Lenses That Are Truly Great for Video Shooting: 2026 Selection
January 20, 2026
You can shoot video even on a smartphone, but when it comes to a serious image - the lens decides a lot. Some take a fast prime to play with depth, others look for a zoom with quiet focus and smooth stabilization. The same lenses behave differently in photo and video, so it's important not just "what will fit", but what will be convenient specifically during shooting - without jerks, motor noise, and strange flares. This selection includes options that have proven themselves in practice.
1. Sony FE 20mm f/1.8G (SEL20F18G)
Sony FE 20mm f/1.8G is a wide prime that is often chosen for video not just for the sake of "wide for wide's sake", but because it provides the necessary space in the frame without distortions. The lens is lightweight, doesn't unbalance the camera, autofocus works quietly and quickly. Suitable for vlogs, walks, scenes with movement when you need to hold a stable shot even handheld.
What's nice - good aperture, you can shoot at dusk or in dim lighting. The image is sharp across the entire frame, no "soap" at the edges. On a tripod or gimbal - it works confidently. And if you need to shoot something from a very close distance - it easily focuses from 19 centimeters.
Key points:
Fast and silent autofocus Linear Motor
Good sharpness across the entire frame
Suitable for vlogs, travel video, and reportage
Lightweight and compact for its class
Minimum focusing distance - 0.19 m
Specifications:
Focal length: 20 mm
Aperture: f/1.8
MFD: 0.19 m
Filter: 67 mm
Size: 74 × 85 mm
2. Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM
Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM is a compact and lightweight wide-angle lens that behaves quite predictably in video. The STM motor autofocus works quietly, suitable for shooting on a tripod, gimbal, and even handheld at arm's length. 16 mm is not a universal lens, but if you need to cover more in the frame, especially in confined spaces - the lens handles it well.
It doesn't look fancy, but that's exactly what many like - nothing extra, just a wide angle, light weight, and a working image. The bokeh is modest, but for video focused on space - it's not a drawback.
Key points:
Lightweight and unobtrusive on the camera
STM motor works quietly in autofocus
Well suited for indoor and outdoor video
Shoots from a very close distance - from 13 cm
Specifications:
Focal length: 16 mm
Aperture: f/2.8
MFD: 0.13 m
Filter: 43 mm
Size: 69 × 40 mm
3. Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (A063)
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 is a universal zoom that's convenient to use in video where shots constantly change from wide to tighter. It covers the typical "working" focal range, and the constant f/2.8 aperture provides a stable image in difficult conditions. Focuses quickly and without extra noise, suitable for both autofocus and manual mode.
It's not the lightest, but the balance on the camera feels normal. For shooting reports, interviews, events, and even staged scenes - a flexible tool. And yes, it allows close-up shooting too - focuses from 18 cm, which is convenient if you need to show an object or texture in detail.
Key points:
Convenient zoom from wide to portrait shot
Constant aperture f/2.8 across the entire range
Fast focusing with VXD motor
Can shoot from close distance - from 18 cm
Suitable for interviews, events, scenes, and travel video
Specifications:
Focal length: 28-75 mm
Aperture: f/2.8
MFD: 0.18 m
Filter: 67 mm
Size: 75.8 × 117 mm
4. Fujifilm XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR Silver
Fujifilm XF 16mm f/2.8 is a lightweight and compact prime most often taken for city shooting, vlogs, and architectural shots. It doesn't overload the camera, doesn't pull on the gimbal, and autofocus works almost silently. It performs especially well paired with lightweight crop cameras from Fujifilm, where stability and predictability in the frame are important.
Despite its modest size, the lens delivers an even image and handles details well in open scenes. The angle is enough to capture space, but without pronounced "wide-angle" distortion. Focuses close - you can shoot product shots or lead a dynamic report.
Key points:
Minimalist, lightweight body
Suitable for vlogs and handheld shooting
Silent autofocus with stepping motor
Works from minimum distance of 17 cm
Specifications:
Focal length: 24 mm (equivalent)
Aperture: f/2.8
MFD: 0.17 m
Filter: 49 mm
Size: 60 × 45 mm
5. Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD
Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 is a universal zoom for those who shoot in different conditions: from interviews and walks to dynamic scenes. Thanks to built-in stabilization and constant f/2.8 aperture across the range, the lens performs well in video, especially in low light or handheld shooting. Transitions between shots are smooth, focus is sticky, motor works almost silently.
