What’s the best digital camera to buy in 2023? That’s a tricky question.
After all, cameras, like people, come in all shapes and sizes. No one
camera will be the best for everyone. And each photographer, whether
beginner, intermediate, or pro, will be looking for the best camera to suit their needs.
When a lot of people ask for the best digital camera, they aren’t looking for something that just
produces great stills. They want a camera that can also produce
something special when it comes to video too. This is where the Canon EOS R5 stands proudly above the crowd.
For picture quality, the EOS R5 is one of the best in the business. With an outstanding 45 MP resolution, the full frame
sensor produces images that will knock your socks off. You can also
choose between the mechanical and electronic shutters when using burst
mode. This gives you a great variety of options for continuous shooting.
The video capabilities set the Canon EOS R5
apart from the competition. You can shoot uncropped 8K video internally
at up to 29.97 fps in 4:2:2 or UHD at 30p. Either way, the results will
make your jaw drop.
The needs and wants of the modern photographer are constantly being
redefined as they stretch out into multimedia production. In this
professional landscape, the Canon EOS R5 is a mirrorless camera at the very top of the game. It’s the very best camera for professional multimedia creators in 2023.
If you’ve only just fallen in love with photography, this could be
the perfect camera for you. Whether this is your first DSLR or if you’re
making the jump from point-and-shoot cameras, you can’t go wrong with
the Nikon D3500.
The D3500 has reliable auto-functions, so anyone can pick up the
camera and start shooting. And with a solid APS-C 24 MP sensor, it means
you can produce high-quality images right from the start.
It does lack some features, such as a good burst function for
continuous shooting. And it could benefit from having a movable screen
for multi-angle shots. But simplicity is part of the Nikon D3500‘s
appeal. You can play around with the functions without getting lost in a
maze of buttons and menus. This allows you to focus on honing your
craft.
One beneficial feature is how you can connect the camera to your smartphone
using the Nikon Smartbridge app, which connects using Bluetooth. This
allows you to move photos from one to the other, freeing up space on the
memory card as you go.
The Nikon D3500
is functional, easy to use, and reasonably priced. And the excellent
results will only make your enthusiasm for photography grow. It
certainly is one of today’s best deals and could be the best camera for beginners in 2023.
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is a brilliant DSLR camera for beginners. It’s a real step up from its predecessor, the 7D Mark I. Its improved specs and functions make it a more usable and versatile camera.
With the sensor resolution increased to 20 MP and an expanded ISO range, the 7D Mark II can still produce excellent results in low-light conditions.
One outstanding feature is the 65-point wide-area autofocus system.
This lets you track your subject as it moves across the screen, keeping
it in focus even when moving at high speeds. Coupled with the 10 fps burst mode, this makes the 7D Mark II ideal for sports photography.
This camera is highly responsive and has a generous buffer that
allows for continuous shooting without sacrificing quality or
performance.
The usability makes the Canon 7D Mark II
one of the best cameras for beginners. But the performance and
functionality make it a perfectly viable option for more experienced
enthusiasts.
If you are looking to go beyond the limitations of smartphone cameras, then Sony’s a6000 is one of the best compact digital cameras you can find in 2023.
It has a compact and lightweight build that makes it easy to carry when you’re on the move. It is a perfect travel camera and allows for a wide variety of styles. It’s perfect for street, nature, or portrait photography.
The image quality is also impressive. The a6000 has a photo resolution
of 24.3 megapixels, phase detection auto-focus, and an 11 fps burst
function. And to top that, you can also shoot video in 1080p.
The Sony a6000 is among the best cameras for beginners in the compact range. It’s perfect for those moving away from smartphone content creation as it is compact and easy to use. The quality and functionality also mean it is a good option for a more seasoned enthusiast.
All the talk these days seems to be about mirrorless camera technology. But with the Canon EOS 90D, Canon has made a statement that DSLRs aren’t going anywhere just yet.
The first thing you notice when using the EOS 90D is how ergonomic
the body is. The comfort of the grip allows you to shoot for hours
without fatigue in your hands or arms.
Canon has really pushed the APS-C sensor to the next level. The image
resolution for the EOS 90D is a whopping 32.5 MP. The 45-point
cross-type autofocus system has excellent subject recognition and
low-light sensitivity. This means you can create superb photos in all
types of challenging conditions.
The EOS 90D has 4K video resolution, with a video speed of 120 fps in
Full HD mode. The microphone and headphone connections also allow you
to record audio with your high-quality video.
You can also connect the camera to your smart device
using their Camera Connect app. This allows you to easily move and
share images. This connectivity is useful when you’re out in the field.
The Canon EOS 90D
is versatile, reliable, and a pleasure to use. If you’re really
starting to take photography seriously, then this may be the best camera
for you. It is one of today’s best deals.
The Fujifilm X-S10 is the ideal camera for most enthusiast photographers. It has a perfect blend of usability and performance.
It has an image resolution of 26.1 MP, a 2.36-million dot EVF, and a
high-quality vari-angle touchscreen. Its ergonomic yet straightforward
build makes the Fujifilm X-S10 a joy to use.
