helpful!

[@danggood]

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!

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@vickymatulich1924]

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

[@KatelynJames]

I share the same affection for that lens!!

[@ronnieabellan9565]

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!

[@DanaBirdieBoudoir]

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]

It would be a great investment!

[@mr.mrs.v3ng3ance13]

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]

Thanks so much! Glad it was helpful!

[@mrlim282]

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

[@KatelynJames]

Truth!

[@drrous9917]

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.

[@adictcreativephotography5267]

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]

Thanks for watching!!

[@MonicaHolly143]

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

[@ibugama6420]

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

[@MonicaHolly143]

@@ibugama6420 thats why 85 exist

[@patrickhin4301]

@@ibugama6420 you mean crop sensor?

[@camillapool]

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

[@Shaari]

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.

[@canadadhiman26]

Damn from my 4 years of experience , I can confirm . Her each and every advice is just of next level and right. Thankyou

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@brophoto1322]

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!

[@KatelynJames]

We love our primes!!

[@bethechange671]

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.

[@KatelynJames]

Yes!! I agree!!

[@robdtoys]

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]

Thats awesome Rob!

[@medusasaurus1447]

I’ve been wanting to get a 135mm

[@PC-ul5cm]

Totally agree! I call the 135 my magic lense!

[@magicalunicorn5853]

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

[@robdtoys]

@@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!

[@TailoredTechnique]

Want to thank you for the breakdown! Was about to buy the R6 then found you so I took the R6 out mycart and put the R6 from your link in my cart to say thank you!!

[@KatelynJames]

Glad it was helpful!!

[@sarahhughes5755]

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!!

[@KatelynJames]

Glad it helped!

[@fromcarstocomputers7261]

The info and pace of this video is top notch

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@christhompsonphotography6783]

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.

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@margaretfabian5257]

I love how you discuss your priorities and how each of the lenses affects your line of work. ❤️

[@KatelynJames]

Glad you found it helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@Adomarf]

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

[@KatelynJames]

Glad I could help!

[@chasesunshine.6144]

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]

Makes total sense! Thanks for sharing Sammie!!

[@paulfresh]

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

[@mjudkins1371]

I really Love 70-200 2.8

[@TheDolphins21]

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]

Love it!

[@aldringeorge2786]

50 mm f1.8 STM is a great lens.

[@Bobi-ow6ou]

You can get that lens cheap on eBay

[@Dustyphoto915]

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

[@felicityannchen]

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

[@Alex-is3ru]

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

[@KatelynJames]

Happy to help!

[@deebea6364]

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]

Thanks for watching!!

[@BrianHallmond]

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

[@popyv8]

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

[@KatelynJames]

haha!! never say never!

[@thaipepperlasvegas6693]

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!!!

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks!

[@stevenmeansphotography3861]

70-200 is great and bright

[@REMRODFILMS]

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

[@KatelynJames]

haha!! thanks!

[@calebginsberg5224]

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]

Great to hear! Me too!!

[@kennypringle4580]

Me too👍

[@rafalgelzok]

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]

@@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]

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

[@ro3843]

I like how this list is derived from someone's hands on experience. As someone who started pro photography about a year ago, I think this is great information for a beginner.

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@Larimuss]

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.

[@KatelynJames]

Awesome!

[@gaarakabuto1]

Great video and great way stripping down to someone on how they should grow their most important piece of equipment in photography, lenses. I want to offer my insight as a concert photographer that even though it has a lot of differences with wedding and that sort of events, at the end of the day I still take portraits and group photos (sometimes if the company that booked you is strongly associated with the setting up you may have to do some architectural stuff too, that's beside the point though). I started and still shoot on a Fuji X system for the primes. I realised quite soon when I started that I work better when visualising images within a specific frame line, thus primes were the option and apparture ring for me was extremely important on the workflow I had. One thing I can say for sure is that before you start investing your money on expensive primes you should always understand what's the intended use may be for that focal length.I see a lot of people spending double the money they needed to get the fastest prime of a focal length for a prime that they will use for quick action.Wider usually means heavier, bigger, more expensive and less reliable in auto-focus.It is just fine going for an 50mm f2 since the bokeh usually will be used on shots you take with the 85mm and the 50mm will be used in the hall. Another thing that I personally can't understand (but I can see why it is happening) is the fact the prime lenses are used as secondary lenses to the zoom.Most of the people I work together usually they have mounted their zoom lens and whenever they want a "85mm shot" they change the lenses.Personally I have sold the zoom lenses "I needed" and I use only the primes I have, that consists of a lot of running but that also consists of a lot of framing that you wouldn;t normally do on a 50mm or wtv you are using. Being forced down to specific focal lengths and loosing the versatility of zooming in and out makes you creative with your shots and customers do differentiate me for that reason.

