35mm vs 24-70mm: The ultimate event photography lens showdown

When it comes to event photography, having the right gear can make all the difference. Two lenses often considered must-haves by professionals are the 35mm prime and the 24-70mm zoom. Both are incredibly versatile, but they offer different strengths depending on the type of event and your shooting style. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you understand why they are such essential tools—and why your event deserves a photographer who knows how to use them.

Pros:

• Lightweight and Discreet: Perfect for moving quickly through a crowd or capturing candid moments without drawing attention.

• Wider Aperture (Usually f/1.4 or f/1.8): Great for low-light situations, giving you creamy background blur and crisp subject isolation.

• Natural Perspective: The 35mm focal length closely mimics the way we see with our eyes, making it ideal for storytelling and environmental portraits.

Cons:

• Fixed Focal Length: You have to move your feet to frame the shot. Not ideal when space is limited or things are happening quickly.

• Less Versatile: You may miss out on tighter shots or close-ups unless you switch lenses or crop later.

Pros:

• Incredible Versatility: From wide group shots at 24mm to tight portraits at 70mm, this lens covers a huge range of situations without needing to change gear.

• Fast Autofocus and Sharpness: Most 24-70mm lenses, especially f/2.8 versions, deliver professional-quality images in almost any setting.

• Time Saver: Ideal for fast-paced events where every second counts. You can quickly adapt to changing scenes and compositions.

Cons:

• Heavier and Bulkier: A 24-70mm is noticeably larger and heavier than a 35mm prime, which can be tiring over long events.

• Smaller Maximum Aperture: Usually f/2.8, which may not give you as much low-light performance or depth of field as a fast prime.

Honestly? Both. The 35mm is amazing for getting intimate, storytelling shots with beautiful bokeh, while the 24-70mm is a workhorse that can handle almost anything an event throws at you. That’s why I always make sure to have both in my kit—to ensure no moment is missed, and every angle is covered.

Whether it’s a corporate conference, a private celebration, or a cultural festival, I bring professional equipment, experience, and an eye for moments that matter. If you’re looking for someone who can handle fast-paced environments with the right tools—and capture your event in its best light—get in touch today. Let’s make your event unforgettable.