Lens selection
Apr 23, 2018 07:26:53 #
I need help finding the right lens to photograph large groups (30-40 people). I own 70-200 & 85mm. 
Apr 23, 2018 07:42:10 #
SandraLovesPhotography wrote:
I need help finding the right lens to photograph large groups (30-40 people). I own 70-200 & 85mm.
You will need something a lot wider than 70mm. Which one you choose will depend largely on the sensor size of your camera. What camera are you using?
Apr 23, 2018 07:42:17 #
50MM is a fun lens. It sort of sees the world as our eyes do. I like it a lot. Versatile and with the lenses you have this one would bring you lots of enjoyment and sharp pictures.
Apr 23, 2018 07:51:06 #
Apr 23, 2018 07:56:42 #
RWR
Loc: La Mesa, CA
SandraLovesPhotography wrote:
I need help finding the right lens to photograph large groups (30-40 people). I own 70-200 & 85mm.
What format is your camera, and how much space do you have to work with?
Apr 23, 2018 07:59:44 #
SandraLovesPhotography wrote:
I need help finding the right lens to photograph large groups (30-40 people). I own 70-200 & 85mm.
The longer the focal length, the farther away you have to stand. If you go to a very wide focal length, you risk distortion. Better to just forget about it and hire a pro.
Apr 23, 2018 08:20:50 #
SandraLovesPhotography wrote:
I need help finding the right lens to photograph large groups (30-40 people). I own 70-200 & 85mm.
I have no problem using a 70-200 on large groups outside. From a distance anything over f4 can work (though I am likely to be closer to f8) Did a running group this weekend with over 60 people. My settings for the final shot were f/4.5 1/160 70MM ISO 100. Around 8:10 am sun was coming through trees from the right of the group. There was a nice slope to group them on.
This is on an APS-C body.
In a group that size you will always have a couple shy people who hide. Though I always remind them, "If you can't see the camera, the camera can't see you."
If you are inside then the room size and lighting are going to be your limiting factors. Do you know anything about the setting?
Apr 23, 2018 08:24:56 #
LWW
Loc: Banana Republic of America
SandraLovesPhotography wrote:
I need help finding the right lens to photograph large groups (30-40 people). I own 70-200 & 85mm.
It all depends on the working distance.
If you have an FX body then about 28-35, and thats at a reasonable distance.
On a DX body somewhere in the 18-20 range.
Much wider and distortion will become an issue.
That being said if you can get them into three rows along the horizon line a 50 on a FX can work well, or a 35 on a DX.
Make sure you have the horizon line in balance also.
Apr 23, 2018 09:58:17 #
wingclui44
Loc: CT USA
SandraLovesPhotography wrote:
I need help finding the right lens to photograph large groups (30-40 people). I own 70-200 & 85mm.
35mm.
Apr 23, 2018 10:14:28 #
Apr 23, 2018 10:29:55 #
If you don't want to spend much money look for a 28-80 mm f/3.3-5.6 on eBay. This was a kit lens for the Auto film Nikons. It is plastic and looks cheap but has great optics. I bought one for $20. - Dave
Apr 23, 2018 11:58:42 #
SandraLovesPhotography wrote:
I am using the Nikon D850.
Are you going to be indoors or outdoors? How much room will you have? Do you have a wireless shutter release and a tripod?
Apr 23, 2018 12:10:45 #
yes - I have a tripod...we're going to be outdoors...and can't afford a flash at the moment so I was going to use a reflector.
Apr 23, 2018 12:11:30 #
Apr 23, 2018 12:22:18 #
SandraLovesPhotography wrote:
yes - I have a tripod...we're going to be outdoors...and can't afford a flash at the moment so I was going to use a reflector.
What kind of reflector are you using that covers 40 people?
Also what time of day? I do not think you are going to need a flash unless it is at night. You will just need to select the right shutter speed and aperture.
Since you are outdoors you should be fine with your current equipment.
If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.