[@schaerfentiefe1967]

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]

true!

[@JT-fm4ye]

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

[@schaerfentiefe1967]

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

[@ir0nm0nkey123]

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

[@angelloenraw]

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

[@gburgMD]

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

[@VisualMasterpiece]

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]

Thanks for sharing and watching!

[@MiCoke03]

I was drooling from start to finish.. LOL Very nice lens collection, great content, love this video!

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@kendalnicolephotofilm]

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]

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

[@onlysublime]

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]

Agreed

[@kevinjubal5182]

Oh God.. this is the first time I see any video of yours and I love it . Thank you for being there 😍

[@KatelynJames]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@SarahGodfrey23]

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]

My husband Michael also loves the 70-200!

[@eraserrx]

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]

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

[@ocfilmsdotcom]

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]

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!

[@lit_wick]

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.

[@Ladymusicc]

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.

[@KatelynJames]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ztornow]

Hey I really appreciate the time spent to make a beginner video like this. Well done. Polite. Really helped me out 👍

[@KatelynJames]

Glad to hear it!

[@nogerboher5266]

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]

Thanks for sharing!

[@braydensaunders19]

What about the F1.8

[@firefightergtx3281]

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]

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.

[@sharadwala2110]

This video is the best one seen!!! Especially for start ups and not to get carried away :-) Very accurate and PRACTICAL approach!!!! "Save Up and Rewards" is a million dollar statement - Thank You Katelynnnnnn!!!!!!!!!!!

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!!

[@jessicakovach4203]

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]

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

[@gabrielbrito]

Fist time here in your channel, congrats from Brazil!! You are amazing.

[@KatelynJames]

Welcome!!

[@KyraRane]

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.

[@KatelynJames]

Glad it was helpful!!

[@lenaapple1974]

I absolutely wish that every single photographer jumping into weddings without any knowledge of the potential issues from that day... whether it be lens choice, backup camera, OCF or even just flash knowledge... would watch this. Your advice is so solid, and exactly how I figure out my next choice, and if there even is a next choice of lens. In groups, people get so mad at me for asking questions to those who say "what lens should I get nest". I kind of lead the way you are here, and everyone always comes at me for it! High five, I am kneeling here. I think I will send this YT vid to them from now on! (PS no one ever believes me when I say that church lady will one day stop them day of, even if the bride said she was told nothing of the sort, and they won't be getting what they need with just a 50mm!!!!)

[@lenaapple1974]

135 all day! woot woot! That was my special purchase a few years back. I did get the 70-200 2.8 first... b/c weddings. But that 135, 9/10 times, that is what I will use! I shoot that baby at 2.0 - always!! For holiday sessions, I usually pick a lens and go with it. The last two years, I kind of have been favoring my 85 1.2. So this year I broke that and went with the 135 for most of the locations. The bokeh gahhh! OK, sorry. Had to gush about that a little bit. But really, I have clients who shoot sometimes more than one time in a specific location. I change the lens type to make the look a little different. :)

[@KatelynJames]

You are the best Lena! Thanks for watching!

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

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@magiccarpetrider4594]

Primes rock. I have Canon EF/RF systems and Leica M10M/R. I basically have the same lenses for each system, 15 mm 21 mm 24 mm a couple of 50s for each, and a 90 or 100 mm.

[@krazyk57]

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

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks!

[@kirayamato94]

this is the best video that explains the needs and wants honestly if your buying mirrorless f1.8 options are great as well

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks!

[@yashy101]

85mm for life !

[@KatelynJames]

Amen!

[@NewYork0riginal]

What's amazing is that the order in the lenses you named are what I went with before I saw this video. I bought a 50mm and then a 35mm, which then brings me to my 3rd lense which is a 85mm which I am in love with. 💯💯🤞🏽

[@KatelynJames]

That is awesome!

[@iamfyrus]

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)

[@KatelynJames]

Thats a good set up!

[@rupunzel6299]

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.

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for sharing!

[@triskelion86]

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]

I can respect that! Thanks for watching!

[@AR-vf7vg]

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

[@MaximC]

I find your thoughts/advices quite sensible and helpful. Thank you.

[@KatelynJames]

Glad it was helpful!

[@tt__shin]

Started watching for buying tips, stayed for life tips

[@KatelynJames]

Awesome!!

[@PIXELvoiz]

sorry i used to follow you for while and i remember about this video. now i am thinking bit seriously about my passion for photography and a event photography business. and i wanted to come back and refresh my memory about this lens lesson. subscribing again 😃

[@KatelynJames]

Welcome back!

