The Best Lenses For Sony Full Frame Video A7siii & A7iv

[@Levi_Allen]

What are your two must have lenses for filming?

[@Levi_Allen]

I've gotten some great responses on instagram and twitter so I thought I would ask here as well.

[@SloanChris]

@@Levi_Allen My 2 are 35mm 1.8 and 85mm 1.8 but more of a Hybrid Shooter .

[@Levi_Allen]

The 35mm is a really lovely lens

[@jasonnowwhat5041]

Currently using the Sigma 24-70 dg dn 2.8 but I’m strongly considering selling it for the 24-105 you showcased here. I would use primes for interviews and I often find myself wanting more reach.

[@Martincyborg]

Right now we are transitioning from the Sigma 14-24, Sony 35 1.8 and Zeiss 50 1.4 to 14GM, 35GM and 50GM. We absolutely adore using our 135GM. The 70-200GM hardly sees any use since we got it. 24GM is another favourite. The 85GM has a very nice image, but we will exchange it as soon as Sony makes a refresh. For macro we use the 90 and 24 Probe and for super long shots we also love the 200-600G. In the past we had the Tamrons 17-28 and 28-75 and the Samyang 85 1.4. Loved all three of them. But with the new class of primes Sony has been pushing out we are just gushing at the performance.

[@JesseDriftwood]

24-105 is such an underrated focal length.

[@Levi_Allen]

I was picturing “what would Jesse say” about each one of my different choices 😂

[@ondrejjanoska660]

Lens what live on my camera 90% of the time 😊

[@jokwonpope1561]

Hello Jesse!

[@natepotter6911]

lol

[@danielcabrera5547]

I just got a RF 24-105mm. I can't believe how versatile those focal lengths are. I never thought I'd be saying that. this is coming for a person who LOVES prime lenses. #greatvideo

[@TrentonPalmer]

I just bought a light from Lume Cube because of you! I expect 24/7 customer support directly from you if I have any issues since you recommended it 😜, it does actually look super handy

[@Levi_Allen]

As long as I’m in cell service you can call anytime 😁

[@MusaonYT]

Dude this whole video felt more like a professional documentary. Looking forward to seeing more reviews like this from you. Awesome work.

[@mogmaximus]

this guys van is the most badass thing I think I've ever seen, this guy knows how to live life

[@TimothyGordon]

Levi, I’d love to see your colour grading process - your video work looks truly fantastic: gorgeous colours, low contrast with that matte look, I love it.

[@jarlfrederik7573]

Watching Levi traveling around in his van is making me reevaluate my life choices

[@Oregonbackyardhomestead]

I never thought of using my Sony 20mm 1.8 for vlogging. Always used my Tam 17-28. So I tried it today. We have a new winner. Thanks!!!

[@Levi_Allen]

Great to hear!

[@maxlerner10]

The 55mm f1.8 shots on the "hoverboards" are truly awesome. Well done.

[@BlessedAssurance949]

I love how you cover the interaction of the gear with the realities of adventure life. The combination definitely makes this channel much more interesting.

[@MadHatterMedia]

I love seeing those outdoor shots with a filmic grade on them. I think that it just makes it look so cool

[@ashleesayles2032]

The 24-105 f4 is one of my favorite lenses for the Sony system - especially for video. It's so versatile.

[@JohnDennery]

The 24-105 and 20mm 1.8 combo looks amazing. I've been wanting a 16-35 for awhile now but that 20mm just absolutely destroys both of Sony's zooms in terms of image quality, price, and size. Gonna be my next piece of kit for sure! Great video, I really appreciate all of the sample footage with each lens.

[@BasNunnikhoven]

Agree. Had many shoots with both the G master 24-70 + 70-200 and the 70 -105. and I liked the extra mm's on the 24-105 a lot. And if the area is a dark place to shoot, I simply charge €200,- extra for the shoot to rent the G master lenses

[@RestlessChildcz]

This was EXTREMELY useful. I am looking to change my entire camera gear setup & i am completely lost and this was SO HELPFUL. Doing god's work, thank you.

[@VishwasRavindran92]

Sony 24-105 f4 "G" lens user here pared with Sony A7III. It does all the job from portraits , products and weddings!

