If you're looking for the perfect lenses to take your DSLR filmmaking to the next level, you've come to the right place. Finding the right lens for your camera is crucial in achieving the look you want in your films. Before making any purchases, it's important to consider factors such as focal length, aperture, and image stabilization.
Focal length is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing lenses for DSLR filmmaking. Do you need a wide-angle lens for wide shots or a telephoto lens for close-ups? Aperture is also critical, as it determines the amount of light that enters the camera. A wider aperture allows for lower light conditions, while a smaller one can produce sharper images. Lastly, image stabilization is essential for capturing steady footage while on the move.
To help you find the right lenses for your DSLR filmmaking needs, ask yourself some important questions. Are you looking for a lens that can produce a shallow depth of field? Do you need a lens that can shoot in low light conditions? Are you planning to shoot primarily indoors or outdoors? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your choices and ultimately find the perfect lenses for your DSLR filmmaking needs.
In conclusion, finding the perfect lenses for your DSLR filmmaking needs is possible with the right knowledge and considerations. Remember to focus on factors such as focal length, aperture, and image stabilization, and ask yourself important questions to narrow down your choices. With the right lenses, your films can have a professional and polished look that is sure to impress.
10 Best Lenses For Dslr Filmmaking
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Ideal for portrait photography and creating a shallow depth of field effect.
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Ideal for DSLR and camcorder movie making with accessories including matte box, follow focus, c-shaped bracket, and handgrip.
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This product is ideal for wide-angle photography and low light situations.
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This product is ideal for adding precision focus control to DSLRs and mirrorless cameras with different diameter lenses.
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It is ideal for capturing a wider field of view and close-up details with Canon EOS DSLR cameras.
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This product is ideal for capturing high-quality images with a telephoto lens on compatible Canon EOS EF mount cameras.
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This lens is ideal for Canon DSLR cameras and offers a wide range of zoom capabilities.
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It is ideal for providing a secure and padded grip for DSLR and mirrorless cameras, compatible with camera neck straps.
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This lens is ideal for capturing close-up shots with exceptional clarity and detail.
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The product is ideal for macro photography with Canon EOS EF & EF-S mount cameras.
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1. Canon Ef 50mm F/1.8 Stm Lens
The 50 millimeter focal length and maximum aperture of f/1.8 makes this lens an excellent choice for capturing stunning portraits, fast-action shots, and low-light photography. With a horizontal, vertical, and diagonal angle of view of 40º, 27º, and 46º, respectively, this lens allows for versatile shooting options. It has a minimum focusing distance of 1.15 feet (0.35 meters) and a maximum magnification of 0.21x, making it possible to capture stunning close-up shots with great detail.
Equipped with a stepping motor (STM), this lens delivers near-silent, continuous move Servo AF for movies and smooth AF for stills. The 80 millimetre effective focal length on APS C cameras and 50 millimetre on full frame cameras make it versatile and suitable for a wide range of shooting styles. The lens construction features 6 elements in 5 groups, which ensures high-quality images with excellent contrast and sharpness.
Overall, this lens is an excellent choice for photographers who are looking for a high-quality, versatile lens that delivers outstanding performance in a wide range of shooting scenarios.
- 50 millimeter focal length and maximum aperture of f/1.8 is perfect for portraits, action, and nighttime photography
- Stepping motor (STM) delivers near-silent, continuous move Servo AF for movies and smooth AF for stills
- 80 millimetre effective focal length on APS C cameras, 50 millimetre on full frame cameras
- Lens construction features 6 elements in 5 groups, ensuring high-quality images with excellent contrast and sharpness
2. Neewer Film-Making System: The Ultimate Dslr Rig
The Neewer Shoulder Rig is an excellent choice for professional filmmakers who want to turn their DSLR cameras or camcorders into a pro filmmaking system. It features 15mm rods that connect all the components and 60mm-gauge rod rails, allowing you to adjust their positions at will.
This shoulder rig comes with a universal baseplate that is compatible with DSLR cameras, video cameras, and camcorders via its 1/4” and 3/8” mounting threads. It also has a quick release plate that enables instant camera mounting and a bubble level that gives you precise horizontal composition.
The matte box of this shoulder rig can fit lenses 43–77mm in diameter and has three flags that block excessive light and avoid lens glare for clear, sharp footage. The follow focus allows you to adjust the focus smoothly and accurately with one hand.
