So I finally pulled the trigger on the a6700 after saving up for like a year and I am so stoked to get started with some actual video work. I’ve been using my iPhone for travel vlogs but it just doesn’t cut it anymore for the low light stuff especially in tight spaces. I’m heading to Tokyo in about three weeks so I need to make a decision fast lol. My budget is capped at like $800 max because I still need to buy extra batteries and a cage.
Right now I’m totally torn between three options:
The Sony 11mm seems killer because it's so small and that f1.8 would be amazing for night street shots but I'm worried that not having a zoom might be limiting when I can't just move my feet in crowded spots. Then there's the Sigma which is getting insane reviews for being tiny but I keep hearing the autofocus might not be as snappy as native Sony glass for video? The Tamron is also there but it feels a bit bigger and I’m trying to keep this rig light for walking 20k steps a day.
Is the f1.8 on the prime worth giving up the flexibility of a zoom for travel video? I really want that pro look but I dont want to be swapping lenses every five minutes in the rain...
Unfortunately, most zooms in this range have focus breathing issues that ruin shots. I had issues with the Tamron 11-20mm F2.8 Di III-A RXD being way too bulky for travel, and the Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary isnt as snappy as I expected for video. Are you planning on shooting handheld or using a gimbal? Honestly, the Sony E 11mm F1.8 is much safer for reliability.
Like someone mentioned, having that zoom flexibility is seriously everything when you're stuck in those crowded Tokyo streets! I'm so stoked for you, that city is a literal playground for video work. I remember being there a few years back with just a prime and honestly it was a nightmare trying to frame shots in tiny alleys without literally backing into people. You definitely want something reliable so you can just enjoy the trip without stressing!