[@keith-knittel]

I was really going back and forth about the sony 20mm 1.8 and the Tamron 17-28 2.8. I went with the Sony 20mm and have been loving it for its small size, fast aperture, and wide focal length! Also, have the 24-105 and has been a fantastic all-around lens

[@WillStinton]

I LOVE that 55mm 1.8, I use it on gimbals for client work all the time and I may never upgrade to a “better” 50mm

[@davepruitt2739]

Outstanding review. Have been riding the fence 24-105. You state a greT case for it. Thanks

[@abehjhakibuuka71]

I completely agree with you about the 24-105 - especially for shooting outdoors, indoors not so much, not under natural lighting.

[@Eric.Estrada]

Perfect timing for this video! I just switched over to the Sony FX3 from Red Komodo and have found myself trying to figure out what glass to go with.

[@Levi_Allen]

It’s a tough decision for sure. Obviously you can get good results from most any lens, it’s just a matter of which ones haha

[@stevewelsh__]

How are you finding the switch? Anything you miss from the Komodo that the Sony doesn't do particularly well? And does the 'look' compare? (sorry for questions, i just put a downpayment on an FX3 myself!)

[@Eric.Estrada]

@@stevewelsh__ to be honest, I love the FX3. The "look" is almost exactly the same. Now, this could be that I am shooting Sigma Art glass on the FX3, which was also my favorite on Komodo. I ran many Tokina Cine lenses on Komodo, but always found myself reaching for the Sigma Art 18-35. The Menu's on Komodo are a thousand times easier to use, I loved the stop lights for exposure. The screen on FX3 is tiny, menu is difficult to navigate. But the camera is half the price (as a ready to shoot rig) and the FX3 is much better suited for my style of run & gun shooting in the outdoors. the image is cleaner, less noisey than Komodo. Main thing I miss though, is having shutter angle instead of shutter speed.

[@stevewelsh__]

@@Eric.Estrada thanks for the detailed reply! It’s comforting to know that these 2 are quite comparable but like you I need the camera in an instant for my shoots (product videos mainly). I was worried about the heavy digital look both the FX3 and A7Siii come out of the box with but I’ve seen a few videos now where I could swear they were a cinema rig. Lens wise I’m going with the sigma 24-70 so that should be super versatile! Thanks again :)

[@AM1media]

@eric definitely consider the 24to105 G Its great with that sensor. I use it on my a7siii and now find it hard to justify buying the 24to70 GM.

[@svenstreet]

I just bought the 70-200 f4 Macro; it is small and not heavy for a 70-200 in combination with the 24-105 f4 it is a very versatile combo!

[@AJGalecki]

The 20g f/1.8 is the best lens Ive ever used (I sold my 24 GM for it). I use it for wedding films, photo shoots, vlogs, real estate, everything.

[@JamesBreitenstein]

this doesn‘t make any sense, 24mm 1.4 looks so much better

[@karim1485]

@@JamesBreitenstein I haven't tried the 20mm yet but I love my 24mm so much, I wouldn't go any wider

[@TechnoBabble]

@@JamesBreitenstein "Looks so much better"? Doesn't it have more fringing, a farther minimum focusing distance, more focus breathing, and a weird green fringing on out of focus highlights? Sure, maybe it's a tiny bit sharper, but it's also significantly more expensive and heavier.

[@JamesBreitenstein]

@@TechnoBabble it ways 400g, do you even lift? 24 at 1.4 look MUCH more cinematic than 20 1.8, test it yourself. Bokeh difference is hugh

[@AJGalecki]

@@JamesBreitenstein I disagree, and Ive owned both lenses for quite a while. I’d choose 20 all day

[@AfricanSunProductions]

Awesome video, thank you! I have the 20mm f/1.8 in a cart right now!

[@RyanSotelo]

The 20mm 1.8 is one of the best lenses I’ve ever owned 🔥

[@raksh9]

I appreciate your approach which involves getting maximum versatility in as small and light a package as possible. A 24-105 with a fast 50 and 85 takes care of most photographic and video situations.

[@KevinFedde]

Awesome video! I went with the 24-105 f/4 and the 70-200 f/4 also due to that huge weight difference, as well as the 20 f/1.8 and 85 f/1.8. Really happy with how my setup is working for what I do!

