Best Canon Lens For Video Shooting And Filming

If you own a Canon mirrorless or DSLR camera, then it shows that you have already taken a serious step towards your videography or vlogging career. But, for fine-tuning any video, you also need a good lens that can complement the camera's video quality. At present, Canon stands top when it comes to manufacturing lenses for filming videos.

best canon lens for video

If you are looking for the best Canon DSLR lens for video, whether it’s for your new (or old :P) YouTube channel, or recording lectures, or sports videography, then I have a list of some of the best lenses available for videography in the market today. The Canon lenses mentioned in this article use the standard EF and EF-S lens mount, so they can be easily used with your Full-frame and APS-C cameras.

There are numerous factors you have to look upon when choosing the best Canon lens for video blogging. Like you have to choose a lens based on whether you will shoot videos indoors/outdoor, how many people at maximum you want inside the frame, image stabilization, and a lot more factors. That is why I have included a detailed buying guide at the end of the article. So go ahead and choose the one that best suits your budget and requirement.

Choose your lens type of the best canon camera lenses for video shooting here

REVIEWS OF THE BEST LENS FOR VIDEO SHOOTING WITH A CANON DSLR CAMERA

Below I have mentioned the Canon DSLR lenses for video under each lens type

BEST CANON WIDE ANGLE LENSES FOR VIDEO

1. CANON EF 35MM F/2 IS USM - BEST CANON PRIME LENS FOR VIDEO

Canon 35mm - BEST LENSES FOR SHOOTING VIDEO WITH A CANON DSLR CAMERA

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Compatible with EF and EF-S cameras. 
  • 8 aperture blades. 
  • Filter thread measures 67mm. 
  • 4 stop image stabilization. 
  • Has a minimum focus distance of 24cm. 
  • Blue Spectrum Refractive Optics to reduce chromatic aberrations. 

FEATURES: Launched in 2012, this Canon 35mm f/2 lens is my choice for the best Canon lens for music video shooting. Though the 35mm provides a wide angle of view, you can still get a good emphasis on the subject when you zoom in. If you want to pair this with a crop-censored camera, this lens will give an equivalent full-frame length of 56mm.

DESIGN: Manual focusing works flawlessly with this lens because the manual focus ring is well damped and glides smoothly. For video purposes, it is advisable to have an internal focusing design. And the good news is that this Canon video lens has that.

PERFORMANCE: I paired this 35mm lens with my Canon 70d camera to see if the lens is capable of shooting live concert videos as well. And this lens impressed me.

Vloggers, concert videographers, or anybody interested in making short films can make the most of this lens.  Generally, L-grade lenses show better video quality. But though this lens doesn't come under this category, it still delivers good quality videos. You can use the lens for indoor video shoots because the f/2 is wide enough and lets in a lot of light.

WHY IS THIS FOCAL LENGTH BEST?

This Canon EF lens has a 35mm focal length, the most staple one. It provides better framing for video shoots.

This lens covers all the details and sharpness across the frame without any distorting factors at the edges.

The wide-angle focal range will cover almost the entire screen into the frame, so you can also use it to take videos in a large crowd.

Overall, it provides the best results in indoor and outdoor views.

Optics:

This canon lens incorporates an aspherical element and its optical lens formula. And it helps the element to remove the aberration. Using this lens, you can reduce any aberration, and it provides incredible quality videos. 

It involves a super spectra coating that removes the ghosting and flare, giving the crisp and clear video quality.

Stabilization:

Rock steady image stabilization makes it a tough competitor for  DSLR video lenses. This lens includes an ultrasonic motor for autofocus. The autofocus of this Canon lens is appreciable. It is fast, accurate as well as less noisy. Thanks to The Ring-type USM motor.

This lens helps to detect the camera even at slow shooting. It has excellent image stabilization.

Conclusion:

The Canon EF 35mm lens has a well-developed focal length which helps to shoot the far-away scenes close to your sight.

It is easy to carry and lightweight with remarkable focus capabilities.

As I said before, image stabilization is the best part of this lens. It is a perfect option to pick to shoot the perfect videos. Grab the opportunity. Buy it now!

What I liked about this lens:

  • Precise manual focusing. 
  • The sharpness at wide-open f/2 is  breath taking. 
  • Suitable for shooting music videos. 
  • The background separation of this lens is fantastic. 

