10 Best Lens For Sports Videography (2024 Update)

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When it comes to capturing sports moments on video, having the right lens is crucial. Whether you are filming a professional game or your child's little league match, the right lens can make all the difference in the quality of your footage. However, with so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which lens to choose. Here are five key points to consider when looking for a lens for sports videography:

1. Focal length: The focal length of a lens determines the angle of view and the magnification of the image. For sports videography, a lens with a focal length between 70mm to 200mm is ideal, as it allows you to capture close-up shots of the action without being too close to the players.

2. Aperture: The aperture of a lens determines the amount of light that enters the lens, which affects the depth of field and the ability to shoot in low light conditions. A lens with a wide aperture (e.g. f/2.8 or wider) is ideal for sports videography, as it allows you to capture fast-moving action with sharp focus.

3. Image stabilization: Sports videography often involves handheld shooting, which can lead to shaky footage. A lens with image stabilization technology can help to reduce camera shake and produce smoother footage.

4. Autofocus: Fast-moving sports require fast autofocus capabilities. Look for a lens with fast and accurate autofocus to ensure that you capture every moment of the action.

5. Compatibility: Make sure that the lens you choose is compatible with your camera body. Not all lenses are compatible with all camera models, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase.

By keeping these key points in mind, you can choose the right lens for your sports videography needs and capture those unforgettable moments on the field or court.

10 Best Lens For Sports Videography

1. Canon Rf100-400mm F5.6-8 Is Usm

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is a compact, lightweight and high-quality telephoto zoom lens designed for photographers who require a versatile zoom range. This lens is compatible with Canon's RF mount, which is optimized for full-frame mirrorless cameras, providing superior optical performance with every shot.

One of the key features of this lens is the Optical Image Stabilizer, which provides up to 5.5 stops of shake correction, allowing photographers to capture sharp and clear images even in low light conditions or while shooting handheld. Additionally, when paired with EOS R series cameras featuring In-Body Image Stabilizer (IBIS), this lens can provide up to 6 stops of shake correction, ensuring that every image is sharp and blur-free.

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM also boasts a minimum focusing distance of 2.89 feet at 200mm and a maximum magnification of 0.41x at 400mm, making it ideal for capturing close-up shots of distant subjects such as wildlife, sports events, or action shots.

The lens also features Canon's Nano USM autofocus system, which provides high-speed, smooth and quiet autofocus, making it perfect for capturing fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the lens features a customizable control ring that can be used to adjust various camera settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, providing photographers with greater control over their shots.

In terms of design, the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is both lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around and use for extended periods of time. The lens also features a dust and moisture-resistant construction, ensuring that it can be used in a variety of weather conditions.

Overall, the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is a high-quality telephoto zoom lens that provides photographers with a versatile zoom range, superior optical performance, and advanced features that make it easy to capture stunning images in any situation.

2. Canon Rf35mm F1.8 Is Macro Stm Lens, Black

The Canon RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens is a compact and versatile lens that is designed for use with EOS R series cameras. This lens is ideal for macro photography, with a 0.5x magnification ratio and a minimum focusing distance of just 0.56 ft. or 0.17m. This makes it easy to capture detailed close-up shots of small subjects.

The lens also features a control ring that allows for direct setting changes, which can be particularly useful for adjusting the focus or aperture settings while shooting. This ring has a smooth and responsive feel, which makes it easy to make precise adjustments on the fly.

One of the standout features of this lens is its optical image stabilization, which can provide up to 5 stops of shake correction. This can be particularly useful when shooting in low light conditions or when using a slow shutter speed. The stabilization system works by detecting any camera movement and then adjusting the lens elements to compensate for this movement, resulting in sharper and clearer images.

The Canon RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens also features a 12 pin communication system, which enables faster and more accurate communication between the camera and lens. This can help to ensure that the lens focuses quickly and accurately, even when shooting fast-moving subjects.