[@robbie154]

2.8 to 4 is so minimal for "bokeh". The 24-105 compared to a 24-70 is such a superior lens especially with the IS. The extra stop of light is less important with the high iso capability these days. If you really need low light power go with a prime.

[@TechnoBabble]

No matter how good your camera is, you still get half the noise with a lens that's a stop faster...

[@OniRikimaru]

So helpful and great to see a creator talking about renting. Feels nice to see a more real talk about why and where to put your money than spending till you’re poor. Good job.

[@Frazec_Atsjenkov]

I think you made an admirable case for opening up lens choices. That more expensive is not always better. And that lens design inherently comes with some interesting, and often conflicting, choices. The perfect lens does not exist. And we should remain open to all options. Very nicely done!

[@dylanjohndickerson]

I can't believe I'm just seeing this, Levi! Awesome overview. I actually picked up the 24-105 recently after becoming frustrated with the amount of dust I was getting in my Sigma 24-70 and I've been loving it so far.

[@Levi_Allen]

Thank you thank you! I love the 24-105

[@BehindTheNeedle]

Levi! Just rewatched this ‘older’ video and there is still so much good advice. I just wish Sony will make a new and lighter version of the 24-105 that would fit my smaller Sony A7C2. Thanks Levi.

[@Levi_Allen]

If they did I think they would have to remove the lens stabilization, or make it f/5.6. I would look into the 20-80 if you want a lighter lens

[@BehindTheNeedle]

@@Levi_Allen Thanks Levi! With the new cameras having better in-body stabilization, I can live with a lens without. Hope Sony Santa will listen!

[@BeckiandChris]

You made a great case for the 24-105, I could see myself replacing my 24-70 with that lens for a more versatile kit. Great vid as always!

[@Levi_Allen]

I thought of you a bunch when talking about the 20mm. I know you love your 24mm so dang much : )

[@Jasondeheus]

I’m in the same boat 🚣‍♀️. I find on my FX3 the 24-70 leaves me wanting more punch.

[@BeckiandChris]

@@Levi_Allen the 20mm looks incredible!!

[@nightdonutstudio]

but remember for video we can use 4k to crop or use apsc mode/clear image zoom. so even with 70mm, you will be able to get a lot more reach if we doing video. and honestly 105mm is not that much closer than 70mm. If I am wanting one lens that really can go from wide to telephoto, I would pick the tarmon 28-200 f2.8-5.6.

[@Levi_Allen]

@@nightdonutstudio I cover this in the video actually ; ) cropping 4K that is. As far as the 28-200. It isn’t wide enough. Especially with active stabilization turned on. That 4mm makes a big difference for me. And 105 cropped to look like 150-200 is a lot easier than not being wide enough in the first place. It is a great lens, but doesn’t cover the wide to tele photo that I personally want

[@FloriTravels]

This has to be the best A7siii footage I've ever seen!

[@HaydenBuchanan]

This video by far is the most clear and well presented answer to buying lenses on the Sony System, Thank you for that

[@chazlyle41]

My 21mm was by far my most used focal length on my trip to Jerusalem/Jordan etc. Perfect for close up crowds, markets, etc. Underrated focal length!

[@tonyskyviews]

What an awesome and informative video! Seeing this 3 years after its release and it´s still up to date! Congrats! Loved it and am your follower! ❤

[@David-mk4it]

Love your comment on your reasons for not owning f2.8 lens. I learned something valuable today. Tx.

[@CNMTCFilms]

Yessir! The Levi I came for is BACK!🔥 (not saying I don't like the Van stuff, but I came because of you filmmaking✌🏼)

[@rezjrprod]

24-105 has been my workhorse on my canon for YEARS..I just switched to Sony yesterday Im gonna get the same with Sony..Even with canon version on my MarkIV it was amazing

[@BoardArchive]

Levi your audio in front of the van in the wind sounded great! What deadcat are you using on that lav? I'm looking for a lav solution that works while snowboarding

[@darkstormie2761]

Just found you, glad I did! ..your flow resonates with me ! Just purchased a A74 and Tamron 35-150 and wow, coming from a A9 over 1 year ago...what a great upgrade for me! I Will be filling the gap with the 20mm you used! TY

[@stormycatmink]

I can vouch for the 55mm/1.8. I don't use it a lot because of the kind of shots I tend to do, but every time I've used it, when looking back at the photos, they just blow my mind. I can always pick them out of a stack of images. There's just something about the quality of the images compared to other lenses I have. It's hard to describe better than that.