The Neewer Shoulder Rig is equipped with anti-slip dual handgrips that let you hold the rig with a firm grip while filming moving subjects. The soft rubber shoulder pad helps reduce muscle strains after a lengthy filming day, making it comfortable for extended use.
Furthermore, this shoulder rig has multiple 1/4” and 3/8” female threads that enable you to equip the rig with various devices, including microphones, monitors, flash strobes, LED video lights, and more to facilitate your filmmaking setup.
- Adjustable 15mm rods and 60mm-gauge rod rails
- Universal baseplate with 1/4” and 3/8” mounting threads
- Quick release plate for instant camera mounting
- Matte box with three flags to block excessive light and avoid lens glare
- Follow focus for smooth and accurate focus adjustment
- Anti-slip dual handgrips for a firm grip while filming moving subjects
- Soft rubber shoulder pad to reduce muscle strains
- Multiple 1/4” and 3/8” female threads to equip various devices
- – May be too heavy for some users
- – May take some time to set up and adjust according to personal preferences
3. Canon Ef-S 24mm F/2.8 Stm Lens
The Canon EF S 24mm f/2.8 STM lens is an excellent option for those who want to capture stunning photos with their Canon APS C cameras. This lens has a focal length of 24mm and a maximum aperture of f/2.8, providing great depth of field and low-light performance. It is equivalent to 38mm on a full-frame camera, making it an ideal lens for everyday use.
One of the standout features of this lens is its slim and lightweight design. It is the slimmest and lightest lens in the EF S series, perfect for photographers who are always on the go. The circular aperture with 7 blades delivers beautiful and soft backgrounds, making your subject stand out in every shot.
The Canon EF S 24mm f/2.8 STM lens has a maximum magnification of x0.27, allowing you to capture stunning close-up shots. The minimum focusing distance of 0.16 meters/0.5 feet makes it easy to get up close and personal with your subject.
Another great feature of this lens is its full-time manual focus, which allows you to make manual focus adjustments while in One Shot AF mode. This makes it easy to fine-tune your focus and capture the perfect shot every time.
This lens is compatible with all non-full-frame Canon EOS digital SLRs, making it a versatile and reliable option for photographers of all skill levels.
- Slim and lightweight design
- Circular aperture with 7 blades for beautiful, soft backgrounds
- Full-time manual focus allows manual focus adjustments while in One Shot AF mode
- Maximum magnification of x0.27 for stunning close-up shots
- Compatible with all non-full-frame Canon EOS digital SLRs
- – Not suitable for full-frame cameras
4. Mini Focus Pro: A/b Stops & Snap-On Belt
The SmallRig Mini Follow Focus 3010 is an excellent tool for easy and quick focus control in video shooting. This follow focus is compatible with most cameras on the market, including DLSRs and Mirrorless Cameras. It features a super lightweight design with only 195g, making it compact and portable, and easy to carry outside. The compact design of this follow focus makes it perfect for shooting in tight spaces or on the go.
The A/B hard stops of the SmallRig Mini Follow Focus 3010 are adjustable, allowing you to adjust the suitable A/B focal length according to your shooting needs. You can also turn on/off the AB stops lock to easily switch between 360° unlimited zoom and A/B focal length. The anti-slip and anti-sweat design of this follow focus provides an excellent damping feeling and ergonomic design, making it comfortable to control the focal length you need more accurately and comfortably. This feature ensures better shooting results.
SmallRig Follow Focus 3010 adopts a modular design, allowing for easy assembling and disassembling on the left and upper sides of the camera. Additionally, the included 15mm Rod 1050 and Rod Clamp (with NATO rail) 3011 allows for attaching other SmallRig accessories such as NATO Side Handle 2187, Super Clamp Mount 1124 to improve the compactness of your equipment. The installation angle of this follow focus can be adjusted, making it suitable for handheld, tripod-mounted, and other shooting scenarios.
The SmallRig Mini Follow Focus 3010 comes with snap-on gear ring belts and interchangeable M0.8 gears (standard M0.8-43T gear, optional model: M0.8-65T gear 3200, M0.8-38T gear 3285). These features enable this follow focus to be compatible with different diameters of lenses and achieve diversified shooting. Additionally, you can choose additional gears to help achieve a better shooting experience, such as the SmallRig Seamless Focus Gear Ring 3291/3292/3293/3294/9295/3296 and the SmallRig Storage Bag 3704.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy carrying outside
- Adjustable A/B hard stops for suitable focal length
- Anti-slip and anti-sweat design for better control
- Modular design for easy assembling and disassembling
- Adjustable installation angle for various shooting scenarios
- Snap-on gear ring belts and interchangeable M0.8 gears for diversified shooting