For video, it's a convenient working tool: one lens covers most of the needed focal lengths, and the stabilizer is really useful, especially without a gimbal. It weighs little, balance on crop cameras is good. And yes, you can shoot close-ups calmly - minimum distance to subject is only 19 cm.
Key points:
Wide focal range from 25 to 105 mm (equivalent)
Stabilizer helps with handheld shooting
Constant aperture f/2.8 across the entire range
Great for reports, vlogs, travel shooting
Specifications:
Focal length: 17-70 mm (25-105 mm equivalent)
Aperture: f/2.8
MFD: 0.19 m
Filter: 67 mm
Size: 75 × 119 mm
6. Panasonic 12-60mm f/2.8-4 Leica DG Vario-Elmarit ASPH POWER OIS
Panasonic 12-60mm f/2.8-4 is a zoom for Micro 4/3 systems often used for video. Thanks to the built-in Power OIS, the lens holds the image well on the move and helps when shooting without in-camera stabilization. The focal range is universal - from wide to medium telephoto, and the aperture at the beginning of the range allows pulling off scenes indoors or in cloudy weather.
It works smoothly, linear motor autofocus - without jerks and noise. Often used with hybrid cameras like the GH series. Close-up shooting is no problem: you can approach the subject almost right up to it. Metal body, dust and moisture protection - a nice bonus if you have to shoot in different environments.
Key points:
Universal zoom with 24-120 mm range (equivalent)
Optical stabilizer Power OIS
Suitable for reports, travel video, and studio work
Compact and protected body
Specifications:
Focal length: 12-60 mm (24-120 mm equivalent)
Aperture: f/2.8-4
MFD: 0.2 m
Filter: 62 mm
Size: 68 × 86 mm
7. Panasonic S 50mm f/1.8
Panasonic S 50mm f/1.8 is a classic prime for video when you need a calm angle without distortions and jerks. The image is even, without surprises, especially when shooting portraits, interviews, or scenes focused on the subject. Thanks to f/1.8 aperture, you can confidently work in dim light while maintaining volume and depth.
The lens doesn't make noise, focuses quietly, nothing jerks in the frame - and this is especially important when working with live sound. It's lightweight, doesn't unbalance the camera, and no issues with filters - standard 67 mm diameter. A simple working lens without extra weight and hassle.
Key points:
Classic angle for portraits and scenes with depth
Aperture f/1.8 - convenient in low light
Autofocus works smoothly and almost silently
Suitable for interviews, scenes, vlogs
Compatible with 67 mm filters
Specifications:
Focal length: 50 mm
Aperture: f/1.8
MFD: 0.45 m
Filter: 67 mm
Size: 82 × 73 mm
8. Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM
Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM is a serious prime with character. It's often used for production video where soft depth, focus control, and clean rendering are important. The f/1.2 aperture is not just a number here - it really works in the frame, providing dense blur and good subject readability even against complex lighting.
Autofocus works confidently, without jumps and misses. The lens is large, the weight is felt, but balance on full-frame cameras is maintained. For a videographer who wants not just to shoot, but to build a frame with mood, this is one of those lenses you "put on and don't touch".
Key points:
Deep bokeh and soft image at f/1.2
Suitable for video with mood and emphasis on light
Quiet autofocus with linear drive
Confidently works on full frame
Can shoot close-ups from 40 cm
Specifications:
Focal length: 50 mm
Aperture: f/1.2
MFD: 0.4 m
Filter: 72 mm
Size: 87 × 108 mm
9. Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD
Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 is a completely different approach. It's taken when you need to reach far: wildlife, sports, observation - everything where it's important "not to disturb" and not approach closely. Despite its size, the lens can be used handheld - the built-in stabilizer copes well, especially if the camera supports IBIS.
Yes, it's not about aperture or artistic bokeh. But if the task is to capture a bird, event, or action from a distance - it delivers. Autofocus is fast, works without jerks.
Tripod foot is included, so for long shooting sessions - it's convenient.
Key points:
Telezoom with huge range - from 150 to 500 mm
Built-in stabilizer helps with handheld shooting
Quiet and fast autofocus with linear motor
Convenient tripod collar
Minimum focusing distance - 60 cm
Specifications:
Focal length: 150-500 mm
Aperture: f/5-6.7
MFD: 0.6 m
Filter: 82 mm
Size: 93 × 210 mm
10. Sigma AF 30mm f/1.4 DC DN
Sigma 30mm f/1.4 is a versatile prime that feels especially good in video on crop cameras. Its field of view is close to classic 50 mm, and the f/1.4 aperture allows shooting even in minimal lighting without excessive noise in the frame. Sharpness at wide open is good, bokeh is soft and doesn't ripple. It looks calm in the frame, without intrusive artifacts.