The lens is designed to be used with Canon RF mount cameras, which provide a wide range of features and capabilities for photographers. The mount is easy to attach and detach, and the lens is lightweight and compact enough to carry around in a camera bag or backpack.

Overall, the Canon RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens is a versatile and high-performance lens that is ideal for macro photography and other types of close-up shooting. With its advanced features and capabilities, it is a great choice for photographers who want to capture stunning and detailed shots of the world around them.

3. Canon Ef 70-200mm F/2.8l Is Iii Usm Lens For Canon Digital Slr Cameras, White – 3044c002

The Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras, White – 3044C002 is a high-performance telephoto zoom lens that boasts a constant f 2.8 maximum aperture throughout its entire zoom range. This lens is designed for professional photographers who demand exceptional optical performance and reliable durability in their equipment.

One of the key features of this lens is Canon's Air Sphere Coating (ASC), which minimizes ghosting and flare to produce sharp and clear images even in challenging lighting conditions. Additionally, the lens is equipped with optical image stabilization that provides up to 3.5 stops of shake correction, allowing photographers to capture sharp and steady images even when shooting handheld in low light situations.

The lens also features a fluorine coating on the front and rear elements that helps reduce smears and fingerprints, ensuring that the lens stays clean and clear even after repeated use. It is highly resistant to dust and water, and has improved durability even in harsh conditions, making it the perfect choice for outdoor photography.

The lens features an inner focusing system with ring ultrasonic motor that provides fast and quiet autofocus performance, as well as full-time manual focus for precise control over focus adjustments. It also includes one fluorite element and five UD elements for high image quality, ensuring that images captured with this lens are sharp, detailed, and full of contrast.

The lens has a minimum focusing distance of 3.9 feet, 1.2 meter, and a diagonal angle of view ranging from 34° to 12°, making it ideal for capturing a wide range of subjects, from landscapes to portraits to sports and wildlife. It comes with a lens cap, lens dust cap, lens hood, and lens case, providing photographers with everything they need to protect and transport their equipment.

Overall, the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens is a versatile and high-performance lens that provides exceptional optical performance, reliable durability, and precise control over focus adjustments. It is the perfect choice for professional photographers who demand nothing but the best from their equipment.

4. Sigma 150-600mm Canon Zoom Telephoto Lens Bundle With Accessories And Memory Cards.

The Sigma 150-600mm Canon Zoom Telephoto Lens F/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Bundle is a comprehensive package that includes everything needed for capturing stunning long-reach photographs. This bundle comes with a Sigma Lens for Canon, Front and Rear Caps, Lens Hood, Lens Case, and 2X 128GB SanDisk Memory Cards.

The Sigma 150-600mm Canon telephoto lens is designed around the idea of maximum portability combined with the utmost image quality in a variable aperture hyper-telephoto zoom lens. This lens is ideal for a variety of photographic situations, including birding, wildlife, and motor photography.

The lens boasts updated Sigma technology, including a quiet and optimized Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) with an accelerometer for improved panning photography both vertically and horizontally. The lens is feature-heavy, including a new zoom lock switch that can be locked at any focal length and a new manual override (MO) switch for improved focusing control.

Working with the Sigma USB dock, this lens allows for maximum customization such as firmware updates and adjustments to the focus limiter, AF speed, and OS view. The Optical Stabilizer system minimizes the appearance of camera shake for sharper imagery when shooting handheld, and the rounded nine-blade diaphragm contributes to a smooth and pleasing bokeh quality.

Constructed using a Thermally Stable Composite (TSC) material, this lens offers greater precision and use in wide temperature variations. Additionally, a brass bayonet affords improved mounting accuracy and rigidity. The removable, rotating tripod collar offers well-balanced support for photographing atop a tripod or monopod with either vertical or horizontal shooting orientations.

