Like a lot of you, my lens history reads like a drunk walking around at night. In retrospect I could have had quite a bit more discipline in how, when and why I purchased my lenses. No regrets, I’ve loved them all, but now with more experience under my belt and a good host of clients, I think I better understand the ultimate use of glass and what order probably best suits most photographers, and why. Allow me to take a stab at ordering up your lenses for you so that you maximize your kit in the most efficient way.
I think it goes without saying that this is simply my opinion, based on my own experience. Glass is a highly-personal choice and can be deeply swayed by who is asking what of you, and is not necessarily something that is meant to be purchased scientifically. As was my own case, following my instincts and my heart toward specific lenses was actually part of my process for falling in love with the medium. At the same time, I wish I’d had this list so, at the very least, I could have broken with it more purposefully. Let this simply be “a rational list” of lenses in the order that most people would likely find themselves in need of when taking up photography. Then do whatever the hell you please.
I did 200 photoshoots in 2019. The accompanying images are pulled randomly from over the year to give you examples…