The in-body image stabilization system (IBIS) lets you capture the shot you want without losing image quality, giving the Fujifilm X-S10 a broad appeal.
The Fujifilm X-S10
is affordable, easy to use, and produces excellent-quality stills and
videos. It is the camera for an intermediate that wants to get out there
and shoot.
This sensor type also has its advantages. The smaller sensor gives you a 2x effective focal length, getting you closer to your subject without the need to change to a bigger lens.
With a stronger processing engine and a more sensitive autofocusing system, this is a real step up from its predecessor, the Mark II.
The 5-axis image stabilization system
allows for excellent low-light image capture. And the 2,360,000-dot
electronic viewfinder and tilting screen makes for great usability.
If you need something smaller that still packs a punch, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III could be the best camera option for you this year.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a solid camera for a serious photography enthusiast. While it does fall short in some areas, it offers some useful features.
The CMOS full frame sensor
has a highly respectable 26.2 MP resolution. A sensor of this quality
gives the user great scope to capture some impressive images in any
environment.
The burst speed is sluggish at only 6.5 fps. But the advanced
45-point autofocus system allows for sharp and precise image capture
even when the subject is on the move or in low light.
The 102,400 expandable ISO range also gives the photographer greater flexibility in more challenging conditions.
Perhaps it’s not the most versatile camera, but the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is still a rugged camera. It’s for those photographers determined to get superb images in any conditions.
When it comes to the age-old Nikon vs Canon debate, there is not much to separate the two. But in the case of full frame mirrorless cameras, the Nikon Z6 II suggests that Nikon has the advantage.
The full frame sensor, with a 24.5 MP image resolution, produces
stunning images. And the in-body image stabilization system proves
highly beneficial if you’re shooting in low-light conditions.
It also has a rapid 14 fps burst mode for continuous shooting, which
is more than most DSLRs. And it’s entirely weather sealed. These
attributes make the Nikon Z6 II the perfect action camera for the outdoors.
Another benefit of the Z6 II is that you can use the other Nikon lenses you own if you have the correct adaptor.
Is the Nikon Z6 II the best full frame mirrorless camera in its field? It might well be.
Sometimes you might want to capture fantastic images without having
to carry a heavy camera with large lenses. In that case, the Panasonic LUMIX TS200 is an excellent option for a photography enthusiast.
It has a 1-inch sensor, which is much larger than your average
compact. But the most impressive weapon in its arsenal is the 15x
optical zoom lens. It’s perfect for capturing any distant subject that would normally be out of reach.
And with all that firepower, it still fits into a small bag or even into your pocket. This makes it a perfect travel camera for those weekends away.
The Panasonic LUMIX TS200
easy to use, fits in your pocket, and produces fantastic images. It’s
everything a point-and-shoot camera should be. The price might turn off
beginners, but this is a perfect compact camera for an enthusiast.
The latest in their rugged TG line, the Olympus TG-6 is their most durable action camera yet. This camera is designed for life in the wild.
It has a rugged and compact design. And it’s easy to transport, whether in a backpack or in your pocket.
The TG-6 is waterproof to 45 ft (15 m), shockproof from 6.9 ft (2.1
m), crushproof to 220 lbs (100 kg), freezeproof to 14 F (-10 C), and
dustproof.
The TG-6 is limited to only a 12 MP image sensor. But it has
additional features that will appeal to the intrepid explorer, such as
GPS, altimeter, compass, thermometer, and accelerometer. It also boasts a
20 fps burst mode and shoots 4K video.
A great action camera, the Olympus TG-6 is built for adventure. If
you’re an enthusiast of the great outdoors and you want to capture every
moment, this is the best camera you can buy in 2023.
If you’re going pro, then the Nikon D850 is worth your consideration. It’s perfect for hardworking professional photographers.
The full frame sensor has no optical low-pass filter and produces an
image resolution of 45.7 MP. You’ll have a hard time finding anything
better than that in the world of DSLRs.
It can shoot at 9 fps while still keeping its full resolution and
autofocus capabilities. It’s perfect for sport, documentary, or wildlife photography.
A standout feature is the focus shooting mode. This mode allows you to change the focal area after taking the picture. It also makes image stacking possible in post-production.
The intervalometer also provides a lot of creative scope for time-lapse photography. You can program specific intervals and shooting rates for different effects.
Other useful features include Bluetooth, GPS, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a competitive 4K video capture.
The Nikon D850
is not cheap. But if you’re serious about going pro, this camera won’t
let you down. When it comes to versatility and usability, it’s the best
camera for professional photographers in 2023.
The Sony A7R III is at the top of the mirrorless sensor league. It’s durable, usable, excellent quality, and competitively priced.
Unlike most other mirrorless cameras, the A7R III has a full frame sensor with an image resolution of 42.4 MP.
The real point of difference with the Sony A7R
III is the sound. Its mirrorless design means you can shoot in complete
silence, even when using the 10 fps burst function. It’s ideal for
snapping those intimate wildlife shots out in the bush.