- Compatibility with different diameters of lenses
- Additional gears available for better shooting experience
- Ideal for shooting in tight spaces or on the go
5. Alturaphoto Wide Angle Lens With Macro Portion.
The lens attachment is a must-have for any photography enthusiast who wishes to capture breathtaking wide-angle photos. It is easy to screw on to the front of your lens, instantly expanding the field of view. Moreover, it features a detachable macro lens that allows users to capture high-resolution close-ups of small objects. The lens attachment is compatible with popular 58MM lens models, including Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM, Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM, Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III USM, Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM, Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM, Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR, Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G, Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G, Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/4-5.6 R, Panasonic Lumix G X Vario 12-35mm f/2.8 II, and Fujifilm XC 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS II lenses.
Please ensure that your camera's lens thread size is 58mm before ordering as the lens attachment is compatible with 58mm lenses only. Camera models compatible with the lens attachment are Canon EOS Rebel T7 T7i T6i T6 T6s T5i T5 T4i T3i T100 SL3 SL2 SL1 90D 80D 77D 70D 1100D 700D 650D 600D 550D 7D Mark II 6D Mark II 5DS 5D Mark II 1D Mark II M3 M5 M6 M10 M50 M100 M200 R RP. To identify your camera's lens thread size, look for the number marked on the lens barrel or printed underneath your lens cap. The number is always preceded by a ''Ø'' (diameter) symbol. For example: Ø58 = 58mm lens thread size.
The lens attachment is backed by a 90-day satisfaction guarantee, ensuring that customers are satisfied with their purchase.
- Easy to screw on to the front of your lens for an instant expansion of the field of view
- Detachable macro lens for high-resolution close-ups of small objects
- Compatible with popular 58MM lens models from various brands
- Backed by a 90-day satisfaction guarantee
- – Compatible with 58mm lenses only
6. Full Frame Telephoto Lens For Canon Eos
The lens has a 67mm filter size and a minimum focus distance of 0.85m. The aperture range is from F/1.8 to F/22, and the lens construction consists of 6 groups of 9 pieces. It provides a full-frame view with a level of 16 degrees, vertical of 24 degrees, and diagonal of 28.5 degrees. The lens also has electronic contacts and a USB connection for firmware upgrades. It is perfect for a variety of photography genres, including architecture, landscapes, portraits, sports, and theatre photography.
- Wide aperture range
- Full-frame view
- USB connection for firmware upgrades
- Suitable for a variety of photography genres
7. Canon Ef-S 18-200mm F/3.5-5.6 Is Standard Zoom Lens For Canon Dslr Cameras
The Canon EF-S 18-200mm lens is a versatile and reliable option for APS-C DSLRs. With a focal length range of 18-200mm, it is suitable for a wide variety of photography genres, from landscape to portrait. Its closest focusing distance is 1.48 ft./0.45m, and its maximum close-up magnification is 0.24x, making it possible to capture detailed shots of subjects up close.
This lens has a maximum aperture of F3.5-5.6, and a minimum of F22-38. It also features an image stabilization system with 4 stops, which ensures sharp images even when taking shots in low light conditions. For added convenience, it has a micromotor-type AF motor that provides reliable and quick autofocus, although it doesn't have full-time manual focusing. It has a 72mm filter diameter and is compatible with Canon APS-C cameras, where it has an equivalent focal length of 28.8-320mm.
Overall, the Canon EF-S 18-200mm lens is a great all-in-one lens option for photographers who value convenience and versatility. It offers a wide range of focal lengths, a respectable maximum aperture, and an image stabilization system that ensures sharp images in low light conditions.
- Wide range of focal lengths suitable for many photography genres
- Image stabilization system ensures sharp images even in low light conditions
- Micromotor-type AF motor provides reliable and quick autofocus
- – Doesn't have full-time manual focusing
8. Altura Rapid Fire Camera Hand Strap
The leather camera strap is the perfect accessory for any DSLR camera with a standard ¼" tripod screw mount. It is specially designed to grip the hand and wrist, preventing accidental slips that could lead to disastrous drops. This premium PU leather camera strap is adjustable to fit hands of all sizes and snaps on easily. The DSLR strap is compatible with Canon, Sony, and Nikon cameras. It is compatible with a wide range of Canon cameras, including the T8I, T7i, T7, T6, T6i, T6s, T5, T5i, T4, T4i, T3, T3i, T2i, Sl2, SL3, M50, 70D, 80D, 90D, 77D, 6D, 6D Mark II, 5D, 5D Mark II, 5D Mark IV, EOS R, EOS RP, M100, M6, and 1D. It also works with Sony Alpha cameras, such as the A6000, A6100, A6300, A6400, A6500, A6600, A5100, A68, A9, A9II, A7, A7II, A7III, A7RII, A7RIII, A7RIV, A7S, A7SII, RX100III, RX100IV, RX100V, RX100VI, and RX100VII. Additionally, it is compatible with Nikon cameras, including the D3500, D3400, D3300, D3000, D5600, D5500, D7500, D7200, D7100, D750, D780, D850, D810, D610, D500, D60, D5, Z6, and Z7.
