The short answer
Wedding photographers commonly rely on a 24-70mm f/2.8 standard zoom and a 70-200mm f/2.8 telephoto zoom, often supplemented by one or more fast primes such as 35mm, 50mm or 85mm for low light and portraits. Exact choices depend on your camera system, budget and style. Some photographers prefer a lighter kit built mainly around primes, while others lean on zooms for flexibility.
If you are new to the terms used here, camera lens basics explains focal length and aperture.
24-70mm f/2.8
This is often described as a workhorse because it covers wide scene-setting shots, group photos and tighter candids without a lens change. Weddings move quickly, so not having to swap lenses is a real benefit. The constant f/2.8 aperture helps in dim rooms, though it is not as wide as a fast prime. These lenses are usually heavy and relatively expensive, though third-party options may cost less.
70-200mm f/2.8
The telephoto zoom lets you photograph from a distance during the ceremony, speeches and first dance without disturbing the moment. It also compresses backgrounds for flattering portraits. Stabilisation is helpful here, and its controls are explained in camera lens settings. Be aware of its weight over a full day.
Fast primes: 35mm, 50mm, 85mm
Primes with apertures such as f/1.4 or f/1.8 gather more light than f/2.8 zooms and give a softer background.
- 35mm: A documentary-style favourite for getting-ready rooms, dancing and environmental portraits.
- 50mm: A natural perspective, compact and often affordable. See street photography with a 50mm lens for how it handles close, candid work.
- 85mm: A common portrait length for couple and individual portraits. Read more in the best lens for portrait photography.
Primes are useful for dark churches and receptions where flash is not allowed, though you must zoom with your feet.
Wide-angle and all-in-one options
- A wide lens in the 16mm to 24mm range can help with venue shots, tight rooms and group photos, but use it carefully near faces.
- Some newer zooms, such as 35-150mm-style lenses with wide apertures, are marketed to cover much of a wedding on a single body. They can be a good fit for simpler kits, but check size, weight and autofocus reviews.
- Superzooms are convenient but typically have smaller maximum apertures, which limits low-light use.
Matching lenses to parts of the day
- Getting ready: 35mm or 24-70mm, including details with a macro or short prime.
- Ceremony: 70-200mm from a distance, with a 24-70mm or 35mm for wider views.
- Group and couple portraits: 85mm, 24-70mm or 70-200mm.
- Reception and dancing: 35mm or 50mm primes, or a 24-70mm with flash.
Always check with the venue or officiant about restrictions on flash and positions.
Building a kit and budget options
- Start with one dependable standard zoom or a fast 35mm or 50mm.
- Add a telephoto or 85mm for ceremonies and portraits.
- Carry two camera bodies if you can, so you avoid swapping lenses at critical moments and have a backup.
- Consider renting lenses before buying, especially for expensive f/2.8 zooms.
- Bring spare batteries and memory cards.
Professionals typically hold backup equipment, since a wedding cannot be repeated.
Other questions
- Event photography: Similar lenses apply: a standard zoom, a telephoto and a fast prime for dim venues.
- Film weddings: Choice of camera depends on personal preference and availability, and there is no single answer. Lens principles remain the same.
- Real estate: Interiors typically call for wide-angle lenses; this is a different job from weddings.