In the world of photography, Sean McCormack has a refreshing take. Forget the typical zoom lenses most professionals tote around. McCormack, a seasoned photographer, claims that just two lenses could cover almost all your photographic needs.
Throughout his career, McCormack has tried various camera systems, from medium format film to his current Fujifilm setup. Despite having a range that goes from a 7.5mm fisheye to a 600mm lens, he believes that two specific lenses can effectively tackle most common photography subjects.
Most people might expect the classic 24-70mm f/2.8 and 70-200mm f/2.8 combo. However, McCormack favors a more agile set: the 16-35mm and the 85mm lenses for full-frame cameras. For his Fujifilm X system, it’s the Fujinon XF 10-24mm f/4 and the XF 56mm f/1.2.
The reasoning is simple. Wide lenses like the 16-35mm are fantastic for landscapes, cityscapes, and broad nature shots. They give you the flexibility to adjust your view and highlight the foreground. On the other hand, the 85mm lens is optimal for portraits, providing a flattering focal length that keeps facial features in proportion. Even wider lenses can distort facial features, making the nose look larger and the face appear bloated.
McCormack’s Fujifilm setup includes the 10-24mm f/4 for scenic shots, despite his preference for an f/2.8 version for astrophotography. For portraits, the 56mm f/1.2 is his go-to lens, offering beautiful bokeh and shallow depth of field. He also mentions Canon’s RF 85mm f/2 as a great alternative, especially because it doubles as a macro lens.
The best part? This lens combination is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry in a small messenger or day bag. You won’t have to second-guess bringing your camera along for light travel, knowing these lenses can cover most scenarios.
So, if you’re looking to simplify your photography gear, McCormack’s lens choices are worth considering. These two lenses might just be all you need to capture stunning landscapes and portraits with ease.
