As a wedding photographer, finding the right lens for different situations can make or break the shots you’re after. While I’ve previously shared what I typically carry in my camera bag on a wedding day (check out this blog post), today, I want to dive deeper into my all-time favorite lens: the 85mm 1.4. This lens has completely transformed the way I capture weddings, giving me the depth, sharpness, and flexibility I didn’t know I was missing.

In this post, I’ll share why the 85mm 1.4 lens has become my go-to for weddings, how it compares to other lenses, and why you might want to consider adding it to your toolkit, even if just for a rental on your next shoot. Plus, I’ll highlight some of my favorite images taken with this lens and offer practical tips on using it throughout a wedding day.

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Why the 85mm 1.4 is a Game-Changer for Wedding Photography

When I first purchased the 85mm 1.4, I wasn’t sure how it would fit into my wedding photography. I initially bought it to photograph high school seniors, where it truly excelled in capturing flattering portraits. But as I became more familiar with it, I noticed something I hadn’t experienced with my 35mm or 50mm lenses—the depth and creamy bokeh were beyond anything I had previously achieved.

Switching to the 85mm during weddings, especially during golden hour and sunset portraits, was a total game-changer. Suddenly, I had:

• Greater depth of field for stunning background blur.
• Exceptional sharpness, even in low-light conditions.
• A more intimate feel when capturing candid moments from a distance.

What I didn’t realize at first was how much adjusting I’d need to do in terms of shooting distance. With a lens like the 85mm, you have to stand farther back from your subjects than with a 35mm or 50mm. This required some getting used to, especially during fast-paced moments like receptions or ceremonies. However, once I got comfortable, the results were nothing short of breathtaking.

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The Power of Bokeh: How the 85mm Delivers on Wedding Days

One of the reasons I fell in love with the 85mm 1.4 is the bokeh. Bokeh refers to the aesthetic quality of the out-of-focus areas in a photograph, and this lens excels in creating a dreamy, blurred background that makes your subject pop.

Whether I’m photographing brides and grooms during sunset or detail shots of reception tables, the creamy bokeh from this lens elevates the visual impact of my images. The soft focus of the background allows the couple or details to be the clear focal point, creating images that feel timeless and elegant.

I now use this lens for sunset portraits 100% of the time. There’s just no comparison to the quality and depth it offers when you want that magical, romantic look in your photos.

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Why I Chose Sigma Over Nikon: Lens Comparisons and Budget-Friendly Options

When it comes to lens brands, I’ve tried both the Nikon and Sigma versions of the 85mm. While the Nikon is fantastic, I found that the Sigma 85mm 1.4 is incredibly comparable in quality—especially at a lower price point.

If you’re on a budget or just getting started in wedding photography, investing in the Sigma 85mm might be a smarter choice without sacrificing too much in terms of quality. The sharpness, focus speed, and bokeh of the Sigma version are nearly identical to Nikon’s.

That being said, if you’re a Nikon purist or simply want to invest in the very best, stepping up to the Nikon or Sigma Art lenses may be worth considering in the future. For now, I’m more than happy with the results from my Sigma lens, and it continues to exceed my expectations in every situation.

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Versatility: Using the 85mm for All Parts of a Wedding Day

One of the best things about the 85mm lens is its versatility. Initially, I thought I’d use it mostly for portraits, but I soon realized it could handle so much more. Here’s how I use it throughout a typical wedding day:

1. Getting Ready Photos

The 85mm is perfect for capturing intimate moments as the bride and groom get ready. The longer focal length allows me to step back and give them some space while still capturing the emotions and details of the day. Whether it’s the bride’s hair being done or the groom putting on his cufflinks, the tight framing and background blur make these moments shine.

2. Ceremony Shots

During ceremonies, the 85mm lets me stay back without being intrusive. It’s ideal for capturing emotional expressions without stepping into the aisle or blocking anyone’s view. The sharpness is great for low-light church settings, and the bokeh helps soften distracting backgrounds.

3. Portraits and Group Shots

While I wouldn’t use this for every group shot (it’s a bit too tight for that), the 85mm really excels during couple portraits. It’s especially effective in outdoor settings where you want to separate your subject from the environment, creating that beautiful depth and focus.