Water and oil repellent coating on the front glass element makes maintenance of the lens surface easy. The minimum focusing distance of this lens is 280 cm/110.2 inches, and the focal length is 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM/C. This lens is the first hyper-telephoto zoom from the Contemporary line and features a dustproof and splash-proof mount with a 95mm filter.

Overall, the Sigma 150-600mm Canon Zoom Telephoto Lens F/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Bundle is a top-of-the-line option for those seeking a versatile, high-quality lens for long-reach photography. Its lightweight and compact design, along with its many features and included accessories, make it an excellent value for any photographer.

5. Canon Ef 100-400mm F/4.5-5.6l Is Ii Usm Lens, Lens Only

The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L is II USM lens is a high-performance super-telephoto zoom lens designed for sports and wildlife photography. It is a part of the renowned L-series lenses from Canon, which have a reputation for delivering superior optical performance and build quality.

One of the standout features of this lens is its compact size, which makes it easy to handle and carry around. This, combined with its high performance, makes it an ideal choice for photographers who need to capture fast-moving subjects in challenging lighting conditions.

The lens has a rotation-type zoom ring, which allows for more precise composition and excellent balance when handholding. This feature is especially useful when shooting in fast-paced environments where every second counts.

The improved zoom torque adjustment ring allows for easy setting of zoom tension, focal length, and maximum aperture. This makes it easy for photographers to adjust the lens according to their shooting needs and preferences.

The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L is II USM lens also features the new Air Sphere Coating (ASC), which significantly reduces backlit flaring and ghosting. This makes it easier for photographers to capture clear and sharp images in challenging lighting conditions.

The lens is highly resistant to dust and water, making it ideal for outdoor shooting in all kinds of weather conditions. It is also incredibly durable, enabling photographers to shoot even in harsh conditions without worrying about damaging the lens.

In terms of technical specifications, the lens has a focal length range of 100-400mm and a maximum aperture of 1:4.5-5.6. It has a closest focusing distance of 3.2 ft. / 0.98m, making it easy to capture close-up shots of subjects.

Overall, the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L is II USM lens is a high-performance super-telephoto zoom lens that offers excellent optical performance, durability, and ease of use. It is an ideal choice for sports and wildlife photographers who need a lens that can keep up with their fast-paced shooting style.

6. Canon Eos Rebel T7 Dslr Camera Bundle With 18-55mm And 75-300mm Lenses, 500mm Preset Lens, Memory, Filters, Monopod, And Professional Accessories (Renewed)

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm IS II Lens Bundle is a comprehensive package for anyone looking to capture high-quality images and videos. This bundle includes several accessories that will enhance your photography experience.

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera features a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 4+ image processor, providing you with clear and detailed images. It also has a 3.0" 920k-Dot LCD monitor, making it easy to view your shots. The camera can record full HD 1080/30p videos and has a 9-point AF system with a center cross-type point, allowing you to capture fast-moving subjects.

The bundle also includes a Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens, which is a versatile option for everyday shooting. This lens covers a 28.8-88mm equivalent focal length range, allowing you to capture wide-angle to portrait-length perspectives. Additionally, the bundle includes a Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens and a 500mm f/8 Telephoto Preset Lens, giving you even more versatility in your photography.

The SanDisk 32GB SDHC Memory Cards, Camera Shoulder Case, Slave Flash, High Definition UV Filters, and High-Speed USB Card Reader are also included in the bundle. These accessories will help you store and transfer your images and videos, while the shoulder case will protect your camera when you're on the go.

Furthermore, the bundle also includes a variety of high-quality accessories such as an HD filter kit, Monopod, Flexible spider tripod, T-Mount for 500mm Lens, and more. These accessories will help you capture stunning images and videos, no matter what your photography needs are.

In conclusion, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera Bundle is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a complete photography package. With its high-quality camera, lenses, and accessories, you can capture stunning images and videos with ease.

