DSLR Lenses – Part 4 – What we use and why we use it!

In part 4 of our lens series I wanted to cut to the chase and show you guys/gals what lenses we use here at 31Films and why. I’ll also throw in a wishlist in case anybody wants to buy something for me for a belated Christmas:)

Lets get to it! The video above shows these lenses in action.

Canon 50mm Macro:
This was the first lens that I purchased when I bought my 5D M2. I really love this lens. It gives me 50mm, which is similar to what your eye sees, plus it allows you to focus ultra close for dress detail shots, ring close ups, or whatever else tickles your fancy.

Canon 50mm 1.2 L:
Ok, so this is a pretty expensive lens. Honestly I think it is a luxury more than a necessity. It does allow you to shoot in incredibly low light. The shallow depth of field at 1.2 is pretty insane. Sometimes I think it is a little much, but to each is own. On the 7D it looks more like a 85mm which is pretty sweet.

Canon 24mm 2.8mm prime
This is a great and cheap lens if you want to shoot nice wide shots. We use this on the steadicam merlin. The lens is so lightweight I can literally shoot all day handheld on my steadicam merlin with no problems.

Canon 24-70mm 2.8 L:
If you were to only have 1 lens, I would say this has to be it. It gives you a great range of wide to mid tight shots. You can even shoot macro with this lens. We typically shoot the entire pre-ceremony and most of the reception with this lens. We also use this lens on our steadicam merlin. It is a lot heavier than the 24mm prime, so it is more stable, BUT your arms will get tired pretty quick with this.

Sigma 24-70mm 2.8:
This is a fantastic lens. It is a ton cheaper than the Canon L, and based on my side by side comparison, in video mode, it is virtually exactly the same. So if you find yourself needing a short zoom, but don’t have much coin in the pocket, try the Sigma.

Canon 70-200mm 2.8 L IS:
An an absolute MUST HAVE if you ever shoot in big churches or need to shoot far away. This is the main lens that we use for ceremony as well as during the reception for first dances to get that ultra closeup. I would not advise shooting handheld with this lens. We also have a 2X extender to make the zoom twice as far for those old catholic churches where you are stuck in the choir loft. Keep in mind, if you buy a 2X extender, you will be forced to shoot at F5.6 or higher which makes you lose a TON of light. Just be aware of that.

My wish list:
I’ve rented these lenses and I’m blown away by them.
Canon 24mm Tilt Shift 3.5 L (insane perspectives)
Canon 14mm (amazing wide angle)

Joey Mathews