ditto to all the above

I have straight shaftnot bent
 
best for use for a higher cadence faster paddling - I think if you are just lily dipping, paddling at very easy rate a bigger bladed paddle is as good

aside from the weight, just switching to a smaller bladed paddle also works if you want to use a higher cadence - but if you need more power in a headwind or for going upriver, then a bigger bladed paddle is still better - I'll still use heavier paddle for the exercise and better boat control at times - but for long distance long days of paddling, lighter is better