7. Panasonic X1500 4k Camcorder With 24x Zoom And Wifi Streaming, Hc-X1500 (Usa Black)

The Panasonic X1500 4K Professional Camcorder with 24X Optical Zoom and WiFi HD Live Streaming is a top-of-the-line device designed for professional videographers. It boasts a range of pro features, including manual rings, ND filters, and 24-bit high resolution linear PCM audio recording, making it ideal for capturing high-quality footage in a variety of settings.

One of the standout features of the Panasonic X1500 is its built-in WiFi, which enables HD live streaming. This makes it easy to share your footage in real-time with clients, colleagues, or audiences around the world.

The camcorder is also capable of recording in 4K 60p, despite its compact and lightweight design. This is thanks to its innovative heat-dispersing design, which ensures that the device stays cool even during extended recording sessions.

The Panasonic X1500 also features a LEICA DICOMAR lens with a wide-angle 25mm 24x optical zoom. This is complemented by 5-Axis Hybrid O.I.S (Optical Image Stabilization) and high-speed focusing, which help ensure that your footage is stable and sharp even when shooting on the move.

In terms of display and viewfinder, the Panasonic X1500 boasts a 3.5-inch monitor with electrostatic touch panel and 2,760K-dots, as well as an up/down tiltable viewfinder with 1,555K-dot resolution. The device also offers simultaneous LCD output, making it easy to monitor your footage while shooting.

Overall, the Panasonic X1500 4K Professional Camcorder with 24X Optical Zoom and WiFi HD Live Streaming is a powerful and versatile device that is ideal for professional videographers looking to capture high-quality footage in a range of settings.

8. Dji Om 4 Se – Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer With Tripod, Magnetic Design, Portable And Foldable, Activetrack 3.0, Story Mode, For Android And Iphone. Ideal For Vlogging, Youtube And Tiktok Videos.

The DJI OM 4 SE 3-Axis Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer with Tripod, Magnetic Design, Portable and Foldable, ActiveTrack 3.0, Story Mode, Vlogging Stabilizer, YouTube TikTok Video, for Android and iPhone is a versatile and powerful tool for anyone looking to take their smartphone filming to the next level.

One of the standout features of the DJI OM 4 SE is its magnetic design, which allows for fast and easy phone attachments. This means you can start filming smooth and creative footage on the go, without having to fumble with clunky phone mounts or complicated rigging.

In addition, the DJI OM 4 SE is designed to be incredibly lightweight and portable, so you can take it with you anywhere. Whether you're on a beach vacation or just filming in your own backyard, this gimbal stabilizer is the perfect creative companion.

Another key feature of the DJI OM 4 SE is its improved tracking mode, which uses ActiveTrack 3.0 to recognize and follow adults, children, and pets automatically. This makes it easier than ever to capture stunning footage of moving subjects, without having to worry about keeping them in frame.

For those who want to get creative with their videos, the DJI OM 4 SE also includes a Story Mode, which allows you to apply creative templates for stunning videos with just a few taps. This feature is perfect for those who don't want to spend time editing and adding music and effects, as the gimbal stabilizer does all the work for you.

Perhaps most impressively, the DJI OM 4 SE's powerful 3-axis stabilization technology ensures that even shaky footage is transformed into cinematic smoothness. This is true even when using an external lens, making it an ideal tool for professional videographers and vloggers.

Finally, the DJI OM 4 SE is incredibly easy to control, with simple gestures allowing you to start and stop recordings, switch between modes, and even take selfies with ease. This means you can focus on your creativity and let the gimbal stabilizer handle the technical details.

Overall, the DJI OM 4 SE 3-Axis Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer with Tripod, Magnetic Design, Portable and Foldable, ActiveTrack 3.0, Story Mode, Vlogging Stabilizer, YouTube TikTok Video, for Android and iPhone is an indispensable tool for anyone looking to take their smartphone filming to the next level.

