Best lens for Wedding photography. Nikon D5000?
I have a nikon d5000. I know it's not the best camera, but what's a good lens to shoot in low light (Weddings)? Right now I just have the lens that came with the camera and it's kinda grainy. I just need something that works well in low light with minimal noise if ISO is cranked up. I have a speedlight but the photos still look grainy. I want Sharp, not grainy photos.
The lens will not reduce "grain" at high ISO. That is a function of the camera sensor and electronics. Only way to improve that is an upgraded body but even then don't expect miracles above ISO800
You need fast lenses so you can shoot at lower ISO.
You should be looking at a wide aperture prime such as the 50mm f/1.4 plus a couple of f/2.8 zooms - one around 15-35mm and one around 70-200mm
My advice? Don't do the wedding photos!
It's a skilled job requiring far more equipment than you seem to have. The Bride and Groom might tell you they know you are amateur and don't mind; but if the photos are not "professional" standard, they will still be upset.
It's the one you already have, the 18-55mm, even if you have the cash to buy a more expensive one.
At around 18mm, you can shoot large group shots of family and friends. You can shoot the entire ceremony at around 35mm or so. For portraits, especially close-ups, set to around 55mm.
If you really itch on spending your cash, buy a large flash.
What's your budget? Lenses I use for wedding photography are (in order of cost);
- 50mm f1.8
- 85mm f1.8
- 24-70mm f2.8
- 70-200mm f2.8
Using your kit lens, with the speedlight, should be good for most of the shots. I suggest you get the Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G for truly sharp, low light performance. I love mine just for that reason.
http://www.nikonusa.com/...F1.8G.html
Sigma 17-50mm f2.8 HSM OS DC combines ability to open up to f2.8 with optical stabilization.
Your lens can't be "grainy" as this is a product of the noise generated by your camera and not the lens. However, a lens that provides a larger aperture will allow you to shoot at lower ISOs which reduces the noise or grain as you referred to it.
You should try buy only lenses designed for APS-C cameras as they'll provide a higher level of sharpness than using FX lenses. Sigma's 18-35 f/1.8 is a stellar performer.