In popular belief, the following adage often holds true: “The more lenses you have, the more of a pro you are!” But is that really the case? We’ve all encountered that photographer with a bag so packed it looks like they’re ready for an expedition… But before giving in to the temptation of accumulating gear, let’s ask ourselves: is it really necessary to have a collection of lenses to capture beautiful images?
Spoiler alert 1: Maybe not!
Spoiler alert 2: This article will feature photos unrelated to the topic to spare you from more lens photos.
1. The collection syndrome: need or want?
Let’s be honest, photo gear is like candy for a child: the more we have, the better… or so we think. A 50mm for portraits, a 16-35mm for landscapes, a 70-200mm for action shots, and why not a macro lens for details? Each lens has its purpose, that’s true. But by trying to cover all situations, we end up weighing down our bag (and our wallet) and drifting away from the idea of sustainable photography (Article: Sustainable Development and Photography). The result: we spend more time deciding which lens to use than actually pressing the shutter. Is that really what photography is about?
2. Fewer lenses, More creativity?
Paradoxically, limiting yourself can boost your creativity. Imagine: you go for a walk with just a 35mm. You have to adapt to the lens, not the other way around. You search for the right angle, move closer, step back… you rediscover the purest form of photography. Far from endless technical choices, you focus on the essentials: composition, light, emotion. Some renowned photographers swear by just one or two lenses, and their photos speak for themselves.
A more contemporary example is Steve McCurry, famous for his photo “Afghan Girl” (if you don’t know it, you can find it here). Although he used several lenses throughout his career, he often returns to a 50mm for his documentary work. By limiting themselves to one or two lenses, these photographers developed a distinct vision and style, proving that what truly matters is the photographer’s eye, not the amount of equipment. The real question is whether he achieved his mastery of his favorite lenses through exploration of other focal lengths…
3. The Minimalist Trend: Just a Fad or a Real Advantage?
Minimalism is in vogue, and not just in our homes. More and more photographers are opting for lighter and reduced gear. Why? Because it simply makes life easier! Less gear means fewer distractions, less risk of damage, and more spontaneity. A lighter bag also means more mobility: you can react faster and seize the moment without worrying about choosing “the right lens.” And finding a bag for minimal gear is much easier than finding an actual toolbox.
4. Multiple Lenses: Security or Illusion?
You might think that having a lens for every type of photo guarantees you won’t miss anything. But is that really the case? Having too many options can create the opposite effect: indecision. Faced with a scene, you hesitate: should you use the zoom to capture details or the wide-angle to encompass the entire scene? Meanwhile, the moment is gone. In the end, does having too many choices make us lose sight of what’s important? Sometimes, a good versatile lens is enough to capture the magic.
And when you start getting used to working with a single lens, your composition becomes smoother and more intuitive with that focal length you know so well.
5. What about quality?
You might say: “Okay, just one lens, but I need the best quality possible!” This is where the debate gets interesting. Sure, specialized lenses (an 85mm f/1.4 for portraits, for example) offer exceptional performance, but technological advancements have also allowed versatile lenses to improve in quality. Modern zoom lenses, for example, can rival some prime lenses, offering valuable flexibility. Instead of spreading yourself thin, investing in one or two high-quality lenses could be a better strategy.
6. Focusing on Your Style: Could That Be the Key?
Instead of trying to be ready for every situation, why not focus on what you truly love photographing? If portraits are your thing, why get distracted with lenses for wildlife or sports? Identifying your photographic style and investing in the right gear not only saves money, but also helps you master your equipment and refine your vision.
Conclusion: Finding the balance
So, do you really need to collect lenses to be a good photographer? Not necessarily. The key is finding a balance that suits your practice and style. Having an arsenal of lenses can be useful, but it’s not an end in itself. Sometimes, limiting yourself to the essentials allows you to free your creativity and focus on what really matters: capturing the moment. So before splurging on yet another lens, ask yourself this question: do I really need it? The answer might surprise you!
A Personal Note:
I’ve only upgraded my photo gear once. With my first setup, I had three different lenses. But soon, I realized I was taking 80% of my photos with my zoom lens because it offered more versatility. When I switched to my new gear (Fujifilm X-T3), I stuck with the kit zoom lens. Even though I’ve thought about getting another focal length to complement my experience, I always feel like it would only be useful 10 or 20% of the time.