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Three Reasons we ONLY use Prime Lenses

Today, we’re spilling the tea on why we’re all about those prime lenses. Yup, not a single zoom lens in sight! If you’ve ever wondered why we made this choice and why we’re sticking to it, keep reading. We’re diving into the top three reasons why prime lenses are our ride-or-die gear.

Today, we’re spilling the tea on why we’re all about those prime lenses. Yup, not a single zoom lens in sight! If you’ve ever wondered why we made this choice and why we’re sticking to it, keep reading. We’re diving into the top three reasons why prime lenses are our ride-or-die gear.

1. Size and Weight: Lightweight Champs

Let’s kick things off with a major reason: size and weight. Prime lenses are generally smaller and lighter compared to their zoom counterparts. For example, a 50mm prime lens is going to be way lighter than a 24-70mm zoom lens. This is because zoom lenses have more elements to allow for the varying focal lengths, which adds bulk.

For us, having lighter gear is a game-changer. We’re not the type to lug around a roller suitcase of equipment. Instead, we carry our backpacks all day, switching lenses frequently. If our gear were heavier, we’d be struggling by the end of a shoot. Plus, lighter lenses are easier to handle, especially if you have smaller hands like me. Prime lenses help keep our setup manageable and our backs thankful!

2. Image Quality and Aperture: Sharpness and Light

Next up is the unbeatable image quality and superior aperture capabilities of prime lenses. Prime lenses typically have fewer elements, leading to less diffraction and better image quality. When you compare an 85mm prime lens to an 85mm focal length on a zoom lens, the prime lens wins in sharpness every time.

And let’s talk about aperture. Prime lenses offer wider apertures, which means more light can hit the sensor. Our 85mm can go down to f/1.2, which is incredible for low-light conditions and achieving that dreamy bokeh. In contrast, most zoom lenses can’t get below f/2.8, which limits your flexibility in various lighting situations. For us, being able to shoot at f/1.8 or f/1.2 is essential for our style, especially in low light, allowing us to avoid cranking up the ISO and introducing noise into our shots.

3. Creativity Boost: Move Your Feet!

Lastly, using prime lenses pushes our creativity. With zoom lenses, you can get a variety of shots without moving an inch. While that’s convenient, it can also lead to laziness. Prime lenses, on the other hand, force you to move your feet to change your composition. This physical movement helps us see new angles and perspectives, sparking creative ideas we might miss if we stayed in one spot.

Another perk? Moving around allows for more interaction with our subjects, which can lead to more authentic and memorable photos. When you physically move closer for a tight shot or step back for a wide-angle, you’re engaging with the scene and your clients in a more dynamic way.

Bonus: Cost-Effective and Simplified Choices

Oh, and did we mention that prime lenses are generally more cost-effective? With fewer elements and a simpler build, they often come with a lower price tag compared to zoom lenses of similar quality. This means we can invest in several prime lenses without breaking the bank, giving us more flexibility and options during shoots.

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it! Size and weight, image quality and aperture, and a boost in creativity are why prime lenses are our go-to choice. We love how they fit our shooting style and enhance our photography. What about you? Do you prefer prime or zoom lenses? Let us know in the comments!

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