Focusing works accurately and quite quickly, noise is minimal - suitable for shooting with live sound. Compact dimensions, affordable filter - diameter only 52 mm. No fancy features, just a working lens that can handle interviews, cafe scenes, and city walks.
Key points:
Aperture f/1.4 - can work even in the evening
Classic angle on crop - about 45 mm equivalent
Smooth bokeh, good background rendering
Quiet autofocus suitable for video with sound
Lightweight and compact body
Specifications:
Focal length: 45 mm (equivalent)
Aperture: f/1.4
MFD: 0.3 m
Filter: 52 mm
Size: 73 × 65 mm
11. Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4G OSS
Sony 18-105mm f/4 is a lens taken for video when maximum versatility is needed. It has a constant f/4 aperture and smooth Power Zoom, which is especially convenient for shooting on the move or in run-and-gun style. Exposure doesn't jump during zoom, stabilization helps hold the frame even at 105 mm. Autofocus triggers accurately and quite softly.
It's not about artistic blur, but if you need to work a scene without changing lenses - it handles it. The zoom is electronically controlled, so all movements are smooth without jerks. The angle covers wide shots, medium, and even light portraits. Often taken as the main zoom for APS-C video.
Key points:
Electronic zoom without jerks - convenient for video
Constant aperture f/4 across the entire range
Good focal range - from wide to portrait
Has optical stabilization
Quiet and accurate autofocus
Specifications:
Focal length: 27-157 mm (equivalent)
Aperture: f/4
MFD: 0.45 m
Filter: 72 mm
Size: 110 × 78 mm
12. Panasonic 50-200mm f/2.8-4 ASPH. POWER O.I.S.
Panasonic 50-200mm f/2.8-4 is a telephoto lens for those who shoot distant scenes, reports, or want to neatly separate the background. It has optical stabilization, which is critical in video, especially when working handheld. The f/2.8 aperture at the short end allows maintaining depth even when light is low. And it's not a "monster" - moderate weight, convenient to use even without a tripod.
Focusing is sticky, stepping motor triggers smoothly and silently. If shooting video outdoors, in the city, or at events - it handles it calmly. For Micro 4/3 it's equivalent to 100-400 mm, so you can capture shots from afar without interfering.
Key points:
Good focal reach for shooting from a distance
Aperture f/2.8-4 - can shoot in various conditions
Stabilization helps hold the frame without a gimbal
Quiet stepping motor - doesn't spoil the sound
Doesn't overload the system with weight
Specifications:
Focal length: 100-400 mm (equivalent)
Aperture: f/2.8-4
MFD: 0.75 m
Filter: 67 mm
Size: 76 × 132 mm
13. Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM
Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM is a lens used in video not only for macro. It's often taken for portrait scenes, interviews, and close-ups where frame plasticity and stability are important. The focal length is calm, perspective is natural, and built-in stabilization really helps with handheld shooting, especially on long takes.
Autofocus works softly, without sharp jumps, which is important when shifting focus in the frame. Minimum focusing distance allows getting close to the subject and capturing details without changing lenses. As a result, it's a versatile tool - for product scenes and live video with people.
Key points:
Suitable for portraits, interviews, and macro video
Built-in stabilization helps with handheld shooting
Smooth autofocus operation without extra noise
Ability to shoot close-ups from a close distance
Convenient 67 mm filter diameter
Specifications:
Focal length: 85 mm
Aperture: f/2
MFD: 0.35 m
Filter: 67 mm
Size: 91 × 78 mm
14. Sigma AF 105mm f/2.8 DG DN Macro Art
Sigma 105mm f/2.8 Macro Art is a more specialized lens used in video for detailed scenes and precise depth work. It delivers a dense, readable frame and separates the subject from the background well. In macro video, it allows showing textures, details, and small movements without extra distortions.
Focusing is precise but not harsh in character - you can comfortably work in manual mode. Despite its macro orientation, the lens is often used for portrait video scenes when a compressed shot and calm background are needed. The body is larger than standard primes, but balance on the camera is maintained.
Key points:
Full 1:1 macro magnification
Suitable for detailed and product video scenes
Calm rendering and good background separation
Convenient for manual focusing
Compatible with Sony E and L-mount
Specifications:
Focal length: 105 mm
Aperture: f/2.8
MFD: 0.30 m
Filter: 62 mm
Size: 134 × 74 mm
15. Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD
Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 is a lens often chosen as the main one for video shooting without constant lens changes. The focal range covers wide shots, portraits, and medium telephoto. High aperture for a zoom allows working indoors and in the evening without strong ISO increase.