2. CANON EF-S 10-18MM F/4.5-5.6 IS STM LENS - BEST CANON LENS FOR YOUTUBE VIDEOS

canon ef-s 10 -18mm - best canon lens for video

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Minimum focusing distance of 0.22m
  • Ultra-wide angle lens
  • Best for landscape videography
  • 4-stops Image stabilization
  • Enables full-time manual focus override
  • Narrow aperture range of f/4.5-5.6

"Perfect for vlogging and landscape videography"

FEATURES: Firstly, as the name indicates, this DSLR lens includes Image stabilization and also consists of an STM motor for silent AF during video recording sessions. This lens will not suit low-light videography, but if your shooting style predominantly uses time-lapse features, you can go for this wide-angle lens.

DESIGN:  24-70mm L II USM lens is famous amongst professionals. And to your surpriseLike the 24-70mmL II USM lens, this is also mainly made of high-quality plastic with metal focus and zoom rings.

Secondly, an STM AF motor is found here. This is an advantage because if you compare USM lenses vs. STM lenses, the latter is much preferred for videos while the former does wonder in still photography. But both ensure silent AF.

To give you a decent quality bokeh, there is a 7 bladed circular aperture present inside the lens. The lens is given Super Spectra coating to reduce lens flare and ghosting.

PERFORMANCE: I tested this EF-S lens on my 18 MP Canon T3i camera and let me tell my honest reviews about it's performance.  Firstly, this 10-18mm lens allows you to enjoy continuous AF while recording videos. Am I complicating? Okay, let me put it in simple terms. This feature helps you lock focus onto a stationary subject, and when this subject moves, the AF system will detect its movement and refocuses it back. But, make sure you're pressing the shutter halfway during this process.

When you compare this lens with its 10 years elder Canon 10-22mm f/3.5-5.6 USM lens, both are compatible with APS-C cameras (include 1.6x crop factor). But the elder one does not have IS technology and was also very pricey. Whereas this lens that was launched in 2014 includes Image stabilization and is affordable and lightweight.

As I always say, lower the focal length wider the angle of view will be. The best example of that is this 10-18mm lens. If you're a person who likes to shoot landscape videos, you can opt for this lens. But if you're planning to purchase a general-purpose lens, I would advice to try the following lens options given below.

Next, as this Canon video lens belongs to an ultra-wide lens type, it will keep the subject in sharp focus throughout its duration. If you like this kind of effect, you will fall in love with this lens. I used the lens for my outdoor video blogging, and I felt that the lens does wonder when shot outdoors rather than indoors.

Canon has correctly given the IS feature to this lens because the narrow aperture demands one. With this DSLR lens in your hands, you needn't worry about any camera shakes disturbing your footage.

To conclude, the lens includes an internal focusing mechanism, but I wish it also had an internal zooming feature as well. However, for the price point of around $300, it contains more than enough features for shooting ultra-wide angle videos.

WHY IS THIS FOCAL LENGTH BEST?

This canon lens has a 10-18mm focal length, and it provides an ultra-wide zoom angle of view. It allows a full-frame view while shooting each video. And most probably, it always enables the user to get the best videos of all time.

Focus:

It has an improved focusing mechanism. It has introduced a stepping STM motor for smooth and continuous autofocusing during video recording.

It has a rear focusing mechanism for quick processing and a high-speed CPU. Its rapid focus capability allows the user to obtain a distortion-free image.

It also enables full-time manual focus adjustment.

Stabilization of images:

It boasts an optical picture stabilization technology that can correct up to four stops of shaking. In tripod mode for video shooting, it efficiently decreases camera shake.

You can also get rid of the tremble caused by your shaky hands. It effectively manages vibrations and blurriness, resulting in a crisp image with no distractions.

Optics:

It has an aspherical and UD lens element in its optics. They eliminate aberrations and refuse to allow any factor to compromise image integrity.

The improved coatings produce images with outstanding contrast, high resolution, and little glare and aberration.

It produces crisp and clear images, with balanced colors and sharpness throughout the frame.


Conclusion:

The Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 lens offers outstanding optical quality and cutting-edge performance. It has talents that are beyond your wildest dreams.

It offers an ultra-wide field of view in a small package that fits effortlessly into your bag. This compact package provides dependable and quick performance, ideal for everyday usage.

Order this all-arounder lens right now!