9. Canon Eos 4000d Dslr Kit With Ef-S 18-55mm Lens, Complete Accessory Bundle, And 64gb Flash – Renewed (International Model)

The Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 Digital SLR Camera Body is a powerful and versatile camera that delivers high-quality images and videos. This camera comes bundled with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens and a range of accessories, making it an excellent choice for both amateur and professional photographers.

The 18.0MP APS-C CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor ensure that images are captured with remarkable clarity and detail. The 2.7' 230k-Dot LCD Monitor allows for easy framing and review of images and videos. Additionally, the camera has a Full HD 1080p Video Recording capability at 30 fps, making it a great tool for videographers as well.

The camera's 9-point AF System and AI Servo AF ensure that images are in sharp focus, even when capturing fast-moving subjects. The Extended ISO 12800 and 3 fps Shooting capabilities make it possible to capture stunning images even in low light conditions.

The Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 Digital SLR Camera Body also features built-in Wi-Fi, making it easy to share images and videos wirelessly. The Scene Intelligent Auto Mode, Creative Auto Modes, and Manual Modes provide photographers with a range of options for capturing the perfect shot in any setting.

The camera is known as the Canon EOS Rebel T100 in the United States and is an International Model, meaning that it does not come with a manufacturer's warranty. However, it is still a reliable and high-performing camera that is sure to impress.

The Deluxe Bundle with the Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 Digital SLR Camera Body includes the camera, 18-55mm Lens, Wide-angle & Telephoto lenses, 64gb memory card, case, filter kit, flash, tripod, and more. This bundle provides everything a photographer needs to start capturing stunning images and videos right out of the box.

Overall, the Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 Digital SLR Camera Body with the Complete Accessory Bundle is an excellent choice for photographers and videographers of all skill levels. Its high-quality images, easy-to-use features, and range of accessories make it a great value for anyone looking to capture stunning photos and videos.

10. Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus: 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer For Android/iphone, With Face/object Tracking And 600° Auto Rotation For Smooth Video Recording.

The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is a state-of-the-art gimbal stabilizer designed for smartphones. With its upgraded iSteady 6.0 anti-shake technology, it eliminates blurry and shaky videos, providing incredibly stable & smooth multi-scene shots. This makes it an ideal tool for daily travel recording, short video creation, or wedding and sports shooting.

The Hohem Joy app, available for both iOS and Android, allows users to control their filming tool with ease. The app comes equipped with several features, including the "Moment" video template, Inception, Fantastic Rotation, CloneMe, Panoramic Video, Timelapse, and Dolly Zoom. These can all be done with one click, giving users the ability to experience the effect of one-click filming. Additionally, the app provides face/object tracking, beauty touch-up, and pan mode switching, which can all be edited on the phone app.

The gimbal for phone features a newly developed "inception" mode that can vertically rotate the phone 360° spontaneously when filming, making it the ultimate tool for storytellers. It has a 600° wide rotation range, so creation is not limited by angle. It also provides basic zoom/focus control, all pan and tilt tracking/locking modes, and a 3 ¼ screw hole for accessories such as a tripod or video light.

The updated sport mode allows users to take smooth shots even when they go to extremes, such as running upstairs, cycling outdoors, or traveling over rough terrain. The 3-axis variable speed adaptation is also extremely sensitive to hand movements, providing users with professional-type footage with mesmerizing smoothness.

The 2022 updated version of the Mobile+ phone gimbal stabilizer has a battery life of up to 13 hours, ensuring longer shooting time when shooting outdoors. It can also be used as a power bank to charge the phone in case it runs out of power. This smartphone gimbal is compatible with iPhone 14 13 12 11 Pro Mini XS Max XR X,Samsung Galaxy S22 S21 S20 Plus Ultra Galaxy A90 A60, Huawei P50 P40 P30 P20 Pro Mate40 30 20 Pro.

Overall, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is a versatile and reliable tool for those who want to take their filming game to the next level. Its sophisticated design and adaptability make it a unique production tool for fast-moving actions to sports, live streams and vlogs, documentaries, and independent features.