In video it's convenient because it allows quickly adjusting the frame during the scene. Autofocus with linear motor works confidently and without jerks. Yes, no stabilization, but on cameras with IBIS this is usually not an issue. The lens is heavy, but for production it's more of a working tool than a walking option.
Key points:
Wide focal range without changing lenses
Aperture f/2-2.8 for low-light work
Smooth and accurate autofocus
Suitable for reports, interviews, and events
Works well on full frame
Specifications:
Focal length: 35-150 mm
Aperture: f/2-2.8
MFD: 0.3 m
Filter: 82 mm
Size: 158 × 89 mm
16. Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3G OSS
Sony 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 is a telephoto lens most often taken for shooting distant subjects: wildlife, sports, or scenes where you simply can't get closer. Despite the impressive focal range, its weight and size are reasonable - for APS-C cameras, it's one of the most "walkable" options with such reach.
Optical stabilization really helps, especially when shooting video handheld. Autofocus with XD motor works quickly and accurately, holds the subject well even in motion. This is a lens for those who want to pull distant shots without carrying a huge backpack.
Key points:
Tele range 70-350 mm for distant shooting
Built-in optical stabilization
Accurate and fast autofocus with XD motor
Compact for its class
Well suited for outdoor or nature video
Specifications:
Focal length: 70-350 mm
Aperture: f/4.5-6.3
MFD: 1.1 - 1.5 m
Filter: 67 mm
Size: 142 × 77 mm
17. Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S
Nikon Z 35mm f/1.2 S is exactly the case when you want the softest background and depth even at a wide angle. The f/1.2 aperture gives a lot of freedom when shooting indoors or in the evening, and for video it allows building atmosphere through light and bokeh. The lens really shines in portrait and staged shooting.
The dual stepping motor makes focusing practically silent, and the image comes out sharp and clean even wide open. It's heavy - close to a kilogram - but it delivers confident results if you shoot thoughtfully with a cinematographic approach.
Key points:
Aperture f/1.2 - maximum blur and light
Excellent for shooting at dusk or indoors
Very soft bokeh and cinematic depth
Silent and fast focusing
Suitable for both photo and staged video
Specifications:
Focal length: 35 mm
Aperture: f/1.2
Filter: 82 mm
18. Panasonic Lumix S 18-40mm f/4.5-6.3
Panasonic Lumix S 18-40mm f/4.5-6.3 is a lightweight and compact zoom for those shooting on L-Mount who don't want to overload the camera. The focal range covers from wide shots to medium angle - convenient for vlogs, landscapes, walks, and cinematic video scenes. The lens weighs only 155 g, so the camera stays balanced even on a gimbal.
The image is sharp and natural, especially in the center. Focusing works stably, and the minimum distance of 55 cm allows staying close even indoors. This is the kind of lens you "throw in the bag just in case" - and don't regret it.
Key points:
Universal 18-40 mm range
Lightweight and compact - only 155 g
Great for vlogs and walk-around shooting
Suitable for cameras with L-Mount
Simple to use and not overloaded
Specifications:
Focal length: 18-40 mm
Aperture: f/4.5-6.3
MFD: 0.55 m
Filter: 62 mm
Size: 68 × 41 mm
19. Canon EF-M 11-22mm f/4-5.6 IS STM
Canon EF-M 11-22mm f/4-5.6 IS STM is a compact wide-angle lens often taken specifically for video. It's lightweight, doesn't pull the camera forward, and is almost unnoticeable. Thanks to stabilization and a stepping motor, it's well suited for shooting on the go and in situations where you don't want to bother with a tripod.
Focusing is smooth, center sharpness is stable, at the short end the frame is spacious with minimal distortion. Suitable for vlogs, camera walks, interior shooting. Mount it on Canon mirrorless cameras - and forget it's even attached.
Key points:
Lightweight and compact for handheld shooting
Has image stabilization
Smooth STM autofocus
Convenient for vlogs and interior shooting
Specifications:
Focal length: 17-35 mm (equivalent)
Aperture: f/4-5.6
MFD: 0.15 m
Filter: 55 mm
Size: 61 × 58 mm
20. Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS
Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS is a lens that often comes as a kit, but for video it's loved not just for its affordability. It's lightweight with motorized zoom, which is especially convenient for video shooting. Focusing doesn't jerk, zoom changes smoothly - perfect for quiet, unobtrusive frame movements.