This leather camera strap is a durable and reliable accessory that will help you keep your camera secure. The adjustable design ensures that it will fit hands of all sizes, while the premium PU leather material provides a comfortable and secure grip. The snaps are easy to use and the strap is compatible with a wide range of Canon, Sony, and Nikon cameras, making it a versatile accessory for any photographer.
The leather camera strap is the perfect accessory for any photographer who wants to keep their camera secure and protected. It is adjustable to fit hands of all sizes and snaps on easily, making it a versatile accessory for any camera with a standard ¼" tripod screw mount. The premium PU leather material provides a comfortable and secure grip, while the compatibility with Canon, Sony, and Nikon cameras ensures that it will work with a wide range of cameras. This durable and reliable accessory is a must-have for any photographer.
- Adjustable to fit hands of all sizes
- Compatible with a wide range of Canon, Sony, and Nikon cameras
- Made of premium PU leather for a comfortable and secure grip
- Easy to use snaps
- Durable and reliable accessory
9. Canon Ef 100mm F/2.8l Is Usm Macro Lens For Canon Digital Slr Cameras, Lens Only
The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro Lens is a mid-telephoto macro lens with a 100 millimeter focal length and a maximum aperture of 1:2.8, providing excellent image quality and clarity for close-up photography. This lens has a construction of 15 elements in 12 groups, a 23.4-degree diagonal angle of view, and an inner focusing system with USM and a full-time manual focus option.
With a closest focusing distance of 0.99 feet or 0.3 meters, this lens has a maximum close-up magnification of 1x, allowing you to enjoy life-size close-up capabilities without needing an adapter. This lens has a filter size of 67 millimeters and comes with a lens hood of ET-73. The lens is also compatible with 67 millimeter filters.
The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro Lens is Canon's first mid-telephoto macro 'L' series lens to include Canon's sophisticated Image Stabilization. This feature enables you to capture sharp handheld images, even in low light conditions, without having to use a tripod. Additionally, the lens has near-silent Ultrasonic focusing, which provides you with fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus, making it perfect for use in any shooting situation.
Please note that this lens cannot be used with the EF1.4X II; EF2X II extenders, nor are there any compatible close-up lenses available. However, with its excellent image quality, versatility, and advanced features, the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro Lens is a great choice for anyone looking to capture stunning close-up photographs.
- Excellent image quality and clarity for close-up photography
- Sophisticated Image Stabilization for sharp handheld images in low light conditions
- Near-silent Ultrasonic focusing for fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus
- Life-size close-up capabilities without needing an adapter
- – Cannot be used with the EF1.4X II; EF2X II extenders
- – No compatible close-up lenses available
10. Canon Macro Extension Tubes – Pro Set
This kit includes three extension tube sections of 12mm, 20mm, and 36mm, which can be used in any combination to achieve various reproduction ratios. These extension tubes are designed to allow the lens to focus closer than its normal minimum focusing distance, making them perfect for macro photography.
The extension tubes are made of high-quality brass and feature a sturdy metal and plastic construction, ensuring durability and longevity. The kit is designed with all the necessary electrical and mechanical couplings to maintain auto focus and TTL auto exposure, making it easy for photographers of all levels to use.
With this kit, photographers can capture stunning macro shots with ease and precision, making it a must-have accessory for any photography enthusiast. Plus, with a 1-year warranty, you can purchase with confidence knowing that your investment is protected.
- Includes three extension tube sections for various combinations
- Allows lens to focus closer than its normal minimum focusing distance
- Designed with necessary couplings for auto focus and TTL auto exposure
- Made of durable brass and sturdy metal and plastic construction
- Ideal for macro photography
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Best Lenses For Dslr Filmmaking FAQs
How do you choose the right lenses for DSLR filmmaking?
