Wedding Lens??

[susanphotography]

Which lens would you choose for wedding photography? Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM OR Canon EF 70-200mm f4 L IS USM ??? I can only afford one at this time, so which would be the most practical buy? I do have a Canon 16-35mm Wide Lens. Please help.

[amk1977]

Although I am a Nikon user and can't speak from personal experience from using either of these lenses, the 24-70mm would seem to me, to be a more useable zoom range than the 70-200mm. The 24mm will still allow for group shots, while the 70mm will be a good portrait length. The wide aperture would be more accomodating in low light situations where indoor flash is not permitted, as well as having a shallow depth of field.

Do you have the Canon 50mm f/1.8 MKII? If you don't, you may want to consider it, as it is also an excellent portrait lens, ideal for weddings because of its low light capabilities and is only about £90 new.

[hssutton]

If you're using a full frame camera then the 24-70 f/2.8 mm is a good choice, especially when paired with the 70-200 f/2.8.

For a cropped camera then look at the 17-55mm f/2.8 as you may find the 24-70 a little on the long side for wedding groups. As for the 50mm f/2.8, this can be bought for as little as £70 inc P&P in the UK by buying from "Kerso" direct.

[chris-p]

Impossible to say without knowing what other lenses you already have and what camera you use?

[karenoliver]

I would go for the fastest lens , the 24-70mm because you want to be able to cope with poor light if it presents itself.

Karen

[Stormsong]

You can 'only afford' one L-series lens at this time? Oh my goodness, you are in a very fortunate position! I would go for the 24-70mm for portrait and low light as mentioned elsewhere in this thread.

[ianpinion]

The only point I'd add to what has already been said is that it's a good idea to have something like the 24-70mm lens on one camera body and have a 70-200mm lens on another. You'll need both configurations to shoot a wedding as one lens is just not enough to cover everything, whilst still getting the image quality you need.

[susanphotography]

Thank you all for your advice. My aim is to have 3 main lenses, the 16-35mm; 24-70mm and 70-200mm. Just needed to know which order to sell my house, car, soul , etc for Having to hire equipment in the mean time, lol. I am from South Africa, so unfortunately do not have as great a selection of retail outlets, local sources etc as freely available. And always good to hear what others think on the matter. SO, have the wide angle, now to purchase the 24-70mm according to all your advice and still save save save for the rest! Many thanks.