Luke Hayden

Wedding | Last Updated: February 16, 2021

Hey, I’m Luke. I’ve been shooting weddings for the past seven years and plan to still be shooting weddings for the next 20.

I discovered the work of Sean Flanigan in 2006, and his work inspired me to purchase a camera that same year. I’m so glad I did because I now work a job that I’m truly happy in.

My first camera setup was a Canon 30D and the entry level 50mm lens. It wasn’t for another 2 years until I purchased my second lens, a 24mm Sigma.

I still use Canon to this day because I just know how to use it without even looking. The fact that I’ve stayed faithful to Canon so long is because I already have everything I need in regards to equipment. I don’t see the point in switching systems. It does everything I need.

My main workhorse is my trusty Canon 35mm f/1.4. This lens stays on one of my bodies all day. Another favourite lens of mine is the Canon 50mm f/1.2. You can use it in so many situations but where it really rewards you is when you open the aperture up wide. It really melts the background in a beautiful way.

Cameras

2x Canon 5D Mark IV These cameras are built like tanks, so I know they will stand the test of time. I truly love the colours that the camera gives. The files are so nice to work with.

Lenses

Canon 24mm f/1.4 This lens gives me a good wide option. I mainly use it during the evening on the dance floor.

Canon 35mm f/1.4 My main workhorse. Great for any situation during a wedding day.

Canon 50mm f/1.2 A lovely documentary lens. Also perfect for portraits and group shots.

Canon 135mm f/2 When I need some extra reach, this lens comes out of the bag. I don’t use this lens much, but it’s essential for me for some situations when I can’t quite reach my subject.

Lights/Triggers

YN560 IV I use this because it’s light and easy to use. I love that it’s a very reasonable price as flashes can break pretty easily.

Bags/Straps

Think Tank Airport Essentials This bag is just perfect. It fits all my cameras and lenses, plus a laptop if I ever need to travel to another country. I couldn’t do without it.

Spider Holster Systems I used to get back pains from shooting weddings. This was until I started to use the Spider Holster. I’ve not had a bad back since.

Hardware & Software

Macbook Pro 15”
Lightroom
Photoshop

Misc.

I always have my Chilly’s water bottle with me at every wedding. Another essential is a bag of nuts to keep me going.

My gear is what I need to get the job done. I haven’t bought any new lenses in over 3 years. Try not to get sucked into the hype and waste your money on the latest and greatest tool out there because it won’t make you a better photographer.

www.lukehayden.co.uk | @lukehayden