Image quality is at the level of a standard kit lens, but thanks to Power Zoom it's one of the few entry-level lenses with which you can really edit clean video. It doesn't get in the way, doesn't unbalance the camera, and works well.
Key points:
Motorized Power Zoom for smooth zooming
Built-in stabilization
Compact and lightweight
Suitable for shooting on the go
Specifications:
Focal length: 24-75 mm (equivalent)
Aperture: f/3.5-5.6
MFD: 0.25-0.3 m
Filter: 40.5 mm
Size: 64 × 30 mm
21. Nikon Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Nikkor
Nikon Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Nikkor is a serious tool for those who shoot video regularly. This is the first Nikon Z lens with motorized zoom designed for video tasks. The zoom is adjustable, focusing is smooth, the ring throw is linear - everything needed for precise work.
Despite the range, it doesn't feel heavy, especially for handheld operator work. Suitable for short scenes, interviews, studio and field shooting. Focus doesn't breathe, stabilization works softly, everything is designed for comfortable video shooting without extra rigging.
Key points:
Power Zoom with adjustable speed
Image stabilization
Smooth focus with stepping ring
Designed for 8K video
Specifications:
Focal length: 28-135 mm
Aperture: f/4
Filter: 95 mm
22. Canon RF 600mm f/11 IS STM
Canon RF 600mm f/11 IS STM is a super-telephoto lens often taken for video when you need a lot of reach without heavy glass. It's noticeably lighter than classic telephotos, collapses, and doesn't take up much space in a bag. For handheld shooting, it's a rare case where 600 mm can actually be used without a tripod.
The fixed f/11 aperture has its limitations, but in video it's usually not critical. Stabilization works softly, the stepping motor focuses calmly without jerks. Suitable for nature shooting, distant scenes, and situations where distance is important.
Key points:
Compact form factor for 600 mm
Built-in image stabilization
Quiet STM autofocus
Convenient for handheld shooting
Specifications:
Focal length: 600 mm
Aperture: f/11
MFD: 4.5 m
Filter: 82 mm
Size: 93 × 270 mm
23. Canon RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM
Canon RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM is a lens often used in video for portraits, scenes with subject separation, and shallow depth of field work. It delivers a dense, calm image and holds focus well even wide open.
Despite the fast aperture, the lens behaves predictably. Stabilization helps with handheld shooting, autofocus is fast but without sharp jumps. Suitable for interviews, clips, and artistic scenes where background control is important.
Key points:
Fast optics for video
Optical stabilization
Smooth autofocus operation
Suitable for portrait scenes
Specifications:
Focal length: 135 mm
Aperture: f/1.8
MFD: 0.7 m
Filter: 82 mm
Size: 130 × 89.2 mm
24. Sigma AF 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM C
Sigma AF 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM C is a versatile super-telephoto zoom used for both photo and video. The range allows quickly changing shots without lens swaps, which is convenient for nature and dynamic scene shooting.
The lens is heavy, but the stabilizer helps smooth out small movements. Focusing works confidently, especially at long distances. Most often used with a tripod or monopod, but if needed it can be shot handheld.
Key points:
Large focal range
Optical stabilization
Suitable for shooting distant subjects
Has tripod collar
Specifications:
Focal length: 150-600 mm
Aperture: f/5-6.3
MFD: 2.8 m
Filter: 95 mm
Size: 260 × 105 mm
25. Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS II
Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS II is a compact zoom with motorized control originally designed for video. It barely adds weight to the camera and is well suited for handheld shooting, gimbals, and small rigs.
Power Zoom works smoothly without sharp jumps, which is important for neat pans and zooms in the frame. Image quality is typical for a compact lens, but in video it's valued for its controllability and quiet operation.
Key points:
Motorized zoom for video
Compact and lightweight body
Built-in stabilization
Convenient for shooting on the go
Specifications:
Focal length: 24-75 mm (equivalent)
Aperture: f/3.5-5.6
MFD: 0.25 - 0.3 m
Filter: 40.5 mm
Size: 64 × 30 mm
Conclusion
Video shooting isn't always about cinematic rigs and complex setups. Often it all comes down to one lens - how convenient it is, how it behaves in motion, how quiet the motor is, whether it holds stabilization. We collected models that you can really pick up and shoot with - without unnecessary fuss or compromises.
Some will go for a compact with Power Zoom, others won't part with a telephoto, and some will head straight for a fast prime. The main thing is that the glass doesn't get in the way of shooting, but instead adds freedom. Everything else is up to your hands, light, and a bit of luck.