You’ll be impressed by the autofocus on this machine. The autofocus
will function beautifully using the burst mode or when the light is low.
The Sony A7R III is not limited to wildlife photography, though. Its functionality, reliability, and compact size mean the possibilities are nearly limitless.
You can’t go wrong with this one. In terms of bang for your buck,
it’s the best full frame mirrorless camera on the market right now.
As a medium format camera, the Fujifilm GFX 50R won’t be for everyone. This type of camera does not have the versatility or functionality of a DSLR or mirrorless camera.
But the Fujifilm GFX 50R does capture stunning images with
unparalleled clarity and crispness. It has an impressive sensor size
with an image resolution of 51.4 MP. With that kind of firepower, you’ll
definitely be impressed when you see the results.
The image is shot through 425 focus points. There are 117 contrast
detection points, and the rest are phase detection points. This hybrid
system gives you a dynamic range that is yet to be surpassed.
There’s our list of the best digital cameras you can buy in 2023. If
you’re looking for an easily pocketable camera that will still give you
great results, the Panasonic LUMIX ZS200 is a super choice. For an entry-level camera with interchangeable lenses, the superb value of the Olympus OM-D E M10 Mark IV could be for you. Or if you’re taking fine art prints to display at gallery size, take a look at the Fujifilm GFX 50R.
But for everyday superb results in all situations, the Canon EOS R5 is our top pick of the bunch.
If you’re one of those people who always leaves their camera at home,
it’s time to start thinking about how to take good photos. Even if you
don’t have an expensive camera, there are a few things you can do to
take great photos with whatever camera you have. Here are ten foolproof
steps for beginners that will help you take better photos right away!
10. Take Good Photos by Learning Manual Mode
Like most people, I struggled to see the point in this when I bought my first digital camera. Why couldn’t I just leave it on priority mode?
Manual mode is much like using an old film SLR from the 1960s, when they didn’t have buttons like aperture priority and other modes that do it all for you.
Being the only option, photographers were forced to learn to use
their cameras in manual. In doing so, they fully learned how their
cameras worked.
Once you know how to properly use your camera, it becomes much easier to spot where you’re going wrong and to fix it.
Priority modes are good for some
situations. But once you know how to properly shoot on manual, you’ll
find there’s no need for them and you’ll get better photos on your own. A silhouette of a dog on the beach – how to take good pictures
9. Learn Basic Composition Techniques… and Then Forget Them
This one might seem a little funny but let me explain…
Once you’ve learnt basic composition techniques, such as the rule of thirds and the use of leading lines,
you start to look at everything differently. You’ll start seeing and
thinking about how you might frame a photo, even when you haven’t got a
camera on you.
This knowledge sticks with you and subtly helps your photos improve from good pictures to great pictures.
Well then, why forget them?
Simple. As a photographer, this becomes too obvious to be interesting and you’ll become bored of your photos.
One of the main challenges of photography is to keep your photos
fresh and interesting. You can do this by pushing the boundaries of the
‘rules’ of photography.
8. No On Camera Flash!
I can’t stress this enough so please pay attention. On camera flash (pop-up especially) is incredibly unflattering to your subject and really flattens your image. It could be from your DSLR camera or iPhone.
When the light comes from the same angle as the lens, you’re left without any of the scene’s natural shadows. Photos with on-camera flash may as well have been taken on your phone.
When I first started out, I hated the pop-up flash so much so that I
didn’t consider myself a ‘flash’ person. This lasted until a friend
talked me into buying an external flash unit.
I finally saw what I was missing – buy one now! Natural light as your only light source can only get you so far in the search for better pictures.
7. Find a Fresh Perspective
As a tall person, I always find myself adjusting my height when taking photos of people so that I’m not looking down on them.
I try to take this a little further where possible and find new ways
of looking at photos. If you follow professional photographers on social
media, you might find that they always present new ways in capturing
professional shots.
Instead of mounting the camera on a tripod, why not use the floor or through a crowd? Keeping a fresh perspective maintains fresh photos!
Instead of zooming in, get involved in the photo. Look at things from a different angle – this allows for a different perspective.
Search for the finer details that would usually be overlooked in a
scene and make these the subject if you really want the best photos.
Think before you shoot or you’ll forget to think at all.
5. Clean Up Your Background
The background
is as much a part of your photo as the subject so make sure it’s not
cluttered and messy. Moving your camera just a few degrees to the side
may make all the difference when it comes to cleaning up your shot.
Think about what’s in your viewfinder or on your screen. Ask yourself
if each individual element adds something to make it a great photo. If
the answer is “no”, it’s taking away from the photos.
Branches, sky and other people are just a few things to look out for. The branch in the shot below really bugs me. You can use photo editing software, such as Photoshop or a camera app.
4. Frame Your Subject
Look for a way to put a frame within a frame, like a doorway or window. In the photo below I used a bluebell flower.
Framing can add context to your photos, telling the viewer a little more about what’s going on and where the photo was taken.
Not only does this add a sense of depth but also another element of interest that the photo didn’t have before. Try a close-up shot for a tighter frame.