[@skuggie7939]

Wow, really? For me I can oick them out because they are beyond horrible. Horrible abboration not even photoshop or lightroom can fix and so blurry. Horrible!

[@HaydenBuchanan]

Back watching this again and realising how much this informed my buying habits Now have a 24-105 + 20mm in my kit

[@redaxnela]

Finally a real world opinion on one of the most asked questions on any YT filmmakers chan … thank you for this one, so good and honest content.

[@overdigitize]

your coloring is unreal. do you have a video talking about your process?

[@MrAtsyhere]

I settled on a Sony full frame because I had a lot of glass that fit my Minolta camera from years gone by. Although almost all of them are manual focus and lack stabilization I make up for it with a device called a tripod. I love you work by the way. I was getting a "Vibe" when you were showing clips of that one wheeler rolling down the streets. I am an ex-Hamiltonian that has lived in cottage country (North of the Muskokas) for a dozen years now. One shot rolled past "Jackson Square" and I knew that you were in the Hammer. That explained the vibe that I was getting.

[@A1Bokeh]

I had a similar conversation with a more experienced videographer... He basically explained not every shot needs to be depth of field super cinematic... its like get the shots you need mix in those super cinematic shots and throw it all together its most important to get the shot you need

[@ravenreveals]

this was SO helpful! i've been searching around for an upgrade from my sony zvi and decided on the sony a7iv, but had no idea what lens to get. this provided so much clarity thank you

[@RGMGFitness]

Levi, those shots of Jesse on the OneWheel (3:28) shot on the Sony FE 20mm F1.8G, just look so good! Looks like an awesome lens. Thanks for the great info.! 👍👍

[@ColtCapperrune]

Really great video!! The only counter argument I have to going with F4 lenses is if you shoot a lot indoors. Since pretty much every test shot you showed in this video was outdoors, or with the 1.8 lenses, I think F4 is perfectly adequate for outdoors, but not nighttime, or indoors. Thanks again for the video!

[@Levi_Allen]

What camera do you use?

[@nightdonutstudio]

It is not an issue if your camera has second ISO like a7sIII and the new a74.

[@4xoverland]

Your shooting style is very much like mine and I'm rethinking all my 2.8 lenses mainly due to weight. Thanks for your insight. New subscriber.

[@SamuelJamesVideos]

Your colors are amazing. It's bright and vibrant without looking goofy which is an extremely difficult look for me to get. I'm really impressed. Have you done a "how I color grade" video?

[@HamedAlgabbani]

BRO THIS WAS SO HELPFUL YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND HOW MUCH YOU HELPED ME!

[@gonewiththewynns]

Thanks and perfect timing. We’re upgrading some of our lenses and you totally answered some of my questions. Great stuff as always. 🤙🏼

[@Levi_Allen]

I’d love to hear about what you end up choosing!

[@defylifeadventure]

Would have thought you are too busy with the boat to thing about that. Good luck

[@MrSmoothvideos]

A7 IV with Sigma 24-70mm F2.8, APS-C crop mode gives you up to 105mm at F4 equivalent. Perfect set-up. I also am yet too see convincing evidence that OSS + IBIS, is better than just IBIS - or at least for wide-angle?

[@lennartvolkaerts1873]

I am not actualy looking for a lens or anything like that, I just love to watch your videos. I'm not a filmmaker, but I really like learning more about it. thank you for always making such interessting and well explained videos.

[@thelensguy6050]

For the 55mm try an extension tube with communication , it will let you focus closer

[@thetianaolivia]

I've been searching for a new lens for my Sony, and this has been the most helpful video I've come across! Thank you!

[@Levi_Allen]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Households1234]

Hello current great video thank you may I please ask what Lavalier system are you using? I can see your shirt fluttering in the wind blowing and I don’t hear any of the wind noise. Thank you.

