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Technical question to start off with: what type of lense would you use for a catwalk / runway show?

Well it really depends on how far away you are from the runway. If you want to capture the whole thing, ie the model walking and the crowd, you'd use a wide lens. Probably 10-22mm. But just for models, you're looking at the 24-70 range. Anything larger would mean just headshots and not much of the clothing.

The standard runway lenses are 28-80 (ish depending on brand) and 80-200 (ditto), f2.8 is a must because most shows will give you 125/sec at f4 on iso400 for a good show and you still take a big risk of blurring at that point. I normally just use my 80-200/f2.8 Nikkor and set to iso 400 for most big shows. Godzitman is right though with smaller shows you need a wider lense. I find it's best not to go below 50mm if I can thougfh because it distorts the model and cloths.

m2c

I really canât add to Daveâs & Godzhitmanâs comments theyâve pretty much nailed it. Their choices of lenses are spot on, and yes Iâd be careful about going too wide that kind of distortion can be ugly on the cat. As has already been said Iâd generally go 400 because the lighting can be difficult. Itâs handy having each lens on a separate body.

Pete

During RAFW this year I definitely used my 28-80 a lot more than I have in the past, mostly for shows that were very dark with a light spot twards the end of the runway for photographers, the 80-200 was just about useless.

agree with Dave, my 24-70 + 70-200 rocked most occasions, although I've noticed more shooters using the fixed 300 lenses

depends on the location. If it's a big budget show, then expect telelenses however if it's a club show usually the range from 24-70 does it for me. Lately I've been using 24-70 but I'm itching for Spring fashion week to give the tele a good workout :)

Just following up on this, what everyone's thoughts on the Sigma lenses made for Canon DSLR? I'm leaning towards Sigma simply to fit within my budget, particularly the 28-70mm f/2.8 range Sigma offer.

I only have a very small amount of experience with them, but I've known a couple people who have invested in them and not found them to be worthwhile. That said, I've heard some favourable reviews as well, though not from any personal contacts. They definitely won't be up to the standard of the Canon-made lenses, but on a budget, they might get the job done for you.

If I recall correctly, you're shooting with a Rebel XTi, right Daniel? If you're thinking about a lens for catwalk/ documentary work, you might want to consider the EF 28-200mm f/3.5-5.6 USM, or the EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM, which features image stabilization - great option if you're shooting indoors at a longer focal length.

I am indeed, thanks Cole I'll take a look at the suggested two as well :)