3. Get Your White Balance Right!
This is so vitally important if you want good photos that I’ve written an entire post on it here. I strongly suggest you read it.
The WB is all about the color cast of your photos.
Shooting indoors without a flash often results in the people in your photos appearing to have nasty orange-colored skin.
Mastering WB really sets you apart from other people, most of whom
aren’t even aware of the problem. It will dramatically improve your end
results.
2. Use the Histogram
LCD displays on digital cameras are getting better these days but are still subject to the environment you’re in.
If you’re out and about on a really sunny day, you’ll find that
shading the display with your hand doesn’t do the job when it comes to
looking at photos.
The histogram is a mathematical
representation of how well exposed an image is. It’s a great basis for
improving your photography (don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it
sounds).
It’s no use waiting until you get home to find out that your photos are no good! Read more about it here.
1. Practice Practice Practice!
Rome wasn’t built in a day; if you want to get good at anything in
life, you have to work hard at it – these things don’t come for free.
The fortunate thing about photography
is that it’s a lot of fun to play around with. Even though you’ll still
think you suck from time to time, with just a little practice, you will
always begin to see results in your photos.
Many photography teachers will encourage you to learn the rules of composition and then break them.
We prefer a different approach.
We
encourage you to learn the rules so well that you can apply them
intuitively. The more you understand and practice the rules of
composition, the more they become tools for you.
Like any
crafts person, the more you use your tools, the more skilled you’ll
become with them. In time, you’ll use them subconsciously.
You’ll learn which tool to use when you bring your camera to your eye.
Still,
we all have a few favorite tools in our toolbox, and today Kevin
Landwer-Johan will share his three favorite composition tools with you
and why.
It's simple. Open an account and deposit at least $40 or direct
deposit and receive an additional $40 from Netspend. In addition to
the $40 you'll also get your own referral code where YOU can get paid
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Choosing the right equipment for macro flower photography
is something really personal. At the end of the day, it’s about what
works best for you. But that doesn’t mean we can’t help you make a wise
choice.
Camera body, macro lenses, diffuser, reflector, tripod and shutter release are essential pieces of gear for taking macro photos of flowers. But you should also take into account portability.
Long nature walks carrying heavy equipment are not something I like to do, so I try to reduce my gear to the minimum.
Most of the time I carry just my camera with a 100mm macro lens, a small and lightweight tripod, an IR shutter release and a couple of sheets of white and wax paper. I use these as natural light reflectors and diffusers.
Whenever possible, I try to bring more gear with me but this essential kit has never failed me.
Planning
Macro flower photography depends a lot on location, weather conditions and time of day. Being one step ahead and planning are key factors in shooting flowers.
I try to scout the place and check the weather conditions in advance.
Calculating the best time of the day to photograph is also important.
This will affect the harshness and color temperature of sunlight.
Early morning and late afternoon have a softer light than midday. And the end of the day has a warmer light than the morning.
Spring is for me the best time for flower photography. The conditions
are optimal, the sun is shining and the flowers are blooming.
But it doesn’t mean the other seasons can’t offer great images. This
next picture was photographed in wintertime with early morning
raindrops.
Macro Flower Photography Composition
With such a tight framing, composition assumes a dominant role in the image. Following the rule of thirds and using negative space are great ways to create interest in your image.
Finding the right angle is not easy. I always take a look through a
handheld camera and only set up a tripod when I find the right spot.
It’s also important to find the right angle to create volume. Photographing flowers can look really flat. Try to capture macro shots in different angles.
Depth of field
Controlling the distance between
the nearest and the farthest objects in focus on the scene provides a
great way to create interest in your image. It allows for background
separation and a cleaner composition without distracting elements.
Both of these images were photographed with the same camera body and lens combination. The only difference is the f stop used.
The left image was photographed with f/32 while the right image was photographed with f/5.6. This produced a shallower depth of field and better background separation. The resulting image is by far more interesting.
Shutter speed
It might seem that flowers don’t move much. But even the slightest breeze can create a motion blur effect when photographing close-up or at such a close distance.
Even with the camera mounted on a tripod, it is really important to determine the right shutter speed to freeze the action.
Natural light control
Even though natural light is created by the sun, it can look very
different depending on many factors. Weather conditions, time of the day
and season can affect it.
Reflecting or diffusing are simple ways to control this light. You can
do this with simple and easily available objects if you don’t have a
reflector kit.
A white sheet of paper or foam board can reflect light, creating a fill
effect. At the same time, translucent wax paper can diffuse the light to
create a softening effect.
The next images show the difference between direct harsh sunlight (left) and that same light softened with a diffuser (right).
Manual vs Auto-Focus
Creating the right focus point on photos of flowers is not an easy task. Auto-focus often gets confused by focus points overload. And in macro photography distances a couple of millimetres might be enough to have the wrong focus point.
Manual focus is the way to go if are using a tripod and have control of the camera’s positioning.
Auto-focus is essential for handheld shots but you should use the
One-Shot AF option. This is a more reliable focusing method because it
locks focus, while AI Servo does not.
