Best Lens for Filmmaking?

To add to the point above: the Sigma is definitely a beast, but if youre really looking for performance vs cost, I gotta mention the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2. Its been my workhorse for a while now and honestly, the autofocus is snappier than the Sigma in my experience. If you want that cinematic look without the cine lens price tag, here is what I recommend for a solid, high-performance kit:

• Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2
• Super light, sharp, and great for gimbals.
• Sony FE 35mm f/1.8
• Tiny but incredibly sharp for those wide low-light shots.
• Tiffen 67mm Variable ND Filter
• You cant shoot video outdoors without one. Ive tried many lenses over the years, and spending thousands on G-Master or pro cine glass isnt always necessary when the newer Tamron and Sigma stuff is this good. Just make sure you get a decent ND filter or your footage wont look right in bright light. People underestimate how much the filter matters for that motion blur...

If you're serious about filmmaking, invest in proper cine lenses. The DZOFilm Vespid Primes are incredible value - full frame coverage, minimal breathing, long focus throw, and that organic cinematic look. Start with the 35mm and 75mm. Yes, they're manual focus only, but that's what you want for video work anyway.

For videography, a versatile 24-70mm lens is essential. This focal range is widely used and perfect for various shooting scenarios. While cinematography often favors prime lenses like 24mm, 35mm, or 50mm for their specific qualities, the key is to choose a lens that helps tell your story effectively.

The 24-70mm excels in event videography, offering flexibility for different shots without frequent lens changes. It's my go-to for weddings, electronic news gathering (ENG), corporate videos, and many concert shoots. I pair it with a 35mm prime for added versatility.

Remember, the best lens is one that captures your vision and enhances your storytelling capabilities.

Yep, this is the way

^ This. Also, looks like we covered the whole range from starter 50mms to those pro cine primes. If you want that perfect middle ground for long-term ownership, I gotta shout out the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art. It is absolutely amazing for the price and the build quality is fantastic! I have used mine for years and it hasn't let me down once. Its a total beast for narrative and event stuff. Quick tip: grab a good variable ND like the PolarPro Peter McKinnon Variable ND Edition II immediately. It makes shooting wide open in daylight actually possible without messing up your shutter speed. TL;DR: Skip the cheap stuff and go for a high-quality third-party zoom like the Sigma Art. It gives you the versatility you need and itll stay in your kit forever.

For filmmaking, the first lens should to get the 24-70mm f/2.8 standard zoom.

What's your budget and camera? Can't really recommend without knowing those. Also, what kind of films are you making? A documentary shooter needs different glass than someone doing narrative work.

24-70mm f/2.8 lens.

Your best lens really depends on budget. If you're starting out, get a nifty fifty (50mm f/1.8). They're cheap ($125-200), great in low light, and force you to learn proper framing and movement. Once you've mastered that, then consider investing in more expensive glass.