A philosophy behind prime lenses is that less is more. Prime lenses have only one focal length. That means no zoom capabilities, but also fewer distortions and aberrations on your images. The wider apertures also mean faster shooting capabilities. These are all must-haves for shooting high-quality videos and action stills. If you are looking to get focused and deep video footages at an affordable price range, here are the 5 best prime lenses for videography.

Outstanding Prime Lenses for your Videos

Canon EF 24mm F/2.8 IS USM

24mm prime lenses are perfect for capturing wider scene shots to set a story properly. This is the best lens size to mimic how the eyes travel across the scenery, which is handy for creating POV. Wider lenses also detect fewer wobbles when you move in towards the action or follow your subject’s path. Canon’s EF 24mm lens adds image stabilization that lessens edge distortions and corner frays that are the usual limitations of using other wide-angle prime lenses for videography.

Nikon AFS-DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G

Unlike the 25mm wide angle, the 35mm tightens up the shot and forces you to think each element through. In a way, this helps bring out the creative in you since you are always conscious of the composition that fit into your frame. Nikon’s AFS-DX 35mm lens is one of the most compact and lightweight in the market that delivers both the classic natural angle view and focused takes comparable to a 50mm.

Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art Lens

50mm lenses isolate your subjects to create that dramatic focus while keeping a safe distance from the action. The Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM delivers that weighty bokeh that locks the viewer’s eyes to the main point of interest. The close-ups that draw the viewers deeper into the story makes the 50mm one of the best prime lenses for videography.

Sigma 70mm f2.8 DG Macro Art

For intense moments where the tiniest facial gestures convey emotions, the 70mm macro lens does an excellent jobs. Sigma’s 70mm f2.8 DG Macro captures the last threads and bits of your subject and keeps in focus those details that we’d never notice from a normal 35mm or 50mm shot.

Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens

For those who consistently do serious work on portraits, the 135mm is a worthy investment. Canon’s EF 135mm creates the creamiest bokeh and magnifies pin-point sized features with captivating depth and quality.

Complete Your Videography Toolkit

Prime lenses are a great way to start your videography journey. With the solitary focal lengths, using prime lenses for videography force you to explore the art behind each shot, and improve your handling skills to maximize each range. You’ll also learn the mechanics for creating different effects, a valuable skill that will stay with you long after you move on to more advanced lenses.