4. Reception Details

You might not think of using an 85mm for detail shots, but it’s actually fantastic for capturing things like table settings, décor, and close-ups of the cake. The focal length and aperture allow me to create detail shots that feel almost cinematic, with the subject in sharp focus and the rest of the frame gently blurred.

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My Favorite Moments Captured with the 85mm

Some of my most cherished wedding photos have been taken with the 85mm lens across various seasons. Whether it’s the warm glow of a spring wedding or the crisp, cool backdrop of a winter ceremony, the 85mm handles it all. Here are a few examples of real weddings where the lens shone:

• Quinn and Nick’s Rose Gold Winter Wedding: The soft bokeh from the 85mm highlighted the rich rose gold hues of this winter wonderland celebration. The sunset portraits from this wedding are some of my all-time favorites, thanks to the creamy background blur this lens provided.
• Kristina and Cole’s June Wedding at Camp UMM: This outdoor summer wedding was the perfect opportunity to use the 85mm during golden hour. The depth of field made the couple stand out against the lush green landscape, capturing the joy and romance of their big day.

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Tips for Using the 85mm on a Wedding Day

If you’re new to the 85mm or considering renting one for your next wedding, here are a few tips to make the most of this incredible lens:

1. Adjust Your Distance

Since this is a longer focal length than you might be used to with a 35mm or 50mm, you’ll need to step back to get the framing you want. This can be tricky at first, especially in tight spaces, but with practice, it becomes second nature.

2. Use it for Details

Don’t overlook the 85mm for shooting reception details or other small elements of the day. Its sharpness and bokeh will bring out textures and colors in a way that wider lenses can’t.

3. Perfect for Golden Hour

If you’re not already using an 85mm for sunset photos, I highly recommend it. The way it captures soft light and blends backgrounds is unmatched.

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Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try the 85mm 1.4 for Your Next Wedding

The 85mm 1.4 has become an essential part of my wedding day kit. From portraits to candid moments, detail shots, and more, it offers a unique depth and beauty that other lenses struggle to match. If you’re a wedding photographer looking to add something special to your gear lineup, I can’t recommend this lens enough.

Whether you’re shooting in the warm glow of spring, the bold colors of fall, or the snowy elegance of winter, the 85mm 1.4 brings out the best in every shot. If you’re on the fence, try renting it for your next event—I promise you’ll be hooked!

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FAQs

1. Is the 85mm 1.4 worth the investment for wedding photographers?

Yes! The 85mm 1.4 offers incredible sharpness, bokeh, and versatility, making it a fantastic investment for wedding photographers looking to enhance their portraits and detail shots.

2. Should I rent the 85mm lens before buying?

If you’re unsure, renting is a great way to test it out. You’ll be able to see how it fits into your workflow before making a big purchase.

3. What’s the difference between the Sigma and Nikon 85mm lenses?

The Sigma 85mm is a more budget-friendly option with comparable quality to Nikon’s version. Both deliver excellent results, but the Sigma is ideal for those looking for high performance at a lower price point.

4. Can the 85mm 1.4 be used for group shots?

While the 85mm can be used for smaller group shots, it’s not ideal for large groups due to its tighter framing. It’s best suited for portraits and detail shots.

5. What camera body pairs best with the 85mm 1.4?

The 85mm 1.4 works well with both full-frame and crop sensor cameras. However, on a crop sensor, the effective focal length will be closer to 127mm, which is something to keep in mind when framing your shots

I have rented the Nikon version, but I found the Sigma to be very comparable, especially at the price point!  Maybe one day I will step up to the Nikon or Sigma Art, but for now, the Sigma is what I’ll be rocking! 

Some of my favorite images were shot with the 85mm in the spring, fall, and winter! As you can see, I use this lens for all parts of the wedding day! What is your go-to lens on a wedding day? Let me know in the comments!

Want to see more from these weddings? Check out Quinn and Nick’s rose gold winter wedding here. Kristina and Cole’s June wedding at Camp UMM here.

Just starting out with photography? Check out this post for the camera and lens I recommend to beginners.