What’s in my bag? My wedding Photography Kit
As a professional wedding photographer at lmphotography.uk, my gear is my best ally in capturing the beautiful, fleeting moments of a couple’s special day. Over the years, I’ve found the Canon 5D Mark IV and its predecessor, the Mark III, to be indispensable tools in my kit. These cameras, paired with a selection of high-quality lenses, allow me to create stunning wedding albums that tell a timeless story.
The Canon 5D Mark IV and Mark III
The Canon 5D Mark IV is my go-to camera body for weddings. Its 30.4 megapixel full-frame sensor delivers outstanding image quality, and the Dual Pixel autofocus system ensures sharp focus even in challenging lighting conditions. The dynamic range and low-light performance are particularly impressive, allowing me to capture clear, detailed images in dimly lit venues without excessive noise.
The Mark III, while an older model, remains a reliable backup. Its 22.3 megapixel sensor and robust build quality have served me well over many weddings. Although it doesn’t quite match the Mark IV in terms of resolution and autofocus capabilities, it still delivers beautiful images and is a workhorse when it comes to wedding photography.
Essential Lenses for Wedding Photography
To complement these camera bodies, I rely on a selection of Canon lenses that cover a wide range of focal lengths and apertures. Here are my top picks:
- Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM: This telephoto zoom lens is perfect for capturing candid moments from a distance. Its fast f/2.8 aperture allows for beautiful background blur, making subjects stand out sharply against soft, dreamy backgrounds. The image stabilization is a lifesaver during the ceremony when I need to keep the camera steady without a tripod.
- Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM: Versatility is key in wedding photography, and this lens provides a great focal range for various shots throughout the day. From wide-angle group photos to medium telephoto portraits, it handles it all. The f/4 aperture is sufficient for well-lit conditions, and the image stabilization ensures sharp images even in less-than-ideal lighting.
- Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM: Known for its speed and excellent low-light performance, this prime lens is a favourite for capturing intimate portraits and details. The f/1.4 aperture allows for a shallow depth of field, creating beautiful bokeh that enhances the romantic feel of wedding photos.
- Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM: When it comes to capturing the grandeur of a venue or the energy of a packed dance floor, this wide-angle lens is unbeatable. The fast f/2.8 aperture is great for low-light situations, and the wide field of view captures the full scope of the scene, making it perfect for those dramatic, sweeping shots.
Bringing It All Together
Using the Canon 5D Mark IV and Mark III, along with these carefully chosen lenses, I’m able to adapt to the fast-paced and unpredictable nature of wedding photography. Each lens serves a specific purpose, ensuring I’m prepared for every moment, from the grandiose to the intimate.
Ultimately, the key to great wedding photography lies not just in the gear but in the ability to anticipate and capture the emotions of the day. With my trusty Canon equipment, I’m able to focus on what really matters: creating beautiful, lasting memories for my clients. If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who combines technical expertise with a passion for storytelling, contact me. Let’s make your special day unforgettable together.