Ask Anything
The Lineup | What's in my Bag
Ask Anything ~ September 12, 2011
When I
first started, I blog stalked like no one’s business. I watched my favorite photographer’s EVERY move! It wasn’t because I was a creeper… even though at times I felt like one… it was because I was desperate to LEARN. I seriously learned SO much from reading other photographer’s blogs and watching them as they continued to grow THEIR business. I wanted whatever lenses Jasmine was shooting with and whatever light setup Justin and Mary were using etc. etc. There is nothing wrong with that! It gave me a place to START! However, I think I’m finally at a place where I’m making decisions based on what “I” need for my business,
not just copying the “big guys”. And when I refer to “The Big Guys”… that’s not a weight reference… I’m talking about the leaders in the industry, the photogs I look up to, the ones that are setting the bar and setting it high. I’m so thankful for them. So I began shooting with prime lenses because I found out that I loved shooting wide open. I started with Canon’s 50mm and my collection grew from there. I can honestly say that I’m DONE with lens purchases for a long time. Michael doesn’t believe me… but I’m serious. No more. I literally have everything I could ever need and I’m thankful. There are some mega-lenses out there that I would love to shoot with but they cost more than our new car, so that will never happen (and that was an exaggeration).
Ok, so lets get to this! A lot of people email and ask about what’s in my bag and so I wanted to do a post that I can refer them to that explains my equipment. Below are my Canon L Series lenses. I only shoot with Canon lenses just because I LOVE them and I wanted them to all have a matching red ring around the top…just kidding… kinda. The image below shows all of my lenses (besides the 50 1.4 that I was shooting with and a 24-105 4.0 that I never use). They are lined up in the order of USAGE. So on the left, you’ll see my 50 1.2 because I use that the MOST! On the far right, you’ll see my 135 2.0 because I use it the least. Here is the lineup:
Canon 50mm 1.2
Canon 85mm 1.2
Canon 35mm 1.4
Canon 100mm Macro 2.8
Canon 24mm 1.4
Canon 70-200mm 2.8
Canon 24-70mm 2.8
Canon 135mm 2.0
With the exception of the 135, I usually use all of these at a single wedding. I switch lenses A LOT and my new Kelly Moore bag makes that so simple! I’ll introduce you to that soon!! I think using a variety of lenses on a wedding day really gives the couple a variety of shots! I love using a wide angle and then switching to my 50 to get closer and then switching to my 85 for a really intimate shot. I can do that in each location and have a TON of images that are all very different and my clients didn’t even move! I’m going to explain a little more about each lens and give you an example from Dan and Kelsey’s wedding! Before I continue, let me just reiterate that these lenses work for ME. I love using them for my wedding photography but if you’re a new photographer, be sure to figure out what lenses you love on your own. I spent way to much time just buying what other people used and not really researching anything for myself. Borrowlenses.com is a GREAT resource for new photographers trying to find their perfect lenses!
So here is my 85 1.2. I love this lens and I first used one at Chris and Katie’s South Carolina Wedding last July. I was sold on it! I bought it as soon as I got home and I blame that $2000 purchase on Chris Isham!!! It’s a sharp lens with an incredible DOF. I recommend it for more advanced photographers, if you’re brand new, you would be wise to spend your money on a more versatile lens like this next one…..
The 50 1.2! My Baby… my old faithful…I love this lens! I feel the MOST comfortable shooting with this lens. I feel like we have a close bond and if I use my 85 too much, this little guy gets jealous. Well, I say “little guy” but this is a fat lens. The 50 1.2 is the BEST starter lens for a photographer. However, it’s a bit pricey. If you can’t afford the 1.2, start with the 1.4. Many ask if the 1.2 is WORTH the extra money and they answer is YES. It’s a totally different world when you enter the “L” series and would highly recommend it.
My Canon 100 2.8 is my Macro lens. I only shoot details with this lens but it CAN be used during a ceremony and actually does a great job!! It’s a great second shooter lens in that regard. When I shoot details, I focus manually with this lens. It’s sharp and relatively lightweight and I couldn’t live without it!
The 35 1.4 was my BEST investment this year. It’s wide but there isn’t any distortion like the 24mm. The 24 is still as GREAT lens but when using it for LARGE family shots in a tight space, the people on the edges looked a littttttle stretched and that’s not cool! So I purchased the 35 1.4 and I’ve been in love since day one! I use it at EVERY wedding!!
Ah, the 24 1.4 II… it’s a winner. It’s super wide and even though I’ve been using my 35mm more recently, the 24 cannot be replaced. It’s sharp and it’s AMAZING for indoor shots. This shot was taken in a SMALL room, I barely had room to back up but the 24 allowed me to shoot wide and capture the couple completely.
The 70-200 2.8 ….. it’s like the big mama lens that no one wants to hold. It’s SO HEAVY. However, it’s really necessary if you’re a wedding photographer. I only use this lens for the ceremony and it serves its purpose. It gives me great range and sharp images but it’s not my FAV. I use it out of necessity. For example, Kelsey and her dad entered on this bridge but they were 200 yards from the start of the aisle. Kelsey chose this location because she liked the bridge…. so I needed a shot of her coming over it but I didn’t want to run closer and be a distraction as she made her entrance so I used my 70-200 and stood at the back of the ceremony. Perfect.