[@robbie154]

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

[@KatelynJames]

Totally true! Thanks for watching!

[@Tritiumfusion]

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

[@azakerahman1471]

Totally agree

[@court1619]

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

[@KatelynJames]

@@court1619 yes!

[@sherwincapuno9123]

I just subscribe to you Ms. Katelyn because Im a newbie and I dont know which lens should I buy first for primes. Now, I know what I would like to have. The first that I have was a kitlens 18-55mm for fuji. I love landscape, but I think, its time to explore portraits now. Thank you. I will look forward for more of your tutorials and suggestions. Although Im not a canon user. But your teaching everyone in general terms. God bless. Hope you grow more your audience. 😇🥳

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@JZuckerwatte123]

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]

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

[@SerranoFilmCo]

Best educator ever!! And I’m a videographer 😍 Love your videos, Katelyn!

[@KatelynJames]

Yay! Thank you!

[@ohsnaptutorials5409]

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

[@KatelynJames]

You are so welcome

[@shang-hsienyang1284]

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.

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@Theroundtable125]

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]

The 70-200 may do better in low light

[@maxanderssonphotography]

My first lens was the Sony 55mm f/1.8. It’s a masterpiece with a great price!

[@bongmichdones9168]

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

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks!

[@mina.kuskaya]

Thank you for this great Video! I am happy to hear that my decision to buy a 50mm as my first lense ist supported here! :D

[@samanthachester4009]

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]

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]

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!)

[@allenhendricks8892]

This is the best content for beginners like me stepping out of my comfort zone

[@juurstudio]

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]

Thanks for sharing!

[@eliskatesarova3104]

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 :)

[@iroegbulemgodswill8091]

This well explained especially the priority orderliness

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@elizaporter9673]

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]

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

[@mlatrellelove]

Super helpful! I do brand photography and I was able to gain a lot of knowledge from your video! Thank you Katelyn :)

[@KatelynJames]

You're so welcome!

[@charlesmascari8197]

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.

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@b.r.srihari4099]

Informative, practical and most sensible review....I feel 50mm(prime), 18-55 and 55-200 will cover everything

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@mirasga]

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. 😂

[@KatelynJames]

So good!

[@meatshieldmaiden707]

This was so helpful in figuring out what prime lens I should get to start out! Thank you :)

[@KatelynJames]

Glad it was helpful!

[@RockyMaiviaMiami]

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

[@KatelynJames]

great points!

[@TaraCreel]

This is the most helpful lens video I have ever watched on YT and I’ve watched HUNDREDS! You are a natural teacher.

[@KatelynJames]

Wow, thank you so much!!

[@eraserrx]

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]

Agree to disagree haha Thanks for watching!

[@KatelynJames]

To each their own! I love my primes!

[@tobisonbrown]

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

[@jaytcapinpin]

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]

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

[@miltonwilliams995]

Katelyn your content is amazing. I am learning a great deal from your channel. Now that you are a KZbinrrrrrr! Lol

[@KatelynJames]

Ha ha thanks so much for watching Milton!

[@essiraakel]

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]

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. kzbin.info?event=video_description&redir_token=791eFGEopn86tkz1i4dAc4poCuF8MTU4ODc3NzY2NkAxNTg4NjkxMjY2&q=https%3A%2F%2Fgeni.us%2Fkj-all-access-trial&v=Jc7w6fxoxgs

[@neilpiper9889]

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.

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@bassandtrebleclef]

24mm isn't a fish eye lens.

[@tobisonbrown]

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

[@Kumofan]

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

[@thanhbok26b]

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

[@kilowhiskeywon3302]

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]

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

[@cary147]

Love your videos: very practical, digestible amount of tech info and frank. Great help to those of us who don’t shoot professionally, but want those pro results.

[@KatelynJames]

Awesome! Thanks for watching!

[@jessepace8868]

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]

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

[@abcweb8334]

Katelyn, Just a note to thank you for your Great Videos. I am learning so much from you. Bless you...

[@KatelynJames]

You are so welcome!

[@FreedomCompatriots]

Church rules be damned! The couple are paying me to get the shot and the wedding is all about the couple. Perhaps in regular church services but this is a wedding and the photographer needs to freedom to move around to get the shot. Period. I had a wedding where I was trying to be discreet and just move around in the back. The groom actually chewed me out because of that! Lesson learned, so long as the conversation is had with the couple prior to the ceremony, be aggressive and unapologetic about getting the shots the couple needs. Period.

[@KatelynJames]

Thanks for watching!

[@chuyencuaco]

4 years, but I still find this video very very helpfull

[@mogambianunda9186]

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

[@KatelynJames]

Haha

[@ronywilson787]

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

[@KatelynJames]

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