What I liked about this lens:

  • Great for outdoor video shoots.
  • Continuous AF during video recordings.
  • STM motor ensures silent AF in movie mode.
  • Strong build
  • Image stabilization feature

3. CANON RF 24-70MM F2.8 L IS USM LENS - MOST EXPENSIVE CANON CAMERA LENS FOR VIDEO

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Minimum focusing distance of 0.69 ft
  • Has a filter thread of 95mm
  • An all-in-one Canon lens
  • Wide aperture range of f/2 – f/22

There should be the best performer for my mirrorless camera holders, correct?! Here you go with the Canon RF 24-70MM F2.8 L, image stabilization, and a high-speed USM motor for autofocus.

Professionals claim this to be one of the brightest zoom lenses ever invented!

As in the tag, you must have seen this is an expensive lens; however, this could be the best pair for your professional video shoots. Especially when you're planning to pair it with famous cameras like Canon EOS R6 or even with Canon 5D Mark IV, I'm not saying this lens will fit only these cameras. I just included these cameras because they do the best recording of videos.

What I liked about this lens:

  • Weighs 430g only
  • Image stabilization feature
  • Speed and durability is incredible
  • Image stabilization feature

BEST CANON STANDARD LENSES FOR VIDEO

4. CANON EF 50MM F/1.8 STM - Best Budget Canon Lens for Video

CANON EF 50mm - best canon lens for video

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Ensures Full-time manual focusing.
  • Filter size: 49mm.
  • 80mm focal-length on APS-C cameras
  • Minimum focusing distance of 0.35m.
  • Gives a shallow depth of field.
  • Super Spectra coating reduces lens flare and ghosting.

" Updated version of the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II lens in an affordable price"

FEATURES: Take your low light video shoots to the next level with this Canon 50mm STM lens. I'm emphasizing low-light shoots because prime lenses allow more light to pass through the lens, making it a great performer in dark/dim shooting conditions. And without a doubt, 50mm is the best prime lens range available in the market.

DESIGN: As of now, there are three 50mm Canon lenses, out of which two come with a USM AF motor and one comes with an STM AF motor, and this is the lens we are discussing now. When it comes to videos, I prefer using this STM version because it ensure silent continuous AF and is also less pricey when compared to the other two Canon 50mm lenses.

The Company has improved the optical structure of this lens by including a 7 bladed circular aperture, a metal mount instead of a plastic casing. You can toggle between auto and manual focus easily just by using a single control switch.

While recording videos, manual focusing works well. I hope many will agree to this. But if you have to enjoy frustration-less manual focusing, the ring should be sturdy, and I'm glad this lens has the same.

PERFORMANCE: The first thing that impressed me is the wide f/1.8 aperture that allows more than 8-times the amount of light compared to the standard zoom lens given with your EOS. So, I don't think you need an extra flashlight setup when you have this lens in your DSLR.

I initially used this lens with my Canon 35mm EOS camera for taking family pictures. When I used the same for video blogging, I did achieve the same blurred background effects with the main focus only on the subject. So If your someone like me who likes filmy effects like this, you can go for this lens.

As the lens does not have an Image stabilization feature, make sure to use a rig or a tripod to avoid camera shakes.

Though the manual focus is best for videos, some scenarios do need AF. In that case, you don't need a noisy and slow AF performance, right! So to give zero to very minimal noise along with fast AF, the STM motor is present. Overall, an all-in-one lens in a lightweight design!

WHY IS THIS THE BEST FOCAL LENGTH?

The 10-18mm focal length provides zoom with an ultra-wide angle of view, allowing you to capture all details in one photo. This focal length delivers a full-frame view of the subject while capturing every detail.

In low-light situations, its maximum aperture provides excellent results. The focal length broadens the perspective and allows the user to capture the most amazing photo ever.

Focus:

It boasts an excellent focusing mechanism that allows for reliable and continuous autofocusing while capturing video. A stepping STM motor with a high-speed CPU has been comprised for improved performance.

For high-speed processing, it incorporates a rear focusing mechanism. Its sharp focus solution helps customers obtain images that are free of distortion. It also enables full-time manual focus adjustment.

Stabilization:

It contains an image stabilization mechanism that can counteract camera shake by up to four stops. When your camera is in tripod mode for video recording, it effectively reduces camera shake.

You can also get rid of the movement caused by your unsteady hands. It controls vibrations and blurriness while providing a clear, distraction-free view.

Elements of optical lenses:

It has an aspherical and UD lens element in its optical formula. They reduce distortions and refuse to allow any irregularity that could affect image quality.