[@GoodGuysMedia]

I'm hooked as soon as I heard what you were saying and then saw the 20mm 1.8 footage. I shoot 35 1.4 and 15mm 2.0 but neither have IS.... I haven't finished watching as I stopped to drop this comment but you sold me on the 20mm bro. Thank you!!

[@denver_video]

Thank you Levi! Starting with my Canon 6D back around 2013 the 24-105 F4 lens has definitely proven as #1 overall lens for full frame video. Just picked up an FX6 and I appreciate the coverage of 20mm F1.8 thanks again! TJ

[@theresolutemind9538]

Very successful video. I own the 24-105mm as well as the complete Batis line, 18, 25, 40, 85, 135. My a7IV is on order.

[@jonahchabaniuk9165]

Levi, we did SALTS together, gotta be going back 12 or more years ago now. Super helpful video thanks. I'm happy with the nifty fifty on our a74. I'm going to pick up a 24 105 f4 now thanks to you. Hope you've been doing well. Your content is amazing and so well done

[@jdawg63000]

I rocked the 18-105 f4 OSS on my a6500 forever. That lens is absolute fire. I really like your content, I'm new here. thank you.

[@NaturesAlwaysRight]

Really helpful advice on how to balance the pros and cons thank you!

[@Emresinho]

Almost a hollywood movie, really liked this video production ! Great and inspiring

[@felippeMOWE]

My friend, I was looking for lenses recommendations after getting my new A7IV and I couldn't be more happy finding your video on the topic. I just got my 24-105mm 4.0. and it's exactly what I was looking for for my travels :)

[@alantay9409]

Excellent ideas. I just love your practical use of lens without going bankrupt and yet get the job done! Thank you for sharing.

[@jessicatrinity1075]

I have heard the same thing about these lenses before! It's so helpful to see footage examples as well. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience! :)

[@Skapo]

The examples you gave comparing the 24-105 vs 24-70 showed what seems to be a clear cut sharpness difference in favor of the 24-70. Just looking in on those beard hairs & shirt textures. Even with KZbin conpression I can see a definitive difference. Am I missing something? Seems like the 24-70 is a distinct winner for image quality here.

[@Levi_Allen]

You aren’t missing anything. Yes there is a a sharpness difference, I say as much. Re watch the video if your don’t track with what I describe as my priorities.

[@Levi_Allen]

In the tight shot directly after the 24-70 shot. The focus plane does seem to also be slightly off Nic’s face. So maybe that’s causing a more drastic disparity in what your noticing if you pause at those two exact moments and peep in.

[@derbagger22]

I'm running Canon and I mostly shoot stills. But, i love your content and the real talk of what someone actually needs over wants...

[@AntisocialBY]

Very cool video! Personal 2 cents - photo and video do differ, so for a photographer such kit won't work. After years of doing photography as a hobby I've come to a conclusion that the best kit is two zooms (16-35 Sony (which I want to replace my 24-70) and 70-180 Tamron) and two primes ( haven't finalized my picks yet, but at the moment I'm leaning towards 35 mm and 85mm). If budget is unlimited and Gear Acquisition Syndrome is not a problem - I would add 20m, 135mm and 200-600. And I wish A7R4 had the same stabilization as the S-series... Again, thanks for the video, great job!!

[@Markyroson]

I was just thinking the same. GM series lenses are more tailored to R series cameras and higher resolutions.

[@toddysurcharge771]

@@Markyroson yup! 24 megapixel sensors are wasted on high end lenses

[@dushyantbhatt9345]

Your colour grading is amazing... Please do make a video of colour grading work flow 🙏🏽 ... You are by far sensible youtubers out there .. thanks for making the video

[@mensiphotography]

Fantastic video that for a change focus on real life experience and budget. Not the “GM or die way” ! Thanks a lot for confirming that I should swap my 16-35. Finally, at the end when you show the 16-35 f/2.8 it says 2.6 in the corner haha is that a new version 😂

[@minimalistmusician]

Thank you so much for this!!! I'm moving to sony and in my head assumed I needed a 16-35 but 99% of the time I'm using it at a fixed focal length anyways! 20mm and 24-105 is perfect!

[@mikekomorous]

You have some serious color grading skills. I’m impressed.