LED lighting
Even though I prefer to use natural
light, sometimes sunlight is just not enough light. This is when you
need to resort to artificial light. LED lighting has come a long way. Nowadays, it is the main source for continuous artificial photography lighting.
I use a light system that consists of two articulated arms with small LED bulbs.
These LEDs create precise light spots on the image. They add texture and
volume to the images of flowers making it a lot more interesting.
Flash lighting
When LEDs are not enough, flash lighting comes to the rescue. It is a lot more powerful and offers different possibilities.
This twin light system overpowers natural light most of the time. It results in images with a more artificial look.
But it also freezes movement. This allows us to create images that would be otherwise impossible due to insufficient light.
Abstract Macro Photos
The macro world is always a fascinating one. From insects to food, it offers endless photographic opportunities.
We can relate to things that we are able to see with the naked eyes.
When we increase the magnification things rapidly become abstract to us.
And that makes them interesting.
The abstract factor can be the theme for some amazing images. What starts as plain flower photography quickly becomes a work of art.
All you have to do is increase the magnification scale.
So there you have it. These simple tips for macro flower photography
will for sure set you on the right track to some amazing flower images.
Go out there and give it a try!
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Sunday, April 9, 2023
#ACX, Photography Tips, Basic Photography
The Best Lens for Wedding Photography in 2023 (Updated)
Having the best lens for wedding photography will help you capture those special moments, no matter where they occur.
Lenses come in all shapes and sizes. They also vary in cost. In this
article, we have collected some of the most recommended lenses for
wedding photography.
If you can only choose one lens, then a fast 70-200mm zoom would be ideal. For Canon users, that would be this fantastic Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L lens.
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM
Capture stunning wedding moments with
a professional-grade telephoto lens, featuring superior image
stabilization and fast autofocus.
The best lens differs from photographer to photographer. It’s based on shooting style
and the brand of the camera body. Some wedding photographers favor
bright primes with two bodies for fast access. Others prefer the ease
and range of a zoom lens.
Owning more than one wedding lens allows you to capture the moment in
a cramped, dim reception venue, as well as in a wide-open, brightly lit
park. But there are a few features and focal lengths that are standard
for the pro wedding photographer.
The following list includes everything. From lenses for multiple
camera bodies (such as Nikon, Canon, Sony, and Fujifilm) to third-party
lenses that are available for multiple mounts.
Before we look at the details of our chosen lenses, here’s a table of all the lenses for wedding photography in this review.
Best 24-70mm f/2.8 Wedding Photography Lenses
This wide to medium zoom lens covers a solid range of focal lengths and still packs in a bright aperture.
The lens is wide enough to capture the entire ceremony in one shot.
You can adjust the telephoto end for closer shots and even portraits, so
it also comes in handy for those family formals.
As a popular wedding photography lens, some manufacturers have
multiple versions of it. The difference is often optical image
stabilization (IS).
That stabilization helps shoot those dimly lit spaces, especially at slower shutter speeds. This allows you to drop the ISO down. But stabilization isn’t as essential in a wide-angle lens as it is for telephoto and macro.
Due to its popularity, third-party manufacturers got in on the action
too. This could help you save some cash when choosing gear for wedding
photography.
This Nikon AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8
is fast, sharp, and performs well in low light. You’ll appreciate the
fast constant f/2.8 maximum aperture in low-light interior wedding
shots. Especially in combination with Vibration Reduction (Nikon’s
version of IS).
Both ends of the zoom range are useful at a wedding. The 70mm length
is ideal for couples portraits, and you can count on beautiful bokeh. At
24mm, the wide end will help you fit everyone in without distortion.
The Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II
is a versatile telephoto that is sharp with solid bokeh. Some people
think this lens is the ultimate wedding photographer’s glass. Like the
Nikon before, it has two of the most useful focal lengths. And the f/2.8
maximum aperture produces bright images in demanding settings.
Autofocus with this lens and a matching Canon EOS full frame camera
will rarely disappoint. It has pro-level construction and weather
sealing. So you’ll find that the bride and groom will run for cover
before you do.
Owners of this Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8
praise the bokeh and sharpness and even the video performance. A
combination of Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) and Super ED glass helps to
make the images sharp and glare-free. The extreme aspherical lens element reduces aberration.
The result of all this tech is a super-sharp lens that is ideal for
the wedding photographer. Extensive weather sealing and a useful zoom
lock will be appreciated by the busy pro.
This Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8
offers a similar range and bright aperture for a significantly lower
price. Sigma Art lenses have a loyal following. A wedding photographer
friend of mine uses them exclusively on her Canon. And her photos are
luminous and beautiful.
Which makes the price of this lens all the more remarkable. It has
all the qualities you would want in a pro lens. Quick and reliable
autofocus, weather sealing, and aspherical lens elements make this a
top-notch lens. Sigma makes this Art lens to fit Canon EF, and Nikon F mount cameras.
This Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8
is equivalent to a 24-84mm on a full frame camera. So it offers a more
typical portrait length and still has the useful 24mm wide angle. It
maintains the essential wide aperture for many low-light scenarios. And
it offers the sharpness that a wedding photographer needs.
