If you’re interested in shooting high-quality video, you need the best Canon lenses for videography. You need a lens with sharp optics, decent low-light performance, and fast, accurate, and smooth AF support. Thankfully, all eight Canon lenses in this article deliver where it counts.
Our top pick is the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM, chosen for its exceptional low-light performance and depth of field control. It’s also a versatile prime with sharp optics.
But if that’s not the videography lens you’re after, keep reading to see seven more fantastic Canon lenses for videography.
What Is the Best Canon Lens for Videography?
When selecting the best Canon lens for videography, you need to consider key features like low-light performance, depth of field, image stabilization, and weight. Our list prioritizes lenses that excel in these areas, ensuring clear, smooth footage for whether you’re shooting documentaries or feature films.
- Exceptional low-light shooting with f/1.2 aperture
- Natural perspective for versatile photography genres
- Superior sharpness and minimal aberrations
- Durable, weather-sealed L series construction
- Quick, precise autofocus suitable for videography
- Covers wide to short telephoto focal lengths
- Constant f/2.8 aperture for consistent exposure
- Versatile for events, portraits, and landscapes
- Fast, accurate autofocus with Nano USM technology
- Robust, weather-sealed construction for reliability
- Ultra-wide to wide versatility for expansive shots
- Constant f/2.8 aperture enhances low-light performance
- Ideal for landscapes, architecture, and interiors
- Image stabilization for sharp handheld images
- Durable, weather-sealed build for outdoor reliability
- F/1.2 aperture for unparalleled low-light performance
- Defocus Smoothing for dreamy bokeh effects
- Ideal for professional portrait and fashion photography
- Superior optical clarity and color accuracy
- Robust, weather-sealed construction for reliability
- Versatile zoom range for diverse shooting scenarios
- Constant f/4 aperture across all focal lengths
- Image stabilization for sharp handheld shots
- L-series build quality ensures durability and reliability
- Fast, silent autofocus ideal for both photos and videos
- Rapid f/2.8 aperture for excellent low-light performance
- Compact design enhances portability for on-the-go shooting
- Optical Image Stabilization ensures sharp images in any light
- Exceptional autofocus speed with Dual Nano USM motors
- Robust, weather-sealed construction for reliability in harsh conditions
- 24-105mm range covers wide to telephoto shots
- Constant f/4 aperture for consistent exposure control
- Image Stabilization compensates for handheld shake
- L-series quality ensures sharp, durable performance
- Versatile for landscapes, portraits, and everyday photography
- Wide f/1.4 aperture for superior low-light performance
- Exceptional sharpness and optical clarity across the frame
- Blue Spectrum Refractive optics reduce chromatic aberrations
- Durable, weather-sealed construction for outdoor reliability
- Fast, silent autofocus ideal for both photography and videography
Our Favorite Canon Lenses for Videography
Let’s take a closer look at our favorite Canon lenses for videography. From prime lenses with low light prowess to versatile zoom lenses, there’s a lens for every type of videography project. Explore these options to find the perfect fit for your creative vision.
1. Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
950 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.2
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
50 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
 |
The Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM is a brilliant prime lens for videographers seeking top-notch image quality and performance.
Its wide f/1.2 aperture is perfect for low light conditions, allowing videographers to capture clear, detailed footage even in dim environments.
This aperture also creates a shallow depth of field, making it easy to isolate subjects from their backgrounds. This technique is often used to draw the viewer’s focus in narrative filmmaking.
The lens lacks image stabilization, which could be a problem if you’re shooting handheld. Camera shake isn’t so pronounced with a standard 50mm focal length. But we still recommend using a camera gimbal for extra stability.
It is fairly heavy, weighing 2 lb (950 g). The size is compact enough for any decent camera backpack. But the weight is something to consider if you’re shooting long-form video from hand.