[@Thiago-VidalAquino]

28mmf2, 50mm(I have a pair of vintage minoltas 1.7 and 1.4) and 85mm1.8 and that will do it for me, most of the time. Adding up a zoom lens like 28-200mm would be the cherry on top.

[@YoungHimalayas]

Nice and very INFORMATIVE... Thanx a LOT. How do you color grade your Videos and what software you use SIR?

[@TheElusivePanda]

Agree with you on 24-105mm, maybe as the first lens anyone gets. For 90% of my commercial work that's all I use.

[@scuba_lens]

I have the 20 mm, the 55 mm and the 24-105 on my A7SIII and they're all amazing- really like them!

[@DavidBluetile]

since youre rolling around on a one wheel I figured id ask.... are you familiar with shooting skateboarding? when filming "lines" ( a lot of tricks in a row) skateboarders typically use fisheye lenses. if you were going to throw a fisheye in your bag what would it be? clearly stabilization is super important.

[@PrimalOutdoors]

Very informative Levy. I have the a7s III and I have been running the Tamron line 17-28, 28-75 and 75-180 its been working well for me but I would be interested in that 20mm 1.8 you showed for low light. Jason

[@glssjg]

I have sold all my lens and have been rocking the 24-105 for general event work. the tamron 35-150 looks interesting but I don't want to lose the low end

[@brittmurray9818]

Thanks. Handy video - made me happy about my lens choices. Quick question - what kind of van is that? Looks really nice.

[@Wadesez]

Thanks this has been super helpful, especially 17:36 where you explained the drawbacks to the 16-35mm f/4 and recommended the Tamron. I've watched several reviews to try and make a decision and this sealed the deal, Tamrom 17-28mm it is!

[@Levi_Allen]

I’ve recently got the tamron and it’s really really good

[@joseluisruiz3789]

Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us. I'm starting to take making videos for my youtube channel more seriously and no longer want to use my Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra and want to use better quality cameras and lense. I really appreciate it.

[@EthanSmith]

Now that's high quality advertising. Solid job

[@efimborisov8545]

it is very good information, but amaizing picture! which picture profile did you use??

[@matthewfinnigan3862]

I always like having a good versatile zoom and then a fast cheaper prime lens for when I need it

[@milaromans1901]

Thanks, Levi, for this informative and simply beautiful video! Wondering how you archived this ts mesmerizing softness? Ist mist filters or in post?thnx

[@PhotoTrekr]

When I was younger, I would take all my gear on every trip including big heavy lenses. These days my travel lenses consist of the 16-35mm GM, 24-105mm G, and 70-200mm f4 G. I mainly shoot landscapes. If I know I'll be shooting wildlife, I'll take the 100-400mm GM instead of the 70-200. These lenses cover everything I shoot. The rest stays at home.

[@MaeveTremayne]

I know this is an old video but when you were talking about placing a filter on the lens, have you looked at SPC Sensor filters? They go between the lens and the sensor.

[@lukebohemian]

Thanks for the advice levi!! 24-105 was the first 'serious' lens I got for our video, love it's adaptability!

[@adamclotfelter9875]

Excellent roundup; thank you! What was the mic you were using in the final shot? Seemed to handle the wind, amazingly

[@schruppt]

This is seriously some of the best most practical help I have ever found in a video. Subscribed. Thank you!

[@nachojr99]

I have the a7S III and only two lenses atm. They are the 24-105 F4 and the 20mm F1.8, and I fully agree with what you said about them.

[@bradl2636]

Thanks. I buy f4 zooms and f0.90-f2.0 primes only. I have found f1.8 to be the value sweet-spot for primes on Sony mount. And f2 the value sweet spot on Nikon F mount and Leica M mount. So 👍 on this video.

[@adam.adventurenz]

Such a good review and brilliant, thoughtful advice. So glad I stumbled on this 2 years later 😂

[@EatSleepVan]

Aww I love my 16-35mm f4, I used it on most of my van channel videos! I too have the 55mm 1.8 but don't use it a ton unless I need lower light capabilities. And the 70-200 f4 I use quite a bit, did you consider that one at all? Surprisingly small and light.

[@yynailsupply]

I agree!! We use the 20 mm 1.8 and 55 mm 1.8 zeiss!!!