It combines aspherical elements with ED elements to control
aberration and flare. It is also weather sealed for constant
professional use, whatever the climate. If you are a Fujifilm camera
user, this should definitely be on your list of wedding photography
lenses!
Best 70-200mm Lenses for Wedding Photography
The 70-200mm offers a versatile zoom range and enough focal length to help the subject pop from the background.
The 70-200mm is great for capturing details and close-ups. The long zoom range also makes the lens an option for the portrait section of the day. Its length will help create softer backgrounds. All this while having the aperture a bit wider to keep both the bride and groom in focus.
There’s a downside though. The long focal length and bright aperture
mix make this lens a heavy piece of glass. It’s also an expensive
addition to your wedding photography kit.
The general rule is to keep your shutter speed above the focal
length. While it’s easy to shoot a 50mm at 1/50 s in limited light but
the 1/200 s suggested for a 200mm is harder to do. This is where that
lens stabilization comes in.
The longer the lens, the more important image stabilization is. If
you can only afford to get stabilization on one lens, get it on the
longest one in your bag.
Many wedding photographers use both a 24-70mm and a 70-200mm to
capture the wedding day. These work particularly well during parts of
the day when the pace of events isn’t ideal for lens swaps.
As far as wedding lenses go, this is the most necessary addition.
The Nikon AF-S f/2.8
is a top-quality professional lens with a price to match. But it has
features that a working pro appreciates. These include a solid build,
weather sealing, and a fast constant f/2.8 aperture. These are things
that make the difference. Other great features are the focus lock and
quick AF with a silent wave motor.
This Nikon delivers beautiful bokeh, edge-to-edge sharpness, and
bright and clear images. And it’s why it’s a favorite among working
professional Nikon users.
Canon photographers rave about the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L‘s
mix of sharpness and bokeh with the telephoto zoom range. And they are
right. I’ve used one quite a lot, and it is a joy. For portraits and
shots from the back of the church, it shines. The bokeh defines the word
“creamy.”
When you look at the results, you will think you were mistaken at how
dark the church was. In the images, the interiors will glow. It’s solid
and well made. The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L will endure everything that a wedding photographer’s life will throw at it.
This Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8AF
brings a pro-level 70-200mm lens to the Sony E-mount. The gray color
sets it apart as a serious lens. And its specifications fit with this
designation. It boasts a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture and twin linear
motors for the AF.
Magnesium alloy construction brings lightness and strength. And
weather sealing means that the rain won’t bring anxiety for your kit.
Sony has the video community in mind, so you’ll find little focus breathing and very fast AF. All in all, the FE 70-200mm f/2.8 is a very competent lens for the busy professional.
Third-party lenses are generally cheaper than the OEM equivalent. This Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 is no exception. You will generally save 30% or more over the OEM. And in this case, without much penalty.
The Tamron is optically superb. It has the same constant f/2.8
maximum aperture and excellent sharpness. The bokeh is as fantastic as
its more expensive rivals. AF is fast and quiet, and the 3-mode IS is
very effective.
If you use automatic lens corrections in-camera, then this isn’t the
lens for you. Unlike own-brand lenses, Nikon and Canon do not supply
profiles for this lens. So this would have to be done in post.
But for day-to-day performance, this is an excellent choice. It is available for Nikon and Canon.
Sigma doesn’t make an Art 70-200mm zoom. But this Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM lens is still superb. It’s generally more expensive than the Tamron, it’s still cheaper than an OEM lens.
But it doesn’t skimp on features or quality. Image sharpness is
excellent and bokeh is nearly on a par with the Canon. Autofocus is
quick and nearly silent. AF can be limited to reduce hunting, and there
are two IS modes to account for panning as well as general shake.
And the Sigma has one extra trick up its sleeve (or magnesium
barrel). It comes in the form of a programmable function button on the
lens. It’s a pro-level lens with a considerable cost saving over its OEM
rivals. It is available for Nikon and Canon mounts.
Best 85mm and 50mm Prime Lenses for Wedding Photography
Prime lenses offer a brighter aperture than the 70-200mm ones. Some
brands even offer more efficient autofocus and higher-quality shots.
Without all those zoom components, most prime lenses are also lighter
and cheaper.
The 85mm is an excellent focal length for portraits, particularly on
full frame cameras. The focal length is more flattering than a wider
angle. But it still allows you to take portraits in venues with limited
space.
Although the background separation isn’t quite as nice as an 85mm,
the 50mm is also a popular choice for portraits. For wedding
photographers who need to make the budget, a 50mm lens is an excellent
option. It offers that bright aperture without the big price tag.
The brighter aperture of an f/1.8 prime will allow for even smoother backgrounds in portraits. Some brands go even wider, down to f/1.4 or f/1.2.
The wider aperture is also excellent for limited light when that
f/2.8 isn’t enough to get a nicely lit shot. This lens is helpful during
ceremonies and other low-light portions of the day.
Best Sigma Prime Portrait Lens
Sigma 85mm f/1.4 SLD Art EF HSM Prime Lens For Canon EF-Mount
This Sigma 85mm f/1.4
is another high-quality offering in the Sigma Art range of lenses.