Best Lens For Sports Videography FAQs

Are there any specific lens features or technologies that are particularly useful for sports videography?

Yes, there are several lens features and technologies that are particularly useful for sports videography. One of the most important is image stabilization, which helps to steady the camera and reduce the effects of camera shake during fast-paced action. Another useful feature is fast autofocus, which can help keep the subject in focus even when they are moving quickly. Additionally, lenses with wide apertures are beneficial for sports videography as they allow for faster shutter speeds and better low-light performance. Zoom lenses are also popular for sports videography, as they allow for flexibility in framing shots without having to physically move the camera. Finally, weather sealing is important for outdoor sports videography, as it protects the lens from moisture and dust. Overall, a combination of these features can help sports videographers capture high-quality footage of fast-paced action.

Can a wide-angle lens be used effectively in sports videography, or is a telephoto lens necessary?

While telephoto lenses are commonly used in sports videography to capture far-off action, wide-angle lenses can also be effective in certain situations. Wide-angle lenses are particularly useful for capturing the overall atmosphere of a sporting event, such as a crowded stadium or the surrounding landscape. They can also be used for establishing shots or to capture the reactions of fans.

However, when it comes to capturing the actual gameplay, a telephoto lens is often necessary to get close-up shots of the athletes in action. This is especially true for sports like football, soccer, or basketball, where the action is happening at a distance from the audience. A telephoto lens with a long focal length can zoom in on the action and provide a detailed view of the athletes' movements.

In summary, while wide-angle lenses have their uses in sports videography, a telephoto lens is typically necessary to capture the close-up action of the athletes.

How does lens aperture affect the quality of sports videography footage?

The aperture of a camera lens plays a critical role in determining the quality of sports videography footage. The aperture is the opening in the lens that allows light to enter the camera. The size of the aperture affects the amount of light that enters the camera and the depth of field of the image. In sports videography, having a larger aperture can be advantageous because it allows more light to enter the camera, which can help capture sharp images in low-light conditions. A larger aperture also allows for a shallower depth of field, which can help isolate the subject and create a more cinematic look. However, a larger aperture can also make it more challenging to keep the subject in focus, especially if they are moving quickly. Therefore, it's crucial to find the right balance between aperture size and focus when shooting sports videography. Overall, the aperture plays a crucial role in determining the quality of sports videography footage, and it's essential to understand how to adjust it to achieve the desired results.

What is the ideal focal length range for a sports videography lens?

As a sports videographer, the ideal focal length range for a lens would depend on the type of sports being captured and the shooting location. For outdoor sports, a range of 70-200mm or even 100-400mm would be ideal for capturing close-up shots from a distance. This range allows for flexibility in capturing action shots from different angles without compromising image quality. For indoor sports or events, a wider focal length range of 24-70mm would be more suitable for capturing wider shots and close-ups of athletes and their surroundings.

In summary, the ideal focal length range for a sports videography lens would depend on the specific requirements of the shoot, but a range of 70-200mm for outdoor sports and 24-70mm for indoor sports would be a good starting point.

What type of lens is best for capturing fast-moving action in sports videography?

When it comes to sports videography, the best type of lens for capturing fast-moving action is a telephoto lens with a wide aperture. A telephoto lens enables the videographer to zoom in on the action from a distance, while a wide aperture allows more light to enter the lens, resulting in faster shutter speeds and better low-light performance. A lens with image stabilization is also beneficial to reduce camera shake and capture smoother footage.

The ideal focal length for sports videography is generally between 70mm to 200mm. This range allows for versatility in capturing both wide-angle shots and close-up shots of individual athletes. However, the specific focal length needed may vary depending on the sport and the shooting location.

Overall, investing in a high-quality telephoto lens with a wide aperture and image stabilization is crucial for capturing sharp, clear footage of fast-moving sports action.

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