The lens coatings provide images with excellent contrast and resolution and little glare and aberration. It aids in the creation of clean, clear shots with improved color balance and sharpness throughout the frame.

Conclusion:

The Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 lens is optically flawless and offers cutting-edge performance. Its capabilities are much beyond your wildest dreams.

It gives you an ultra-wide field of view in a compact form that fits easily into your backpack This small size provides reliable and fast performance, making it a popular choice for everyday use.

Order it now to add to your lens collection!

What I liked about this lens:

  • Reasonable Price.
  • Continuous AF for movies.
  • Presence of STM focus for recording video.
  • Gives great cinematic effects to the videos while shooting.
  • Useful for family portrait photography as well.
  • Excellent compatibility with Full-Frame  and APS-C cameras.

5. CANON EF 24-70MM F/2.8L II USM - BEST CANON LENS FOR SHOOTING VIDEO INTERVIEWS

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Full-time manual focus override
  • Dust and moisture resistant
  • Lens mountings: Canon EF
  • High-speed CPU for fast and accurate AF 
  • Internal focusing.
  • Minimum focusing distance of 0.38m
  • Super Spectra coating to reduce lens flare.
  • Fluorine coated
  • Zoom lock feature.

        " Elder sibling of the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM lens with improved optical performance"

FEATURES: Enjoy high-quality zoom with this best canon standard zoom lens lens that has an aperture range of f/2.8 to f/22.Though primarily designed for Canon Full-Frame cameras like Canon 70d, 80d, Canon 5d mark IV etc. It does pair well with APS-C and APS-H cameras, where it gives an equivalent focal length of 34 to 112mm. The lens takes a big thumbs up for low-light video shoots where both low noise and perfect autofocusing are needed.

DESIGN: I would say that both the exterior design and the internal optic structure are supremely built! Let me start off with the optical features: It's got three Ultra-Low dispersion elements (One Super UD glass and two regular UD glasses) and three aspherical elements to take care of color fringing and other aberrations. The nine-bladed diaphragm is all set to give you perfect defocusing.

As said earlier, this is Canon's professional-grade lens ('L' lens), so it's equipped with the very famous ring-type USM motor, which helps to achieve fast and quiet autofocus. If you're a beginner, I recommend using this lens because its lightweight design will make your handheld shooting easy.

When coming to it's exterior look: The lens is primarily made of high-quality plastic with metal focus and zoom rings. Unlike most Canon lenses that have the zoom ring located on the lens' front, this lens has the same at it's rear end.

PERFORMANCE: Our main goal is to shoot high-quality videos, right? In that case, the lens should be capable of satisfying these two very primary conditions. They are a focal length range of around 20 to 100mm and a wide aperture of f/4 or even more expansive.

If we look at this lens, it's got a wide aperture of f/2.8 along with a wide focal length range of 24-70mm. Great! Moving on,  I used the lens to shoot a video in low-light, and I was in awe. So, if you're looking for the best Canon lens for recording videos in low-light then this is a must-have.

Are you asking me how this focal length range of 24-70mm is great for videos? A low focal length, let's say 30mm allows you to have a wider angle of view similarly; in instances where you need narrow depth of field, long focal lengths become helpful. Note that the lens is not parfocal, meaning you cannot zoom to 70mm and expect it to stay in focus when pulling back to 24mm.

Though this is a disadvantage when I see how the lens is capable of delivering blurred backgrounds for giving that filmy effect I don't consider the flaw a big mistake.

Overall, I feel that the Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 II USM is the best Canon lens for everyday use and for professional video conferences as well. So I give this is a big thumbs-up!

WHY IS THIS THE BEST FOCAL LENGTH?

The focal length of this lens is 24-70mm. This focal length provides a larger field of view and excellent close-ups.

It delivers a commendable performance in any situation. Because of its focal length, it is ideal for professionals. This focal length provides great framing throughout the zoom range, and the aperture performs consistently even in low light.

Lens components:

New developed optical lens elements have been added for improved image quality and performance. With the help of glass lens elements, it produces stunning effects.

It uses UD lens elements to rectify chromatic aberration and colour problems in the frame's corners. Spherical aberration is reduced by using aspherical lens elements.

It includes a coating that lowers flare and ghosting while also improving image color balancing.


Focus:

For autofocusing, it has a ring-type USM. It also includes a high-speed CPU for active operation and processing and sharp and rapid focusing. These qualities help the user maintain a quiet and steady focus. They accurately lock a focus on the subject, even while the user is moving.

