Wedding photography does not require heavy equipment. The main thing is to know what is needed to deliver good results while focusing on the day. Simplifying your kit can help you stay current, especially if you’re just starting out.
coming to you from luke clelandThis informative video emphasizes the creation of a minimalist wedding photography setup. Cleland starts from the foundation: a reliable camera body and a 50mm lensThis lens is versatile, ideal for portraits, and helps create a harmonious look during a wedding. Cleland shared how he initially believed that each focal length was necessary, but later realized that focusing on a single lens could improve the style and consistency of his work. The 50mm lens became his favorite choice, and he suggests it could handle an entire wedding on its own.
The video also highlights the importance of the secondary lens for both versatility and backup. cleland uses one 35mm lensWhich complements the 50mm well and adds flexibility for tight spots or group shots. For added security, he recommends a zoom lens 24-70mmThis is called a “worst case” option if something goes wrong with your primary gear. Having a secondary lens ensures that you are covered no matter what.
Cleland emphasizes the need for two camera bodies, especially for wedding work. If your primary camera fails in the middle of a shoot, the second camera ensures that you won’t miss important moments. For starters, Cleland recommends upgrading one body at a time and using the other as a backup. Over time, this approach allows you to build a professional setup without spending upfront.
A Glow This is another essential, especially for low-light situations like indoor receptions. Although boosting the ISO may work in some cases, Cleland points out that the quality of your images may suffer. A single flash can make a big difference in maintaining clarity and detail in challenging lighting environments.
Memory cards and batteries complete the essentials. Cleland prefers larger capacity SD cardLike 256 GB, to avoid frequent swapping during marriage. He also recommends dual card slots for instant backups. For batteries, having extras is not a negotiable. Cleland brings enough fully charged batteries to last an entire day without relying on charging during the event. Watch the video above for the full details from Cleland.
If you want to continue learning about wedding photography, be sure to check out “How to Become a Professional Business Wedding Photographer with Lee Morris and Patrick Hall,
