Choosing the Right L Lens for Your Everyday Shooting
Your personal take on everyday shooting can vary, as can the lens choice. For me, the go-to L lens has been the 50mm f/1.2L, which I've used for over 99% of my pictures in the past decade. However, understanding your needs is crucial in selecting the right lens. Variables such as the sensor size of your camera can significantly influence your decision.
Factors Influencing Lens Choice
Many photographers opt for a 200mm f/2.8 or 70–200mm f/4 as their first L lens primarily due to the fact that these are some of the cheapest L lenses available. Additionally, telephoto lenses excel in delivering high image quality (IQ) at longer focal lengths, making them ideal for professional work.
However, it's important to note that telephoto lenses don't always fit the bill as "everyday" lenses for all photographers. The 24–70mm f/2.8 or 24–105mm f/4 are superior choices for what can be considered "normal" lenses on full-frame cameras. These lenses offer a versatile range of focal lengths and provide sharp results, making them suitable for daily shots and various photography scenarios.
Practical Considerations for Everyday Use
When it comes to buying an L lens, it's often not for casual family shots. Instead, it's typically for professional work where image quality and versatility are paramount. These lenses can be cumbersome, especially when traveling, as they are heavy and can cause discomfort over time, leading to potential shoulder and wrist problems.
For those just starting their journey in professional photography, a prime lens might be the best choice. For instance, the 85mm f/1.2L is perfect for individual portraits and boudoir shots, while the 70-200mm f/2.8L IS is ideal for small families and couples. If you are shooting for professional work, it's important to consider your specific needs and the subject you'll be photographing.
The L Lens I Use Most
In 2003, I purchased three L-series lenses, and now the 24-70mm f/2.8L is the one I use the most. I employ this lens for a variety of shoots, including portraits, general travel, mountain bike races, and even petroglyphs. However, the choice of lens depends on the subject. For ruins and architecture, I prefer the 16-35mm f/2.8L, while for sports and specific travel scenarios, I opt for the 70-200mm f/2.8L IS.
While the 24-70mm f/2.8L is highly versatile, you can also consider the 24-105mm f/4L, which provides a wider range but sacrifices the relatively narrow depth of field at f/2.8.
Special Purpose Lenses
Special purpose lenses, such as the 400mm f/4 DO IS and the 500mm f/4L IS (often used with an EF 1.4X teleconverter for wildlife and sports), serve specific niches. For casual travelers or those preferring a compact solution, Leica 35mm and 50mm f/1.4 lenses on a Fuji X-E2 are excellent for depth of field isolation.
Quality Considerations
L-lenses are built to superior standards, with weather sealing, making them very desirable for photographers who frequently work in harsh conditions, such as rain, mud, or dust. If you prioritize usability in everyday or adventure travel, non-L lenses, such as those with a Canon 60D, 70D, or Rebel series, might be more suitable and cost-effective.