How to Photograph Weddings Like a Pro - 2 Cameras, 3 Lenses
Wedding photography is more than just taking beautiful pictures—it’s about storytelling, capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments, and navigating the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of a wedding day. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your approach, here’s a breakdown of my wedding photography workflow, why I use two camera bodies, and the three essential lenses I rely on.
Why I Love Shooting Weddings
Weddings are full of raw, real moments—the first look, the emotions during vows, the pure joy on the dance floor. Every wedding is different, and that keeps me inspired. My goal is always to capture the couple’s story in a way that feels authentic and timeless.
Why I Shoot with Two Camera Bodies
Having two cameras is non-negotiable for me. Here’s why:
Reliability & Backup – Weddings are unpredictable, and gear can fail. Batteries die, SD cards corrupt, and cameras can glitch. If one camera stops working mid-ceremony, I have a backup ready to go. There are no second chances for key moments like the first kiss.
Efficiency & Photojournalism – I use two cameras with different lenses, allowing me to capture a variety of shots without constantly swapping lenses and missing important moments.
Versatility – One camera is set for quick documentary/photojournalism, the other for tighter editorial moments or dreamy portraits. This setup helps me document weddings in a way that’s immersive and comprehensive.
The Three Essential Lenses I Use
To capture every aspect of a wedding, I rely on three lenses:
Sigma 24-70mm f2.8 – The Workhorse
This is my go-to lens for versatility. Whether I need a wide shot of the ceremony or a tight detail shot of the rings, this lens does it all. It’s sharp, reliable, and perfect for fast-paced wedding environments.
Sirui Anora 85mm f1.4 – The Cinematic Portrait Lens
For dreamy, cinematic portraits, this lens is unbeatable. The depth and compression it creates make couple portraits look magical. It’s my go-to for intimate, emotional moments where I want the couple to truly stand out from the background.
Sony G 40mm f2.5 – Cocktail Hour & Dance Floor
This compact, lightweight lens is my secret weapon for capturing natural, candid moments. Because it’s small, guests feel less intimidated, allowing for more relaxed and authentic shots. I also pair it with an off-camera flash to create an editorial, paparazzi-style look, which makes dance floor photos feel alive and energetic.
Final Thoughts
The best wedding photographers don’t just rely on good gear—they master their tools. Having two cameras allows for efficiency and backup, while the right lens choices ensure you're ready for any part of the day.
If this guide helped you, let me know in the comments or hit reply if you’re reading this via email! What’s your go-to wedding photography setup? Let’s talk gear!
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