As a wedding and portrait photographer, the choice of lenses can significantly impact the quality and style of your images. In this article, we will delve into the favorite lenses of Canon Explorer of Light, Sal Cincotta. He shares his insights on the three go-to lenses that not only elevate his photography but also allow him to creatively capture the essence of each moment.

Understanding the Importance of Lens Selection

Choosing the right lens is crucial for achieving the desired look and feel in your photographs. Sal emphasizes the role lenses play in determining depth of field, compression, and overall image quality. Whether shooting an intimate wedding ceremony or a portrait session, having the right tools can make all the difference.

1. Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM: The Workhorse

One of Sal’s primary choices is the Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens. This lens is known as a true workhorse for several reasons:

• Range: It covers a range from semi-wide to mid-shots, making it versatile for various settings, from full-body portraits to intimate close-ups.
• Compression: This lens excels at compressing backgrounds. For instance, when photographing a couple against a church in the distance, it brings the architecture closer, enhancing the composition.
• Shallow Depth of Field: At f/2.8, it provides a beautiful bokeh, which is particularly beneficial for wedding photography where distractions in the background can detract from the subject.

Sal mentions he often uses this lens about 75% of the time during weddings, making it indispensable for preparing shots in busy environments like hotel rooms, where distracting elements might compromise the photo’s quality.

2. Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM: The Portrait Specialist

Next on Sal’s list is the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM lens. This prime lens is known for its stunning image quality and exceptional depth of field:

• Breathtaking Bokeh: The wide f/1.2 aperture allows for an incredible falloff, creating a soft background that beautifully complements the subject.
• Soft Skin Effect: Sal describes how this lens naturally softens skin texture, eliminating harsh shadows and creating a smooth, milky effect on the subject without the need for heavy post-editing.
• Creative Flexibility: While it may not always be used as frequently as the 70-200mm, when Sal does use the 85mm, it adds a unique signature to his portraits, making them stand out.

For bridal portraits or senior pictures, the Canon RF 85mm allows for striking imagery that captures the essence of the subject with clarity and beauty.

3. Canon RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM: The Versatile Swiss Army Knife

Lastly, the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM serves as a versatile option in Sal’s kit:

• Adaptable Range: This lens can handle various scenarios—from full-body shots to environmental portraits—allowing for creativity in space-limited situations.
• Fast Glass Quality: The f/2 aperture enables a pleasing depth of field and superb sharpness, providing stunning clarity and detail in images.
• Straight Lines: Unlike some other wide-angle lenses, this model maintains straight lines, minimizing distortion, which is essential for architectural shots and portraits.

Though heavier than typical lenses, the clarity and quality it provides make it worth the investment for serious photographers. Sal enjoys leveraging this lens to mix both the subject and environment in a single frame, enriching the storytelling aspect of his photography.

Choosing the Right Lens for Your Style

Selecting the appropriate lens isn’t just about the technical specifications—it’s also about understanding your photographic style and the kind of results you aim to achieve. Sal advises photographers to envision the final image before even reaching for a lens.

Key Considerations When Choosing Lenses

1. Intended Use: Ask yourself what type of photography you do most. Is it intimate portraits, expansive landscapes, or a combination?
2. Depth of Field Needs: Do you prefer the vibrant bokeh of an f/1.2 lens, or will f/2.8 provide sufficient background separation?
3. Weight and Portability: Heavy lenses can be challenging to manage all day during events like weddings. Consider your comfort.
4. Editing Style: Think ahead about how the images will be processed and presented. This can influence your choice of glass.

Conclusion

In summary, Sal Cincotta’s three go-to lenses—Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM, Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM, and Canon RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM—offer a diverse range of capabilities, suitable for wedding and portrait photography. Each lens serves a specific purpose and enhances the creative process in different ways. By understanding these tools and leveraging their strengths, photographers can create breathtaking images that capture the essence of their subjects.

Ready to elevate your photography with the right lens choices? Experiment, explore, and discover how each of these remarkable lenses can enhance your artistry in wedding and portrait photography!