- 26.2 Megapixel full frame CMOS sensor
- Optical viewfinder with a 45 point all cross type AF system. Compatible lenses: Canon EF lenses (excluding EF S and EF M lenses)
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF with phase detection & Full HD 60p
What is the best video lens for Canon 6D Mark II?
DSLR and mirrorless camera have replaced most of the consumer video camera market. The Canon 6D Mark II is part of these cameras that are perfect for video makers, if equipped with the right lens. Which lens should you buy for your video projects ? We prepared for you some tips on the best lenses to get depending on the kind of shots you want to achieve.
What to look for in a video lens ?
Even if some lenses are branded for a specific use in video, you can actually use pretty much any lens for your shootings, even some old school prime lenses. The rules of video making are only there to be transgressed. But generally, videographers may want to have fast and quiet autofocus, as it will take out the need for an expensive follow-focus on moving subjects. Having the brightest lens possible is a big plus for this sweet shallow focus. Finally, stabilized lenses, despite being more expensive, will always be better for a versatile use. As for the rest, follow our guidelines below!
The best video lens for a cinema look
When we talk about cinematic looks, we mostly refer to this classic cinema feel, with little to no distortion. Don’t look further, you need a prime 50 mm lens. This focal length gives results close to the human vision, and are widely used in the industry. Some are pretty affordable, but the stabilized ones will be a tad more expensive. If you have a consequent budget, we recommend you to have a look at anamorphic lenses, which will give you these beautiful lens flares and add to the overall feel.
The best video lens for run and gun
Run and gun is popular for vlogging, skateboard videos, or documentaries. For this setup, you need to be able to just grab your camera and start shooting. A wide angle lens is perfect for this use. 25 mm to 35 mm is good for a versatile use, but you can also go below and go for a fisheye look for these extreme distorted close-ups.
The best video lens for landscapes
Landscapes and cityscape shots are perfect to set your characters in their environment. As for pictures, you may want to invest in either a telephoto lens, or a zoom lens. 70 mm to 90 mm is usually a good range of focal length, but you may want to go beyond if you try to shoot remote locations.
The best all-rounder video lens
If you are on a budget, or want to get as much room as possible for your shots without changing lenses, zoom lenses are a solid bet. A 35-70 mm is perfect to get close-ups as well as scenery shots. Be aware that most affordable zoom lenses are not very bright, so you may need to work around their limitations or have to break your piggy bank.
Note: the product links in this article lead to Amazon.com
Must-have video lenses for filming with the Canon 6D Mark II:
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM
Weight: 805g
Filter size: 82 mm
If you are looking for a versatile lens that can do both landscape and portrait photography, then the Canon 24-70 mm is for you. Its construction quality is excellent, it is tropicalized with a superb finish and a good grip (this is a lens of the L series). It offers images of impressive quality, similar to what you can get with a fixed focal length, which is quite surprising for a zoom. The constant aperture of f/2.8 offers a superb depth of field, its very short focusing distance allows to take interesting shots and its USM autofocus technology is responsive and makes very little noise.
In short, it’s a lens dedicated to professionals or enthusiasts who want an optic that can be used every day. It’s close to perfection, despite some minor optical defects (a little vignetting and distortion), a fairly high weight, the lack of integrated optical stabilization and its high price.
Cheaper alternative (but still great for videos): the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS II USM
- 24 70 millimetre focal length, 38.4 112 millimetre equivalent focal length on Canon APS C cameras
- F2.8 constant maximum aperture; F22 minimum, ring type ultrasonic type AF motor with full time manual focusing
- 82 millimetre filters, closest focusing distance: 0.38 meter/1.25 feet
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Canon 16-35 f/4 L IS USM
Weight: 615g
Filter size: 77mm
An excellent wide-angle lens, perhaps the best value in its class. Its optical quality is excellent and it is stabilized! Without being a lightweight, it remains comfortable enough to use and is practical when travelling, whether for architectural or landscape photography. It has the red circle reserved for the lenses of the L series, so what we have here is a lens of excellent construction quality.
Even if there are lenses with wider apertures, the constant aperture of f/4 reduces the price compared to the f/2.8 version. In short, if you’re looking for a wide angle to start with your 6D, this one is great.
- Make sure this fits by entering your model number
- Full-time manual focus permits critical focusing precision, even in AF mode. Help provide excellent color balance
- Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm
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Sigma 35mm f/1.4 ART DG HSM
Filter size: 67 mm
An ideal focal length for street or reportage situationss. This Sigma 35mm f/1.4 offers spectacular results, with color rendering, contrast, image clarity and an incredibly beautiful bokeh. All the reviews on the web recommend it. The autofocus is silent and its construction quality impeccable.
Sold at an affordable price, it’s an optic that gives a natural angle of view, similar to what the human eye sees and therefore very useful when travelling or to shoot B-roll for your videos, but also photos in difficult light conditions thanks to its f/1.4 aperture.
- High speed with large aperture
- HSM (Hypersonic motor) and inner focusing system
- Accessories include: Lens Hood (LH730-03), carrying case
Useful accessories for video
Here is a small selection of extra tools you’ll need with your your Canon 6D Mark II to make your video shooting easier and improve the quality of your projects:
Conclusion
If you are wondering what is the best video lens for the Canon 6D Mark II, you should think in advance about the types of videos you plan to shoot mainly: sporting events, weddings, vlogging… Think about the focal lengths you’ll need for that.
You can also go on Youtube, type in the name of the lens you want and you should find plenty of test footage made with your Canon 6D Mark II and the specific lens you want. This will give you an idea of what equipment you will need to get.
Also, if you plan to do a lot of travel videos or travel vlogs, take into account the total weight with the camera body and the lens. If the whole thing is too heavy or bulky and lacks discretion, you won’t want to bother with it and would rather just shoot videos with your smartphone. You may also not want to risk damaging an extremely expensive lens.
And finally, perhaps the most decisive point about choosing the perfect video lens for your Canon 6D Mark II will be if you want to have professional quality videos.
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☛ USEFUL LINKS
- For more video lenses options, check this out: The best lenses for Canon 6D Mark II
- Canon 6D Mark II reviews round-up: should you buy it?
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