With its clear focus, it produces a visible image.

Stabilization:

The lens's unique and dependable optics are safeguarded for long-term use. This lens combines dependability and durability. It features a fluorine coating to improve the working and eliminate the soiling impact.

It protects the lens from smudges and fingerprints. It uses revolutionary picture stabilization technology to handle distractions and retain quality, while the exterior is weather and dust sealed.

Conclusion:

The Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 has been designed with cutting-edge technologies to give users the most outstanding quality in any situation. It boasts well-developed optics that compensate for distortion and brighten visual contrast.

Its powerful zoom allows it to get close-ups with ease. It's an excellent choice for professionals that require expert assistance. It's also ideal for regular use. Profit from the opportunity.

Get this lens right away!

What I liked about this lens:

  • Weather sealed
  • Bright aperture
  • Ultrasharp.
  • Lightweight design
  • Perfect for wedding videography.
  • Fast AF.
  • Minimal distortion and vignette

BEST CANON TELEPHOTO LENSES FOR VIDEO

6. CANON EF-S 18-135MM F/3.5-5.6 IS STM - BEST CANON ZOOM LENS FOR VIDEO

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Internal focusing mechanism
  • Lens Construction: 16 elements in 12 groups
  • Instant manual focus override using the switch control. 
  • Closest Focusing Distance: 1.5 ft. / 0.45m
  • Filter Size: 67mm

                                          " A great outdoor lens that offers the best DSLR video autofocus"

FEATURES: If you want to posses a zoom lens that covers long focal length range, then this Canon APS-C lens for video is the one for you. It features a Stepper motor technology for delivering a fast AF. I wouldn't say the aperture range is as useful when compared to the above lenses. However if you're wanting to posses a Canon lens for your YouTube videos this lens should be fine.

DESIGN: This lens is the improvised version of the older 18-135mm EF-S IS lens. The older version does not encourage manual focus override and does not include a zoom lock switch. In contrast the newer version has these provisions. Adding to this the lens supports Internal focusing.

The lens is primarily made of plastic and comes with two control rings: One for adjusting the focal length while the other for manual focusing.

PERFORMANCE: The focus motor is efficient enough to provide smooth focus in Live view when it is paired along with a Canon SLR in an on-sensor phase-detection mode.

Image stabilization helps in handling the camera in low light levels using its lower ISO settings. The IS feature allows you to shoot sharp handheld videos without any kind of motion blur. Overall, the image stabilization does a decent job. 

WHY IS THIS FOCAL LENGTH BEST?

18-135mm is a zoom lens with a focal length of 18-135mm, making it ideal for sports videos. It allows you to approach your subject without getting too close to it. This focal length allows you to get the most outstanding images from a long distance. 

During video recording, the adjustable zoom range allows for natural-looking zooming. It's a good alternative because you can get close to the subject without changing positions and high-resolution video of fast-moving moments.

Focus:

The new Nano USM technology combines ring USM and STM for high-speed autofocus operation. With its rapid focus, it produces a smooth and nearly silent video.

The autofocus changes are exceptionally quiet, smooth, and rapid, allowing for ideal video recording. The ultrasonic motor allows for speedy focusing, and the full-time manual focus ensures accuracy.

Lens components:

Throughout its zoom range, this lens has outstanding optics for superb resolution. For better results, sophisticated glass lens elements have been integrated.

It has a UD and aspheric lens element for increased accuracy in the results. Its optics correct chromatic aberrations, flare, and ghosting with little distortion. It produces consistent results in both still and video capture.

Stabilizer for images:

It easily offers accurately focused shots by adjusting for the camera's motion with its IS technology. Its sharp focus makes it ideal for action photography and shooting subjects that move quickly.

Its image stabilizer and powered zooming capability provide more stable and sharper results. The dynamic IS system helps to reduce camera shake for more consistent results.

Even when the user is moving, the quality of the video is improved.


Conclusion:

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 offers unrivaled performance while retaining a powerful and refined appearance. It has a robust mechanical structure and cutting-edge optics.

The sleek design, easy zooming, and consistent results will meet your requirements. Feel the combination of dependability and durability. Get it now!