Compared to the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM, which offers a range of focal lengths and built-in image stabilization, the RF 50mm f/1.2L USM stands out for its superior low light performance and depth of field control, thanks to its wider aperture.
The Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM a great option for videographers who prioritize image quality and creative control. The optical quality is exceptional, as is the low-light performance. It isn’t cheap, but it’s worth every penny for serious videographers.
2. Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
900 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
24-70 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
 |
The Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is a brilliant standard prime lens. Providing more flexibility than the previous prime lens, the quality and versatility make it a top choice for videographers.
Its zoom range from wide-angle to short-telephoto is perfect for a variety of scenes, from expansive landscapes to detailed close-ups.
The constant f/2.8 aperture helps in low light, giving you consistent exposure throughout the zoom range. You can also create a shallow depth of field at the widest apertures, giving you more creative control.
This lens also comes with built-in image stabilization. Reducing the effects of camera shake, it gives you smoother footage when shooting from hand. It also gives you more freedom with your exposure settings, especially in low light.
Optical sharpness is another key strength. Aspherical and Ultra-low Dispersion (ED) elements reduce distortion, ensuring footage is free from distortion. And Canon’s Air Sphere coating eliminates glare and vignetting.
It’s another heavy lens, weighting in at 1.9 lb (900g). But the build quality is excellent, which includes weather sealing. You can work outdoors in tough conditions without worrying about the lens.
The Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is one of Canon’s most versatile lenses. The quality and performance make it the best zoom lens for videography.
3. Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
840 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
15-35 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM is the best wide-angle zoom for filmmakers. Its ultra-wide zoom range is perfect for capturing vast landscapes or tight interior spaces.
The f/2.8 aperture helps in low light. It’s a constant max aperture, so you don’t lose any stops zooming in or out. The fast aperture also benefits depth of field control.
This lens is especially useful for videography involving architecture and landscapes, where the lack of distortion at wide angles really shines through.
Weighing about 1.8 lb (840g), it’s relatively easy to handle. The built-in image stabilization is a big advantage, reducing the need for a tripod so you get smoother shots from shooting from hand.
Compared to prime lenses, the RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM offers more flexibility without sacrificing image quality. Its construction is also durable and designed to withstand challenging shooting environments.
For videographers looking for a wide-angle lens that performs well in diverse situations, the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM is the best option. Its combination of wide aperture, image stabilization, and sharpness across the frame makes it a popular option for professional videography.
4. Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
1195 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.2
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
85 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS is a beautiful portrait lens that videographers love. This lens is particularly good for close-up shots. Thanks to its fixed 85mm focal length, it offers a flattering perspective for portrait-style compositions.
Its optical performance includes edge-to-edge sharpness and minimal chromatic aberration, making it a valuable tool for professional video recording.
Its f/1.2 aperture is perfect for low-light environments and creates a shallow depth of field, isolating subjects beautifully. The Defocus Smoothing (DS) element enhances the bokeh effect, adding a cinematic quality to your footage.
Weighing in at 2.6 lb (1.1 kg), it’s on the heavier side. You might want a tripod or camera stabilizer for this one.
Despite lacking built-in image stabilization, the wide aperture allows for faster shutter speeds, helping to mitigate camera shake. For videographers focused on portrait and detail shots in their storytelling, the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS is very useful, offering unmatched image quality and aesthetic control.
Its build and design are in line with Canon’s L-series standards, ensuring durability and reliability in various shooting conditions.
5. Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
700 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
24-105 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
With a wide zoom range, constant aperture, and stabilization, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is one of the most versatile lenses for photographers. This flexibility is crucial for capturing a variety of scenes without the need to switch lenses, making it ideal for dynamic shooting environments.
While its constant f/4 aperture is not the widest, the lens still performs well in various lighting conditions. It provides consistent exposure across the zoom range, so you don’t lose any stops when zoomed in.
Equipped with image stabilization, this lens significantly reduces camera shake. This helps you work without a tripod or stabilizer, especially when you’re working at the telephoto end.
