Seeking Advice on Choosing the Best Lens for Low-Light Videography

I've been working with the Sony A7S series for a while now, and I can share some insights on great lenses for low-light videography. For the Sony A7S III, a prime lens with a wide aperture is ideal. I'd recommend considering the Sony 35mm f/1.4 GM or the Zeiss Batis 25mm f/2. Both are fantastic for low-light conditions and are compatible with your camera. The Sony 35mm f/1.4 GM is particularly great for videography due to its fast and quiet autofocus. If you're open to manual focus lenses, the Sigma 35mm f/1.2 Art is another excellent option, though it might require more effort to adjust during shoots. Keep in mind that these lenses are on the pricier side, but they're worth it for the quality they deliver.

The Sony 35mm f/1.4 GM is a solid choice, but if you're looking to save some cash without sacrificing too much performance, the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG DN Art is a fantastic alternative. It’s sharper than the Sony in some cases and still handles low light beautifully. Plus, it’s way more affordable.

If you need something wider, the Sony 24mm f/1.4 GM is incredible but expensive. For a budget-friendly option, the Samyang AF 24mm f/1.8 is surprisingly good—autofocus is decent, and the image quality is solid for the price.

Honestly, though, if you’re shooting a lot of low-light video, the Sony 50mm f/1.2 GM might be worth the splurge. It’s a beast in dim conditions, and the bokeh is gorgeous. But if you’re on a tight budget, the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art (DSLR version with an adapter) is a great performer for the money.

Just make sure whatever you pick has good autofocus if you’re doing run-and-gun work. Manual focus lenses are great for controlled shoots, but they can be a pain when you’re moving quickly.

Oh, I love this topic! Low-light videography is where the magic happens, and the A7S III is already a beast in those conditions. I’d lean toward the Sigma 35mm f/1.2 Art if you’re okay with manual focus—it’s a dreamy lens with insane low-light performance, and the bokeh is like something out of a fairy tale. But if autofocus is a must, the Sony 35mm f/1.4 GM is the way to go, even if it’s pricier.

That said, don’t sleep on the Samyang AF 35mm f/1.4. It’s a hidden gem—sharp, fast, and way cheaper than the GM. I’ve used it for night shoots, and it holds up surprisingly well. If you need wider, the Sony 24mm f/1.4 GM is stunning, but yeah, the price is brutal.

And honestly, if you’re shooting mostly video, consider the Sony 50mm f/1.2 GM. It’s not as versatile for general use, but in low light? It’s unreal. The Sigma 50mm f/1.4 is a great budget alternative, but the autofocus can be hit or miss.

Just don’t cheap out on glass—bad lenses ruin great cameras. Trust me, I’ve cried over soft footage before.

Thanks