Best Lens for Wedding Photography

Wedding
Written By Alexander Thomas

Choosing the best lens for wedding photography is one of the most important decisions a photographer can make. Weddings move quickly, lighting changes constantly, and you’ll face everything from tiny rooms to vast open spaces in the same day. No single lens will do every job perfectly, but with the right combination you can be ready for anything.

I’ve photographed weddings in Glasgow, Edinburgh, across Scotland, throughout the UK, and at destination weddings abroad. My lens choices are based on years of trial, error, and refinement. This list shares the lenses I rely on, how I use them, and why they make a difference on a wedding day.

1. Sony 24–70mm f/2.8 G Master II – The All-Round Workhorse

If I could only take one lens to a wedding, it would be this. The 24–70mm range covers almost everything — group shots, portraits, ceremonies, and candid moments. The zoom flexibility lets me reframe instantly without moving across the room, which is invaluable when moments happen fast.

I use it for:

  • Bridal prep in tight spaces where I need both wide and mid shots.

  • Ceremonies when I’m switching between the venue view and intimate moments.

  • Reception speeches where I need quick composition changes.

Its f/2.8 aperture also keeps images clean and sharp in low light without pushing ISO too high.

2. Sony 70–200mm f/2.8 G Master II – The Flattering Portrait Lens

This is my favourite lens of all time for weddings. The compression makes people look their best, backgrounds fall beautifully out of focus, and I can capture emotional moments from a distance without intruding.

I use it for:

  • Ceremony close-ups when I can’t move closer.

  • Reactions during speeches.

  • Capturing candid moments outdoors without guests noticing.

  • Details like the ring exchange or first kiss.

3. Sony 14–24mm f/2.8 – The Dramatic Scene Setter

I come from an architectural photography background, so I know how powerful a wide lens can be when used correctly. The 14–24mm is my go-to for dramatic venue shots and sweeping landscapes.

I use it for:

  • Venue exteriors and interiors.

  • Large group shots when space is tight.

  • Creative dance floor images.

  • High vantage points for a “wow” factor.

4. Sony 85mm f/1.4 – The Classic Portrait Tool

While the 70–200mm covers this focal length, the 85mm f/1.4 gives an even shallower depth of field and a softer, more romantic look. Perfect for bride and groom portraits when I want that dreamy aesthetic.

I use it when:

  • There’s time for a relaxed portrait session.

  • I want a distinct style that stands out from the rest of the gallery.

5. Sony 90mm Macro – The Detail Specialist

I rarely use this lens during a wedding, but it’s excellent for ring shots, flowers, and intricate details. Most couples care more about people than objects, but if details are important to them, this lens ensures nothing is missed.

6. DJI Mavic 3 Pro Cine – The Aerial Perspective

When permitted, I use my drone with its Hasselblad camera to capture aerial views of venues, group arrangements, or dramatic destination wedding landscapes. It adds a unique element to the final gallery.

7. Lighting Equipment – Essential for Low Light

Natural light is my preference, but receptions and winter weddings often need extra help. I carry Godox portable flashes and continuous lights to keep images clean and flattering even in challenging light.

8. Matching Lenses to the Moment

Every part of the day calls for different tools:

  • Bridal Prep: 24–70mm for flexibility, 35mm prime in tight spaces.

  • Ceremony: 24–70mm for wide to mid shots, 70–200mm for close-ups, 14–24mm for architectural drama.

  • Couple Portraits: 85mm for romance, 70–200mm for flattering compression.

  • Reception: 70–200mm for speeches, 24–70mm or 14–24mm for the first dance and party.

9. Why I Prefer Zooms for Weddings

Primes have their place, but weddings are unpredictable. Zooms let me adapt instantly without moving through crowds or missing moments. My main pairing — 24–70mm and 70–200mm — covers 90% of what I need.

10. Destination Wedding Lens Choices

When flying abroad, weight and versatility matter even more. My destination kit is usually just the 24–70mm, 70–200mm, and the drone. This setup covers all situations without overpacking.

Final Thoughts

There’s no single answer to the best lens for wedding photography. Your choice depends on your style, budget, and the types of weddings you shoot. For me, the 24–70mm and 70–200mm combination is unbeatable for reliability, flexibility, and quality. Gun to my head? its got to be the 70-200mm GMII!

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Wedding Photography Kit – FAQs

I shoot with professional Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras. They are fast, reliable, and excellent in low light. I always carry two bodies so I can switch instantly and have a backup ready.
My main lenses are the Sony 24–70mm f/2.8 and the Sony 70–200mm f/2.8 G Master II. These cover wide scenes, portraits, ceremonies, and candid moments with minimal lens changes. I also bring a 14–24mm for dramatic venue shots and an 85mm f/1.4 for classic portraits.
I have the Sony 90mm macro for rings and fine details when it adds value to the couple’s story. However, I prioritise moments and people over staged object shots unless the couple requests them.
Yes, when the venue and conditions allow. I use a DJI Mavic 3 Pro Cine with multiple focal lengths and a Hasselblad camera for stunning aerial venue views and large group shots.
I work with natural light whenever possible and bring portable flash and continuous lighting for receptions or darker spaces. The aim is clean, flattering light without distractions.
Yes. I carry extra camera bodies, lenses, batteries, and memory cards. Every image is also recorded to two cards simultaneously for immediate backup.

If you would like to see my wedding photography services, I have more images and information you might be interested in.

Alexander Thomas
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