What I liked about this lens:

  • Good sharpness for a superzoom
  • Lightweight
  • Fast focusing
  • Effective stabilizer

7. CANON EF 70-200MM F/2.8L IS III USM - BEST CANON EF LENS FOR VIDEO

canon 70-200mm - best canon lens for video recording

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • A normal telephoto lens
  • Lens mounting: Canon EF
  • Allows both internal zooming and focusing.
  • 3.5 stops Optical image stabilization 
  • Dust and moisture resistant.
  • Effective focal length of 112-320mm when used with an APS-C camera.
  • Full-time manual focusing is encouraged.

" Identical twin of the Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II Lens with  Internal Zoom feature."

FEATURES: Professionals love this lens for its robust construction and effective image stabilization. If you wish to shoot very high-quality movies or short films, you can go for this L-grade lens.

DESIGN: Most of the design features of this lens looks similar to that of its predecessor Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II Lens. This includes the same optical design, image stabilization feature, and a USM motor for AF.

The minute differences include an Air Sphere coating in addition to the Super Spectra lens coating. Secondly, the front and the rear elements of the lens are given a fluorine coating to avoid dust and dirt accumulation.

PERFORMANCE: I don't have to provide a review content for this lens as the title itself speaks its massiveness. As said earlier, you need a 20 to 100mm lens for filming a quality video. And as this takes a step higher in giving you a 70 to 200mm working range, you're sorted.

Secondly, I said it's desirable to have a bright aperture of, say, f/2.8 - f/4 because videos demand wide apertures in general. This lens not gives you this provision but also works in dim lights.

Now, let me introduce a factor that wasn't present with the lenses mentioned above. Guess what? The lens is parfocal. I know you are going to purchase the lens for this feature. If you're new to this term, let me tell you what it actually means and why it's needed while shooting videos.

While shooting, it's obvious that you'll be working with variable focal lengths right. Say you're using the lens at 105mm, and suddenly you want to jump to 80mm. If the lens is not parfocal, you will lose the focus that was previously set. Whereas in the case of a parfocal lens, the focus remains unchanged even if the focal length is altered. I hope I've made the term clear!

Moving on, this the only lens discussed so far that provides an internal zoom feature which is yet another feature needed while recording videos.

Overall, I highly recommend buying this best Canon DSLR lens for video if you wish to possess a high-end lens for your studio setup. It is also one of the best lenses for DSLR filmmaking and for shooting sports events so give it a try!

What I liked about this lens:

  • Fantastic Image Stabilization.
  • Extreme high-quality build.
  • Works great for landscape photography as well.
  • Does not demand high ISO settings.
  • Comes with a lens hood.
  • Suitable for low-light conditions.

8. Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens - BEST CANON RF LENS FOR VIDEO

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Blue Spectrum Refractive Optics and Air Sphere Coating (ASC) given to reduce aberrations
  • Filter thread measures 82mm
  • Aperture Range: f/1.2 – f/16
  • Has a minimum focus distance of 85cm

If a portrait-length and perfection in the shots and videos are all you want, you should have your hands on this lens.

It's tack sharp, durable, fast AF (Ring-type USM), and shows almost NIL chromatic aberrations. Yes, it's a little pricey because of its tech features and the lens coatings.

It has a configurable control ring on the outside to adjust the exposure settings, aperture, ISO, and exposure compensation.

The only thing you have to note is that, unfortunately, this lens doesn't come with a built-in Image Stabilization, so you have to use a tripod for sure.

What I liked about this lens:

  • Bright aperture
  • Bokeh quality is good (9-rounded blades)
  • Portrait focal length
  • L-series Canon lens

BUYING GUIDE FOR PURCHASING THE BEST CANON VIDEO LENS

Make sure you read through this buying guide before purchasing a lens specifically for shooting videos because it's not mandatory that a well-performing camera lens should also work best for video recording. Get my point?

Not sure if you’re ready for a fully-fledged macro lens just yet? Check out this article on essential lenses for Canon to make video recording even more professional.

Being said that, there are several factors you need to know to make the right choice of the lens and I've given a detail explanation about each below. Please a have a look!

TYPE OF LENS:

Generally, there are different types of lenses like prime, standard, telephoto, wide-angle, zoom, and fisheye lenses. So your first thought should be what is your requirement?

