Every photographer has that go-to lens that spends the most time on their camera. That perfect balance of focal distance and aperture that gives them those images that fit their photography style. I definitely have a handful of trusty lenses that are my go-tos and always give me that look I’m going for! It’s so intriguing to me how favorite lenses vary so much from photographer to photographer. One persons favorite lens may be another persons least favorite. I guess you could say that’s where the art aspect of photography comes into play as each lens will give a different look and feel to the image. But after much thought and deliberation, I’ve narrowed my lenses down to my top 3!
85 1.8 This lens is definitely my all-time favorite! Two interesting things about this lens- it was my FIRST full frame lens and it is the least inexpensive lens in my lineup! Yet it still produces my best images! The main thing I am using my 85 for is portraits. For engagement sessions, I almost use it exclusively! I find that it has the best focal distance that creates the perfect amount of compression and bokeh, while still wide enough that I can get back and get wider shots too! 50 1.4 This lens is probably what gets used the most on wedding days for me. It is so versatile and great for all the in-between shots! For my style of photography, I prefer longer focal lengths with more compression as opposed to wider focal lengths. So the 50 still gives me a good amount of compression, but is wider than the 85 making it much more flexible! I use this lens mainly for details, wedding party, reception and getting ready. And I also have to mention that Sigma Art lenses, like this one, are amazing! If they come out with an 85 lens I will be all over it!! 70-200 2.8 Now I must say first that I really don’t love this lens. I wouldn’t even say that I like it. But I do love what it allows me to do that my other lenses just don’t. This monster of a lens (in both price tag and weight) allows me to get those up close and personal shots during the ceremony, while still shooting at a pretty low aperture. And you just can’t beat that! These are some of the most important photographs of the day, so that definitely makes using this heavy clunky lens totally worth it! Some of my other faves that didn’t make this list would be the 105 2.8 macro (great for those ring shots!) and the 35 1.4 (great for small getting ready spaces and reception dancing!). To see a full list of what’s in my bag (although this list is a little outdated) check out THIS POST.
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