Which wide zoom lens would be best for my needs?

I specialize in family, children, senior and engagement photos. I'm currently shooting with a nikon d3000. I already have a 50 mm f1.8 lens, but was looking into getting a wide zoom lens to make my family sessions more manageable. I'm just not what would be best. I'm a natural light photographer… If that makes a difference.

"I'm a natural light photographer"

I love that phrase. Translation - I know nothing about photography and consequently only shoot outdoors on P (for professional).

If you don't even know what lens would suit your needs then you do not "specialise" in anything and you most certainly are not a "photographer". You are a person with a camera. Big difference.

The problem with using anything wider than 50mm is that you are going to get distortion - especially at the edges.

However, you asked! I'd recommend the 24-70mm f2.8 or if you want wider than that, the 17-55mm f2.8.

Those should give you the speed you need in poorer light, however, the dof will be shallow wide open, so you'll not likely get everyone in focus if they're not all at the focal plane.

I suggest you learn to light properly - that way, when natural light is not enough/wrong colour temp/wrong direction, etc. You at least have some control of the situation.

I'd go with a 24-70 or a 24-105… Great wide angle-telephoto combo that could save you a lot of money and give you a ton of possibiliies! If money is no object, I'd keep your 50, get a 35mm fixed focal length, maybe a 24mm or 28mm fixed for a wide lens, and then a very nice 85mm f/1.2L. Now THAT'S a nice lens!

No doubt you already have the 18-55, but the 17-55 f/2.8 is a far superior lens. It will work very nicely for groups up to dozens at 17mm. I like to leave a bit of "crop zone" around the edges of the frame so you don't have a terrible amount of distortion for the folks at the edge of the picture.