Why the 24-70mm Isn’t as Boring as You Think

The 24-70mm lens has often been labeled as the “boring” option, sandwiched between the extremes of wide angle and telephoto lenses. But this lens, rather than being uninspiring, could be just what you need.

Coming to you from Martin Castein, this insightful video makes a strong case for the 24-70mm lens as a versatile addition, not a replacement, for prime lenses. Castein discusses how the lens is often dismissed due to its “in-between” focal length—neither wide enough to exaggerate space nor long enough to isolate subjects fully. However, he suggests that the “boring” results people get from this lens often come from failing to use it with purpose. The tendency to zoom in and out without being mindful of distance to the subject can lead to flat, uninspired shots. By setting a default focal length (such as 35mm) on your 24-70mm, you gain a reference point, similar to shooting with a prime lens. This practice helps develop consistency, as you can zoom in and out while still keeping the familiar frame of reference.

Castein emphasizes that the way we use distance and focal length with a 24-70mm impacts the feel of the image. Unlike primes, which require you to physically move closer or further to adjust framing, a zoom lens lets you shift focal length with a turn of the dial. This ease can lead to a disconnect between subject and photographer, as distance isn’t consciously managed. Establishing a default focal length for your 24-70, like 35mm or 50mm, anchors you to a familiar framing style. By returning to this focal length as a baseline, you instinctively control subject distance and produce images with more intention.

The video also addresses the 24-70’s strengths in dynamic settings, where flexibility is essential. Wedding and event photography benefit particularly from this versatility, as the focal length range allows for intimate, close-up shots as well as broader group scenes. The lens’s f/2.8 aperture is generally sufficient for low-light environments, making it a reliable choice even without the ultra-wide apertures of primes. With modern camera ISO capabilities, many situations where primes were once essential for their light-gathering power can now be handled by a 24-70mm without sacrificing quality.

For those still skeptical, Castein notes that a 24-70mm lens can excel in urban or travel photography, offering flexibility for capturing everything from portraits to landscapes. While prime lenses may offer a unique depth of field due to their wide apertures, the 24-70mm’s adaptability can outshine primes in settings where stepping closer isn’t feasible. Landscapes benefit as well, as “zooming with your feet” isn’t always an option when distances are too great or terrain is challenging. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Castein.