So I finally saved up and bought the Canon EOS R1 because my cousin who does photography said it was the absolute top of the line but now I'm sitting here with this expensive box and realize I don't even have a lens to put on it yet. I'm supposed to be taking the official photos for my sisters wedding in Las Vegas this coming October and I'm starting to panic because I have no clue what I'm doing. Everyone online keeps talking about prime lenses being the professional choice but I'm so confused... does prime just mean it doesnt zoom?
I was looking at the Canon website and my logic was that the most expensive ones must be the best ones for a wedding right? I saw an 85mm lens and a 50mm lens and they both look pretty much the same to me except for the price tag. I have about $2,500 left to spend before the trip and I really want that blurry background look everyone loves but I dont want to buy something that's meant for like sports or bugs by mistake. Is there one specific prime lens that is like the gold standard for the R1 that I should just go buy? I'm worried if I get the wrong one the pictures will look bad or I wont be able to fit everyone in the frame because I dont know how far back to stand. Sorry if this is a really basic question I just have no idea where to start with all these numbers and letters on the boxes...
> I saw an 85mm lens and a 50mm lens and they both look pretty much the same to me except for the price tag. Unfortunately, buying a flagship body like the R1 before understanding focal lengths is gonna lead to some major headaches during a high-stakes event like a wedding. Honestly, its a bit disappointing to see such a powerhouse camera potentially wasted because the glass doesnt match the sensor's capabilities. You're right that prime means it doesnt zoom. You have to move your feet to frame the shot. If you have $2,500 left, the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM is basically your only professional choice that fits the budget and offers that look you want. I have used the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM and while the bokeh is legendary, it usually costs around $2,700 and is way too tight for indoor Vegas chapels. I have had issues in the past where I literally couldnt back up far enough to get the whole wedding party in the frame with an 85mm. The 50mm is the gold standard for a reason. It is versatile enough for portraits and some wider shots, tho even then, you might struggle with large groups in small rooms. Shooting at f/1.2 is technically demanding, even with the R1's insane autofocus. If you miss the eye, the whole photo is ruined. Just dont expect the gear to do all the work for you... it takes a lot of practice to handle that shallow depth of field.