It strikes a good balance between portability and high-quality build, which is expected from Canon’s L-series. The autofocus is quick and reliable, ensuring subjects remain sharp in the frame even when they move around the scene.
The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is a great all-in-one lens solution, allowing you to shoot different types of scenes with just one lens. It combines the convenience of a zoom with the performance and durability needed for professional work.
6. Canon RF 70-200mm F/2.8L IS USM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
1070 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
70-200 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon RF 70-200mm F/2.8L IS USM is the best telephoto zoom for videographers. The 70-200mm lens is one of the most popular in photography, with its excellent magnification and versatile zoom range. Videographers are also turning to this type of lens for outdoor work.
This lens is particularly useful for capturing detailed close-ups and creating cinematic effects in narrative filmmaking.
Its f/2.8 aperture is ideal for low-light conditions, giving you consistent exposure from 70mm to 200mm. It also gives you depth of field control, allowing for a smooth bokeh background when using the wider apertures.
Built-in image stabilization is a godsend, especially when working at the 200mm end, where it’s more sensitive to camera shake. It gives you more exposure control in low light and reduces shake when shooting from hand.
Weighing around 2.3 lb (1 kg), it balances well on gimbals and rigs, making it manageable for dynamic shooting.
For videographers who cover events, sports, or wildlife, this lens is very useful, providing the flexibility to capture distant subjects without sacrificing image quality. The Canon RF 70-200mm F/2.8L IS USM‘s robust build and weather sealing also mean it can withstand challenging shooting conditions.
7. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
795 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
24-105 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM is a superb all-in-one zoom lens for videographers, offering a wide to telephoto zoom range that’s perfect for a variety of shooting scenarios. It’s the best zoom lens for videographers using a DSLR camera for video.
All-in-one lenses are often associated with bad optical quality. But that’s definitely not the case with this lens, with high quality glass elements minimizing chromatic aberration and distortion. You get crisp shots at all points in the zoom range.
Its constant f/4 aperture, while not the widest, provides consistent exposure control across the zoom range, which is crucial for video work.
The built-in image stabilization is another key feature, significantly reducing camera shake and making handheld shooting smoother.
This lens is relatively lightweight for its class, making it manageable for on-the-go shooting. The autofocus is quick and silent, ensuring that subjects stay sharp without distracting noise. Its robust build and weather sealing also mean it can withstand the rigors of outdoor shooting, making it a reliable choice for professional videography projects.
The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM is the best choice if versatility is the top priority.
8. Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM
| Brand |
Brand
Canon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
760 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.4
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
35 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens is a prime choice for videographers seeking exceptional low-light performance and a cinematic depth of field. It’s the perfect prime lens for those shooting with a Canon DSLR camera.
The fixed 35mm focal length offers a versatile field of view that’s wide enough for environmental shots yet avoids the distortion of wider lenses, perfect for street scenes and documentary work.
Its f/1.4 aperture not only excels in dim settings but also provides the shallow depth of field essential for isolating subjects, making it ideal for narrative filmmaking and interviews.
The lens’s fast and silent USM autofocus keeps subjects sharp without drawing attention, a crucial feature for capturing live action.
It weighs about 1.6 lb (760 g) and isn’t too heavy or bulky. The build quality is excellent, so it’s worth the extra weight in your camera backpack.
A prime lens of the highest quality, the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM is a great choice for videographers.
Conclusion: The Best Canon Lenses for Videography
The article provided a detailed overview of the best Canon Lenses for Videography, highlighting their key features, strengths. It covers a range of lenses suitable for various videography needs, from low light performance and shallow depth of field to versatility and image stabilization.
Our top choice is the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM, standing out for its exceptional image quality in low light. It offers a perfect blend of performance and creative control that’s perfect for videography. But as we’ve seen, Canon users have plenty of choice when it comes to the best lenses for videography.