Built with the professional in mind, it has a weather-sealed body and
full-time manual focus.
Bright, sharp images show minimal aberration, and the f/1.4 maximum
aperture is perfect for low-light situations. And importantly for a
portrait lens, you get smooth bokeh.
Low dispersion glass, a hypersonic motor, and multicoating complete the specs for this impressive lens. The Sigma 85mm f/1.4 is not cheap. But it is a quality lens.
Bright and affordable, the Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.8G
is Nikon’s best portrait lens for a wedding photographer with a smaller
budget. It is exceptionally sharp, with little-to-no distortion or
aberration.
It has a gasket to seal the lens-to-camera connection that protects
your camera’s internals. And it has constant manual focus available.
If your budget is tight, the Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.8G will deliver sharp, bright images at a very reasonable cost.
As a portrait favorite, this Canon EF 85mm f/1.8
lens delivers exceptionally sharp images. The almost-silent USM focus
motor is fast and accurate. And the bokeh is as good as you can get.
This is important for your wedding photography.
It’s not an L series lens, so the price is very reasonable. It is
small and lightweight, so it’s easy to carry in your camera bag. And it
won’t disappoint with image quality.
This Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 is a great choice for Canon users of all kinds, not just wedding photographers.
This Sony FE 85mm f/1.8
is a popular option for Sony shooters, it is noted for its sharpness
and compact size. It is another example of a less expensive lens
performing almost as well as its more expensive counterpart.
This lens has superb optics. And its compact size works well with
mirrorless cameras. The autofocus is super fast and silent. And the
bokeh is breathtaking.
If you’re looking for a portrait lens for your Sony camera, then this Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 is likely to impress.
This Fujifilm XF 56mm f/1.2
is equivalent to an 85mm lens on a full frame camera. It produces
pleasingly sharp images and has excellent bokeh. The f/1.2 maximum
aperture makes this very fast for the price.
Some reviews report that the autofocus is not as fast or reliable as
the user might hope. This might, of course, depends on the camera model
being used as well. But there are no complaints about the quality of the
images the Fujifilm XF 56mm f/1.2 produces. It’s a good choice for a Fujifilm camera user.
But this f/1.4 lens produces clear and sharp images in very poor
light. If you’ve only experienced zoom lenses at f/4 or above, you will
be amazed at what you can achieve with an f/1.4!
The 50mm lens is perfect at a wedding for capturing groups of people without distorting the image. This Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 is the sort of lens that you might rarely take off your camera.
The Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8 is a nice portrait lens that performs well in low light without breaking the bank. The Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.4G is also excellent. But it sits at about twice the price in exchange for that lower aperture.
This lens is super sharp and has a fast autofocus that’s nearly
silently. You can override the AF at any time with the manual focus
ring.
Bokeh is pleasingly good, and will give your wedding photos a pleasant backdrop. This Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8 is a great choice for Nikon users.
Affordable and bright, this Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 is a good portrait option. The optics are super sharp. Bokeh is outstanding and among the best you will find.
This isn’t an expensive lens, although it is when compared to, say,
the Canon f/1.8. This makes the slightly slow and noisy AF more of a
disappointment.
Any distortion of aberration is capably dealt with by the camera’s
built-in compensation settings. The camera also handles the programming
of the electronic manual focus ring. You will have to choose the correct
settings to make that available.
A fast 50mm lens is as close as you get to a “must-have” lens. For Sony users, the Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 should be high on the list. Best 35mm Lenses for Wedding Photography
Wedding photography involves storytelling. And sometimes you need a wider lens to capture the shots that tell the story. A prime 35mm is brighter and lighter than a wide telephoto lens.
35mm prime lenses are often bright and affordable. These are
excellent for everything. From capturing the entire ceremony setup in
one shot to photographing the entire dance floor.
Wide, bright, and lightweight, this Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G
is a popular option for getting wide shots of the wedding day. It has
top-notch optical quality and a fast, accurate autofocus. Manual focus
override is available at all times via the focus ring.
It’s a neat and compact lens, with little noticeable distortion or aberration. Flare and ghosts are almost nonexistent.
The Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G is a solid choice of medium wide-angle lens for the Nikon camera user.
This Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L lens
is pricey for a prime. But photographers who have shot with it praise
its sharpness as well as that extra-wide aperture. Image quality is
superb. This is a combination of pin-sharp optics, negligible
distortion, and almost nonexistent flare and ghosting.
Although you pay a lot of money for this lens, you feel its quality
in its build quality. It feels sturdy and is weather sealed for
demanding pro use. Everything works smoothly. Autofocus is fast and
quiet, like we’ve come to expect from a Canon.
Anyone looking for a top-quality medium-wide lens for their Canon will be delighted with the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L.
It’s a familiar pattern by now. A Sigma Art lens that delivers superb performance at a less terrifying price than an OEM lens. The Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Art delivers superb images, and is built like a proper pro lens.
Weather sealing, a hypersonic focus motor, and various low- or
super-low dispersion elements contribute to its performance. It’s a
top-quality lens that will survive heavy daily use. The Sigma 35mm f/1.4
Art is available for Canon and Nikon cameras.
This Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2 R
compact lens is the equivalent of a 35mm on a full frame camera. It is
particularly attractive in its silver version. It’s perfect if you have
the beautifully-stylish Fujifilm X-T4 to pair it with.
Looks aren’t everything, of course. But here the looks reflect the
quality. It’s mainly metal construction with etched numbers and includes
an aperture ring. The optics won’t disappoint, either. Images are sharp
and clear and it delivers beautiful bokeh as well.
If video is important to you, then you’ll like the absence of focus breathing with the XF 35mm f/2 lens.
Best Macro Lenses for Wedding Photography
Ring shots and detail photos may only make up some of the wedding albums, but they are important.
Along with ring shots, a macro lens captures other details like flowers or architecture. You can even use them for portraits, like a shot of the bride’s eyelashes and makeup.
Macro lenses
come in all different focal lengths and apertures. A longer focal
length will offer more separation for the background. But getting
close-up shots on a macro level already provides significant softness.
That means an f/1.2 isn’t necessary for a wedding photographer.
If you do pick up a brighter macro lens, you don’t have to use it for
just macro. Many lenses allow you to switch off the close-up mode,
which results in shooting like a normal lens. Buying a bright macro that
doubles as a portrait prime can help stretch the budget.
Like with a telephoto, stabilization is more important on a macro
than a wide-angle. The close magnification will exaggerate any camera shake.
This Nikon AF-S FX 105mm f/2.8
has a life-sized 1:1 magnification and stabilization. It is very good
value. With sophisticated multi-coatings and aspherical elements, the
image quality is excellent.
Bokeh is good and smooth. Of course, macro is the main reason you
might buy this lens. True 1:1 reproduction comes with this lens, and the
performance is great. The biggest drawback is the focus breathing.
Normally it’s only a consideration for video, but it can be an issue for
macro work. You might frame your subject, then focus, then find the
framing is now all wrong. It takes some practice.
But for the money you get a reasonably fast f/2.8 105mm lens with an added macro bonus. This makes the AF-S FX 105mm f/2.8 an attractive proposition.
This Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro
has an excellent reputation. It is perhaps best thought of as a medium
telephoto lens with the added bonus of macro. This makes it perfect for
weddings.
You might want a close-up of the flowers, rings, or details of the
dress. But most of all you want a lovely portrait-length lens with
smooth bokeh, image stabilization, and a fast maximum aperture.
This Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro
lens offers stabilization and a 1:1 ratio. Some wedding photographers
suggest that the autofocus is a bit slower than the equivalent from big
brands.
105mm is a surprisingly useful focal length for wedding photography.
And with Sigma’s IS and the quality of the lens elements and
multicoating, this is a solid choice.
The Sigma 105mm f/2.8 Macro is available for Nikon and Canon mounts.
The Sony FE 90mm f/2.8
is a highly regarded lens. One interesting feature is the push/pull
focus ring. This switches instantly between manual and autofocus. It’s
one of the ways Sony has rethought the process for their mirrorless
cameras.
As well as pin-sharp images, this lens delivers beautiful, rich
bokeh. Autofocus is super fast and silent. It’s perfect for video.
With the FE 90mm f/2.8 Sony has produced an excellent value, very competent lens with genuine 1:1 magnification.
This Fujifilm XF 80mm f/2.8
offers a 120mm equivalent and shoots close enough to get a 1:1 ratio.
120mm is perhaps more useful for macro photography. It allows you to
shoot a little further from your subject. This makes lighting it easier.
The focusing system in this lens is designed to produce the clearest
focus possible whatever the distance to the subject. This is more of a
challenge with a macro lens. But Fujifilm has done it well.
Other highlights are special fluorine coating on the front element,
IS, and weather sealing. It’s not the cheapest lens, but the XF 80mm f/2.8 is a sound choice for the Fujifilm camera user.
How Many Wedding Lenses Do You Need?
A wedding photographer needs enough focal lengths to cover the
wedding from start to finish. How many lenses that means is different
for every photographer.
Photographers with enough clients to support a big budget may have
one lens in each category. They might even have a few duplicates as
backups. Others may shoot with only two or three lenses.
The choice of a focal length also varies based on style.
Some favor the separating power of a big lens. Others enjoy the
storytelling feel of a wide-angle that captures the full scene.
Lenses are difficult to judge based on tech specs alone. If you’re
still not sure if you should get that pricey brand name or a third-party
lens, try renting one.
Renting is an affordable way to rest easy in your choice. Some rental
companies will allow you to buy the rental lens if you end up liking
it. If you don’t, it’s a much cheaper loss than finding you don’t use
that focal length after purchasing it.
Prioritize what focal lengths you need most to capture the entire event in your own style.
Photo by Emma Bauso from Pexels
Choosing the best lens for wedding photography is important. You need it to capture the entirety of the day.
The most popular lenses for this niche are the 24-70mm and 70-200mm
bright zooms. For primes, think of 85mm, 50mm 35mm, and a macro.
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