A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of going to my brother and sister-in-law’s Renewal of Vows Ceremony. After 35 years together, they recommitted to each other with family and friends around them. It was such a fun event.

Of course, I had to bring the camera. When I arrived, I scoped out the venue and discovered the event photographer. I don’t remember getting her name (shame on me) but we had a lovely conversation. We were both using NikonZ6ii’s and talked about our cameras and difficulty with lighting. While we talked a few times throughout the evening, I tried to stay out of her way.

Nevertheless, I took about 200 photos, and the one above was one of my “b-roll” photos. I don’t want to post any of the people photos here because those are for my sister-in-law and brother, but for some reason I liked this one. I love these electronic candles and I don’t think I’ve seen this many in one place. One of my friends introduced me to these years ago, and they’ve found their way around my house. Nothing like the picture above, but I wouldn’t say no to such a display.

I also took the opportunity to rent a fun lens from LensRentals.com (I am not paid or endorsed by them). I rented a Nikon S 24-70 f2.8. It was a fun lens and the extra light gathering abilities came in handy in a low-light environment. But I also learned a lesson. Just like in macro, when you use f2.8, the focal plane is a little on the thin side. Unfortunately, this meant that while my subject was in focus the person next to them might not be. Still had fun using some Nikon S glass for an evening.

Also, just an unsolicited, unendorsed review of LensRentals.com – I used to use BorrowLenses.com, but I believe LensRentals bought them. I was a little anxious about using a new company as I had good experiences with BorrowLenses. But everything was great with LensRentals. The lens showed up very well packed in a Pelican-like case, and inside a lens sleeve inside a layer of bubble wrap. It actually arrived a day early so bonus time! They sent communication when the lens shipped and when they received it (so I could breathe a sigh of relief it arrived back safely). Would recommend.

If you could rent any lens regardless of cost, what would you rent?

Nikon Z6ii, f2.8, 1/60sec, ISO2000, SOOC