  • If you're not sure about the type of videos you'll be shooting but looking for an all-purpose lens, you can go for a standard type lens.
  • While filming videos, it's obvious that the subject will be in a moving position. If you are aware of where exactly the subject is going to move, you can go for prime lenses because these have fixed focal length and works great for this category of users. Prime lenses also work great for low-light videography.
  • If you're a beginner videographer who doesn't know where exactly the subject is going to move, you can look for a telephoto lens.
  • For landscape videos, a wide-angle prime or wide-angle zoom lens are is recommended. Now, choosing between a prime and a zoom lens is up to your convenience. If you want variable focal lengths and like to play with different aperture settings, go for a zoom lens. Also, if you need to reframe the shots often, zoom lenses are recommended. Professionals will know how much should be their minimum focusing distance with the subject so you can for a prime wide-angle lens.
  • If you're looking for a lens for filming professional-like movies, you can proceed with fisheye kind of lenses because they work best for filmmaking.

IMAGE STABILIZATION:

This image stabilization feature is very much needed for videos though it does not mean much for still photography. Because still photographing takes fraction of a second, but in the case of videography, the duration is long and the video needs to be stabilized throughout its duration. 

So, please make sure the lens you're purchasing has an IS tag on it. If the lens does not ensure this, camera shakes will be prominently visible in your videos. And this feature is all the more critical for lenses that have a very narrow aperture.

FOCAL LENGTH RANGE:

Generally, for shooting videos, a focal length of around 20mm to 100mm is expected from a lens. 50mm lenses will give you a filmy feel and is the best prime lens range. If you want a lens for your talk-to-camera needs, a 35mm lens is the best choice.

APERTURE RANGE:

An aperture range of around f/4 or more should be the approximate aperture setting needed to take video footage; if you wish to have a cine look with low-light effects, you can choose a lens that allows f/4 to f/2.8 aperture range. If the lens enables an even wider of more than f/2.8, say f/2, f/1.8, you can take landscape videos effectively.

DE-CLICKED APERTURE CONTROL:

We have discussed earlier that manual focus works perfectly while shooting videos. If the lens's aperture has this de-clicking feature, you will not hear any click sounds when you turn the adjust the aperture ring. This is essential for videos especially!

PARFOCAL LENS:

If you're up to shooting a video for any professional cause, I recommend going for this type of lens is not all lenses will give you this provision. This parfocal ability actually means that it helps you stay in focus even when the focal length is changed. The Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM III is one such kind of parfocal lens.

OTHER IMPORTANT FACTORS:

This includes a continuous AF mode, manual aperture control, an internal zoom facility, a silent AF, and an ISO setting between 100-200. If your lens provides these additional features, you will never feel your video shoots tiresome or frustrating.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Are Canon cameras good for video?

Canon's recent model full-frame and mirrorless DSLR's like Canon EOS 1DX Mark III, Canon EOS R5, Canon EOS R6, and Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with Canon log are ruling the industry of video cameras for filmmaking and other related works.

Use any of the lenses mentioned above with any of these Canon cameras, and you're good to go. These cameras are also portable, lightweight, and perfect companions for run-and-gun videographers.

2. What mm lens is best for video?

The below-given options have worked out for most users, so you can try any of these focal lengths ranges given below:

  •  Suppose the lens is a wide-angle type. A focal length of 24-40mm on a full-frame camera or an equivalent focal length of 15-24 in an APS-C format is preferred.
  • If you wish to own a standard lens. Try going for a standard that allows a focal length of 50mm on a full-frame or an equivalent focal length of 35mm in an APS-C camera.
  • Lastly, if a normal to medium range telephoto lens is your preference, go for a lens with a focal length of, say, 85-100mm (Full-frame) or around 35-50mm (APS-C format).

3. What Canon lens do YouTubers use?

Most of the lenses that people use for creating YouTube videos are included in my list. They include: Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM Lens, Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens, Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens, Rokinon 8mm f/3.5 and Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 lens. If you wish to purchase any of these Canon lenses from Amazon, click the buy now button mentioned in the table as well in the review content.

CONCLUSION

These were the best Canon lenses for video chosen among the other camera lenses for Canon in the market today. Apart from the focus and production of sharp video footage, I have also considered other parameters like the ability to shoot in low-light conditions, reducing internal noise, compatibility with different cameras, ease of use, and portability.

Nicolas Gilli
 

Hi, I'm Nicholas Gilli, I'm a blogger who is very much interested in blogging about film-making gadgets. I have experience as a cinematographer in the film industry for more than 15 years. My blogs would comprise of articles about film making gadgets and guides on how to use them. Even if you are a beginner you will learn a lot about cinematography here. Happy reading.

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