Choosing the right lenses for DSLR filmmaking can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. The first step is to determine the type of shots you want to capture and the style of your film. This will help you choose the right focal length and aperture. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing landscapes and establishing shots, while telephoto lenses are perfect for close-ups and detail shots.
Another important factor to consider is the lens speed or aperture. A wide aperture will allow you to shoot in low light conditions and create a shallow depth of field, which is perfect for creating a cinematic look. A lens with a fast aperture of f/2.8 or wider is ideal for filmmaking.
It is also important to consider the quality of the lens. A high-quality lens will produce sharp and clear images with minimal distortion. Look for lenses with a good reputation for sharpness and clarity.
Lastly, consider your budget. High-quality lenses can be expensive, but they are worth the investment if you plan on using them often. However, there are also budget-friendly options available that can still produce great results.
In summary, when choosing lenses for DSLR filmmaking, consider the type of shots you want to capture, the lens speed or aperture, the quality of the lens, and your budget.
How do you use lenses to achieve a cinematic look in DSLR filmmaking?
To achieve a cinematic look in DSLR filmmaking, using the right lenses can make a significant impact. While the type of lens you choose will depend on the specific look you want to achieve, there are a few general guidelines to consider.
Firstly, prime lenses are preferred over zoom lenses as they offer a wider aperture and can create a shallower depth of field, resulting in a more cinematic look. Additionally, using lenses with a wider focal length can help create a more immersive feel, especially when shooting in tight spaces or capturing action scenes.
Another important factor to consider is the use of filters. ND filters can help control the amount of light entering the lens, allowing you to use wider apertures and slower shutter speeds. This can help create a more cinematic motion blur effect.
Finally, using lenses with a specific lens coating or color profile can also help create a cinematic feel. For example, vintage lenses or lenses with a warm color profile can create a nostalgic or romantic look, while lenses with a cooler color profile can create a more modern or edgy feel.
In summary, using the right lenses and filters can help achieve a cinematic look in DSLR filmmaking, but it ultimately depends on the specific style and feel you want to portray in your film.
What are the benefits of using prime lenses for DSLR filmmaking?
Prime lenses are a popular choice among DSLR filmmakers due to their numerous benefits. Firstly, prime lenses have a wider aperture, which allows for a shallower depth of field and better low-light performance. This means that filmmakers can achieve a more cinematic look and capture high-quality footage even in low-light scenarios.
Secondly, prime lenses are typically sharper than zoom lenses as they have fewer moving parts and are designed for a specific focal length. This means that the image quality produced by prime lenses is generally superior, making them a great option for filmmakers who want to achieve the highest levels of detail and clarity in their footage.
Thirdly, prime lenses are generally more compact and lightweight than zoom lenses, making them easier to carry and handle on set. They also tend to be less expensive than zoom lenses, which makes them a great choice for independent filmmakers who are working within a budget.
Overall, the benefits of using prime lenses for DSLR filmmaking are numerous, including improved low-light performance, sharper image quality, and greater portability and affordability.
What are the best lenses for DSLR filmmaking?
There are several lenses that are suitable for DSLR filmmaking, but the best ones depend on the type of shots you want to capture. For wide shots, a wide-angle lens like the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 or the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM would be perfect. They offer a wider field of view, allowing you to capture more of the scene.
For medium shots, a standard zoom lens like the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM or the Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 would be ideal. They offer a versatile focal range, allowing you to zoom in and out to capture different angles.
For close-up shots, a prime lens like the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM or the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art would be great. They offer a wide aperture, allowing you to create a shallow depth of field and isolate your subject from the background.
Overall, the best lenses for DSLR filmmaking are those that offer a wide aperture, smooth focus, and sharp image quality. Choose the one that best fits your shooting style and budget.
What makes a good cinema lens for DSLR filmmaking?
A good cinema lens for DSLR filmmaking should have several key characteristics. Firstly, it should have a wide aperture to allow for greater control over depth of field and low light performance. This means the lens should have a low f-stop number, such as f/2.8 or lower. Secondly, the lens should have smooth focus and aperture control, allowing for precise adjustments during filming. It should also have a manual focus option, as autofocus can be unreliable in filmmaking. Additionally, the lens should be well-built and durable, able to withstand the rigors of professional use. Finally, the lens should produce sharp and clear images with minimal distortion or aberrations. Some popular choices for cinema lenses include those from Zeiss, Canon, and Sigma. Ultimately, the best cinema lens for DSLR filmmaking will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the filmmaker.