6:59
Don't Waste Your Money On One Lens
Brandän Jones
Overview
This video argues for purchasing a full set of cinema lenses instead of a single lens, especially for solo filmmakers. While a single versatile lens like a 35mm might seem practical, a set offers crucial benefits like consistent visual characteristics (micro-contrast, bokeh, focus) across different focal lengths. This consistency enhances storytelling by allowing filmmakers to evoke specific emotions and immerse viewers through varied shots without compromising the overall aesthetic. Although sets are a significant investment, they can offer better value per lens and are presented as a long-term investment in a filmmaker's unique visual style and storytelling capabilities.
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Chapters
- Many solo filmmakers face the decision between buying one cinema lens or a full set.
- A single, versatile focal length (e.g., 35mm) seems practical for various shots.
- However, relying on just one lens limits storytelling depth and viewer immersion.
- The core argument is that a set of cinema lenses is ultimately more beneficial than a single purchase.
Understanding this initial dilemma is crucial because it sets up the problem that the video aims to solve, highlighting the common misconception that one lens is sufficient.
Purchasing a single 35mm DZOptics Vespid lens with the intention of using it for all shots, from wide to close-ups, by physically moving closer or further away.
- Cinema lens sets provide consistent micro-contrast, making subjects 'pop' from the background with a similar 3D effect across all lenses.
- Bokeh characteristics remain consistent throughout the set, contributing to a cohesive visual style.
- Focusing mechanisms and T-stop markings are standardized, allowing for repeatable and accurate focus pulls, even when collaborating.
- Having multiple focal lengths allows for greater narrative control and emotional impact on the viewer.
These consistent visual qualities are essential for building a professional and unified look, enabling filmmakers to tell more compelling stories by controlling viewer perception.
Using a 35mm lens for a wide shot and then switching to a 75mm lens for a close-up, knowing that the micro-contrast and bokeh will look similar, maintaining the scene's aesthetic integrity.
- Different focal lengths allow filmmakers to guide the viewer's attention and emotional response.
- A tighter shot, achieved with a longer focal length, can make the viewer feel more involved in the action.
- Solo filmmakers often forget about the audience's perspective when working alone.
- A set of lenses helps build narrative momentum and deepen the viewer's connection to the story.
This chapter emphasizes that lens choice is not just technical but a powerful storytelling tool that directly impacts how the audience experiences the film.
Using a tight shot with a longer focal length to make the viewer feel 'in on the action,' as opposed to simply zooming in with a single lens.
- The primary drawback of a set is the significant upfront cost.
- However, purchasing a set often results in a lower price per lens compared to buying individually.
- A set is an investment in a filmmaker's craft and their ability to create multiple projects over time.
- Developing a unique visual style is crucial for standing out, and a consistent lens set aids in achieving this.
- Famous filmmakers and Directors of Photography often have a signature look, which can be cultivated with a dedicated lens set.
This section reframes the high cost as a strategic investment that offers long-term benefits in terms of value, creative development, and professional differentiation.
Comparing the cost of buying 4-6 lenses individually versus buying them as a bundled set, where the per-lens price is often reduced, making it a more economical choice in the long run.
Key takeaways
- A full set of cinema lenses offers consistent visual characteristics like micro-contrast and bokeh, which are vital for a cohesive aesthetic.
- Varying focal lengths from a lens set allows filmmakers to manipulate viewer perception and enhance storytelling depth.
- For solo filmmakers, a set of lenses is an investment that enables greater creative control and audience engagement.
- While expensive, buying a cinema lens set can be more cost-effective per lens than purchasing them individually.
- Developing a unique visual style is a key differentiator for filmmakers, and a consistent lens set is instrumental in achieving this.
- Standardized T-stops and focus mechanisms in cinema lenses improve workflow efficiency and accuracy, especially for solo operators.
- The decision to buy a set is about investing in long-term storytelling capabilities rather than a single project.
Key terms
Cinema lensPhoto lensFocal lengthSolo filmmakerMicro-contrastBokehT-stopDepth of fieldVisual styleNarrative control
Test your understanding
- Why is micro-contrast consistency important when using a set of cinema lenses?
- How does having different focal lengths in a lens set contribute to better storytelling for a solo filmmaker?
- What are the financial advantages of purchasing a full set of cinema lenses compared to buying them one by one?
- Explain how standardized T-stops on cinema lenses benefit a filmmaker, particularly when working alone.
- What is the relationship between a filmmaker's unique visual style and their choice of cinema lenses?