These two are newbies. I love them but if I had to shoot a wedding without them, it wouldn’t be the end of the world. The 24-70 2. 8 is used for receptions when the bridal party is entering and I need to have some range. I know it seems silly to buy a lens for one moment but it’s worth it for me. I also use it for some reception dancing but I really prefer my 35 and 24 for dancing shots. The 135 2.0 is a favorite for INDOOR ceremony shots. I use it other times but it’s nice to have when the 70-200 just can’t shoot wide enough. The 2.0 it a huge difference from the 2.8 and the clarity is amazing!
I shoot with a Canon 5D Mark II and I also have a back Mark II and an old 5D….just in case! I hope this was helpful and remember…if you’re a photographer, find what works for YOU! Rent some lenses and have a ball!!! I also use 3 580ex II Canon flashes and pocket wizards. I’ve recently switched to the Pocket Wizard Flex and Mini… I’ll share more about my lighting setup one day! Promise!
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Lisa: ( March 6, 2012 4:59 pm ) THANK YOU! Thank you so much for this post! I recently purchased the 50mm and have been loving it, and am hoping to save and have the 35mm as my next purchase. I always see posts of what people carry, but they never lay it out like this so you can see what kind of shot you can get with the lens. This is a wonderfully helpful post and I really appreciate the timke you took to make it! :)
Kacey: ( January 16, 2012 12:34 am ) Love prime lenses. Can't wait for you to show your lighting setup. Hopefully that comes soon!!!! Pretty please :-)
Katie: ( January 11, 2012 7:28 pm ) This is so wonderful! When you first start out you have a limited spectrum of insight as to what to purchase and how to prioritize. This post was so wonderful to read as it reaffirmed suspicions and has sparked a bit of confidence in moving forward with my photography business. You willingness to share demonstrates your passion for the industry and strength as a photographer. I sincerely appreciate this post and always love looking at your beautiful work!
Brooke Summer Photography: ( October 10, 2011 2:15 pm ) Great information Katelyn, thank you! I recently borrowed the 24-70 2.8 from my husband's uncle and fell in love with it. :)
Stephanie: ( September 17, 2011 5:53 pm ) Yay, I love this post! I am totally one of those blog stalkers right now. Lately I have been obsessed with seeing what lenses other photogs are using so I can rent them and try 'em out for myself! Thank you for this detailed post about how and when you use these bad boys, with a photo example. Def bookmarking this for reference! :)
Mary Marantz: ( September 16, 2011 1:15 pm ) Looooooooove YOU!!! Seriously, I'm so proud of everything you're doing!! xoxox
Mary Powell: ( September 13, 2011 2:43 pm ) First of all, I LOVE your photography! I found your website on a J* link and have been hooked ever since. I'm a daily follower of the blog. Second, this post was incredibly helpful as I am just starting my business. Thanks for sharing!
Annetta: ( September 13, 2011 1:52 pm ) Thanks for sharing, Katelyn. I am also one of those photog blog stalkers!
Deborah Zoe: ( September 13, 2011 10:32 am ) always so helpful Katelyn! Great post:)
Girish: ( September 13, 2011 1:58 am ) That's a great insight on which lens to use when. Excellent guide that. Thanks.
Laura Barnes: ( September 12, 2011 9:29 pm ) This post is a huge help! Thanks so much for taking the time to share.
Suzy G: ( September 12, 2011 8:48 pm ) Oh my dream line up. I have rented and used all of those but only own a couple. I think it is great that amazing photographers are so willing to share. :)
Kristin: ( September 12, 2011 6:38 pm ) Such an awesome collection you have...need to start saving to add a few more to my collection!
Lexi: ( September 12, 2011 4:50 pm ) THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!! This just made my day! Good thing I stalk YOU on a day to day basis!
Kacey: ( September 12, 2011 4:09 pm ) It's funny you mention stalking and following other photographers. I do the same thing, as I think we all do. You just happen to be my Jasmine Star! I love your work and check your blog like 1000 times a day!
amanda: ( September 12, 2011 3:52 pm ) Thank you thank you thank you!! So so so helpful! I just got the 50 1.2 about a month ago and it's fabulous. I definitely understand why it's the one you use the most!
Inge: ( September 12, 2011 3:42 pm ) Thank you for posting, Katelyn! This is really helpful! You have fans here in Holland! :) :)
sandra: ( September 12, 2011 3:18 pm ) Thank you so much for sharing this! I have a 24-70, 85mm 1.2 and was looking to purchase a 50 1.2mm 1.2 next. All L series which is why my collection is small. : D Just purchased the mark II and it should arrive today! Your Awesome and so talented!
Jennifer Krieg: ( September 12, 2011 3:02 pm ) Katelyn!! YOU are the best & thanks so much for posting this. Made my entire day. Wooo hooo! Love all the helpful info because your so inspirational to me!!! Hugs~ Vb Fan, Jen
Abby Grace: ( September 12, 2011 2:41 pm ) YAY! I've been waiting for you to do this post ever since you said you'd do one on your FB photo page! This is so super helpful. I'm currently filling out my line of lenses, and my priorities seem to be pretty close to yours- the 35 1.4 is my next purchase. This post makes me all the more excited to furnish my collection! Thank you so much!
Jessica Burdge: ( September 12, 2011 2:29 pm ) thanks so much for the helpful tidbitz!
Debbie Dean: ( September 12, 2011 2:03 pm ) SO helpful (though SO intimidating too! man do i have a long way to go!) but thanks so much for sharing!!! love these "behind the scenes" posts. and thanks for the encouragement to not base my desires for lenses and whatnot on other photographers! :)