I can't imagine going anywhere without this lens. It is my all time favorite! The 70-200 will give you that stunning blurred background that you have always been looking for. It also creates the most beautiful soft skin tones. Although it is a large lens, once you get the hang of it I'm sure you will fall in love just like the rest of us. The compression this lens has will blow you away!
The go to!
50 mm
f1.2
The 50 mm is the most universally used lens in the wedding industry. Yes! I said it. If you are trying to decide what lens to start your collection with then this is THE one. I highly recommend the 1.2 for those gorgeous tabletop shots and low lighting scenarios. Plus it's one of the best portrait lenses out there!
For the open spaces
35 mm
f1.4
I love using this lens for when I want to incorporate more of the landscape behind a subject. It has less compression but still creates a beautiful look. It is also good for some smaller spaces and is wider than the 50mm.
For the tiny spaces
24-70
F2.8
This is a great lens for small spaces. Also, it will not add the distortion that most wide-angle lenses do. I would say this is a must have in your camera bag for every photographer.
The Macro
f2.8
For all of those beautiful detail shots! This lens never ceases to amaze me. Ever wonder how photographers get those insanely close up ring shots? Well my friends this is the lens for that!
The 300 mm
f.2.8
I am a firm believer in not getting run over by livestock at rodeos. This lens helps with that! Plus, talk about some sweet compression! If I could use this lens without a monopod, I would use it to take portraits. It creates stunning images.
On Camera Flash
If you aren't comfortable with using flash then please get comfy! I do a ton of ranch weddings that have little to no light when the sun goes down. Using a flash literally saves me. I would highly recommend having one in your bag. Shoot on TTL it will do some of the thinking for you until you can use manual. Here's a link to some great flash education.
The Mag Mod diffuser is a game changer! This takes some of the guesswork out of using a flash. It will diffuse that harsh light and make it a little softer on your subject's face. The Mag Mod is a great investment.
SD & CF
Cards
You can never be too prepared. I label my camera cards with numbers. This is extremely helpful while shooting equestrian events. I also label them with the date of when I bought them. Typically, I buy new cards every couple of years.
The Styling Mat
This is hands down one of my favorite things in my bag. I use this styling mat every wedding I shoot. It has two different sides and is machine washable.
Styling Blocks
for Flatlays
Ever wonder how photographers create such amazing flat lays? This is how! These styling blocks add depth to your flat lay. They are also super cheap on Amazon.
Ribbon
Adding ribbon can spice up an flat lay. I love the ribbon from @Emmalinhco. This small little business is definitely one you should support and check out right now. Tell her I sent you!
Dress Hanger
I always throw in a nice hanger just in case I have a bride that has a plastic hanger. It just makes the details in the picture so much more pleasing to look at.