One of the most difficult choices in the era of DSLRs and mirrorless cameras for filmmaking seems to be picking the right lens for shooting. From Sigma to Sony, Zeiss, Xeen and everything in between, there is a multitude of lens manufacturers and not only that, there is a vast array of lens properties ranging from those with low f-stops to those who can see an object from miles away.
With all these options, it’s easy to get lost and end up with a lens that is low quality or one that isn’t even compatible with your camera. To tackle the issue, filmmaker Jack Junior has created a video that outlines some of the best lenses to use for full-frame mirrorless and DSLR filmmaking, specifically for the Sony A6500 and A6300 cameras.
The first recommendation on Jack’s list is the Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4, which is considered as an excellent piece of glass for those who are beginning to build out their lens kit and need a solid start. Overall, it’s a very versatile and all-around reliable performer. It can be used in a variety of situations mainly due to its wide zoom range from a wide 18mm to a decent telephoto 105mm focal length. Besides the generous focal distance, the lens also has a constant aperture, meaning that no matter what focal length you’re operating the unit at, the aperture will remain the same throughout.
Another recommended zoom type lens is the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens. Unlike the Sony’s rival, the Sigma has a much shorter zoom range of 18-35mm. Despite the fact, the lens does have a much lower f-stop of f/1.8, which means that not only do you get a greater shallow depth of field effect in your shots, but the lens also aids immensely shooting in low-light conditions. As a bonus, the unit has a constant aperture so just like with the Sony lens, the aperture doesn’t change as you zoom in.
It goes without saying that when it comes to portability, a prime lens is clearly a way to go. In that regard, Jack recommends the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens. It’s a solidly built using high-quality glass that provides you with sharp images every single time. In addition, the very low f/1.4 aperture means that the unit can handle low-light shooting conditions like a beast. It’s also worth noting that while the autofocus of this rival is adequate, the manual focus mode seems a bit glitchy and unreliable for quick shots, so keep that in mind.
Ultimately, for those looking for a prime lens that provides greater focus control and stunning picture quality, you may want to invest in a prime cine lens. As a rule, these have a longer focus throw for fine focus tuning as well as their aperture is generally lower than most photography counterparts. If this is what you’re looking for, then the SLR Magic Cine 35mm f/1.2 FE Lens might be the perfect fit for your workflow. Of course, it’s an entirely manual lens that lacks features such as built-in autofocus and IS, which might cause some difficulties while shooting in some run-and-gun or vlog situations.
What are your favorite Sony A6300/6500 lenses? Let us know in the comments below.
[source: Jack Junior]
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Only one of those lenses have OSS. Sadly, and especially for the a6300, it is an essential requirement for video shooting with those cameras due to the rolling shutter. My three, Sony E 10-18mm f/4 OSS Lens, the above mentioned 18-105mm, Sony E 35mm f/1.8 OSS Lens.
Anyone ever watch their own stuff critically? Could be an informative vid but I’ll never know since I don’t watch vids with LOUSY echoing audio. Discounts whatever they have to say concerning video. Getting proper audio is so easy to do theses days yet some apparently don’t think it’s important to even try.
I prefer the Canon 24 to 105 using the Meta bones adapter. Another favorite is the Rokinon 12mm F2. I shot time-lapse of the eclipse a Casper Wyoming using an a 6500 and the Rokinon 8mm F2 .8. So many good lenses so little money.