What lenses should I start with for family, children, and event photography on a Canon 7D?
Asked 10/20/2012
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I'm starting a photography business focused on families, children, and events, mostly in natural light with some indoor event work. I'm considering a Canon 7D because I can't afford a 5D Mark III right now, and I keep hearing that lenses matter more than the camera body. What lens kit would be a good starting point for this type of work, especially for low light and fast-moving subjects?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
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You should also consider the Canon 5DmkII. I know several who have both and find the mkII to be the better choice at half the price. Sure the mkIII is better, but worth 2x as much? Only for some, and probably not someone like yourself (new to the business).
As for lenses, if you are shooting in low light you will need good AF. A 24-70L is a great lens. I had the Tamron 28-75 and it is a great lens, but the AF was not great in low light. The 24-70 was significantly better.
The 70-200 2.8 is another must for event shooters. I use the non-IS lens and don't wish I had the IS very often.
A 50 1.8 ($80) is a must for any bag. The 1.8 85mm is also a good standby for a decent price ($300).
Look at fredmiranda.com for great deals on Canon gear. Many pros who sell their gear, or amateurs who are always swapping out gear. Great prices and very reputable sellers.
Originally by user13151. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user13151
13y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
For this kind of work, prioritize lenses with reliable autofocus and good low-light performance.
A strong starter setup mentioned by photographers is:
- 24-70mm f/2.8: a very versatile everyday lens for families, kids, and events. It’s especially useful if you need dependable autofocus in lower light.
- 70-200mm f/2.8: a classic event lens for candid moments and working from a distance. Even the non-IS version can be very useful.
- 50mm f/1.8: an inexpensive, useful prime that belongs in almost any kit.
- 85mm f/1.8: another affordable prime that works well for portraits and low light.
On the camera side, one answer also suggested considering a used or lower-cost full-frame option like the 5D Mark II if budget allows, but if the 7D is what you can afford, investing in strong lenses is still a smart approach.
In short: start with a 24-70mm f/2.8, add a 70-200mm f/2.8 for events, and keep a 50mm or 85mm prime for portraits and low-light situations.
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