Which budget cinema lens works best for the Sony FX30?

Question

Should I go with the Sirui Nightwalker series or maybe some Meike primes for my new FX30? Im super hyped because I finally upgraded from my old A7iii setup but the super 35 sensor is throwing me for a loop with all these lens choices. I know my way around a camera but Ive never really delved into dedicated cine glass before and I need something fast for a moody warehouse shoot I have coming up in two weeks. My budget is pretty tight at around 600 bucks for a single lens though I might stretch it if its worth it. Looking for something with decent character and not too much breathing when I pull focus... what do you guys think?

Thomascap · Accepted Answer

I've tried many lenses over the years and the Sirui Nightwalker 35mm T1.2 S35 Cine Lens is honestly the most reliable choice for low light if you want that moody look.

CharlesMop · Answer

Adding my two cents here. In my experience, jumping into cine glass for a specific shoot can be a gamble if you dont prioritize mechanical reliability. I have tried many lenses over the years that looked great on paper but had issues with gear slippage or stiff rings when the temperature changed. For a warehouse shoot, you really need something that wont let you down when you are deep in a take.

7artisans 35mm T1.05 Spectrum Cine Lens

Its incredibly fast for low light and feels very solid. Usually runs around 450 dollars.

Viltrox 33mm T1.5 S35 Cine Lens

The focus throw on this one is very predictable, which is huge when you are pulling focus yourself. I tend to be more conservative with my gear choices because I hate dealing with gear failure right before a deadline. Just make sure whatever you pick has standard 0.8 MOD gears so your follow focus actually works... honestly, the Viltrox is probably the safer bet for consistency.

tank_xvOi · Answer

> Should I go with the Sirui Nightwalker series or maybe some Meike primes for my new FX30? Man, you are gonna love that FX30! Moving to S35 for my commercial work was honestly the best decision ever. That sensor is just fantastic for video and honestly so much fun to use. Since you mentioned that warehouse shoot, the Meike 35mm T2.1 S35 Cine Lens is a total beast. It was my go-to for a dark, industrial music video last winter and performed amazing! While the Siruis are super fast, these Meike primes are built like absolute tanks. Focus breathing is basically non-existent. You can pull from a foreground pipe to a subject in the back of the room and the frame barely shifts... it is amazing for those high-end cinematic vibes. If you really need that crazy low light speed tho, check out the 7Artisans 35mm T1.05 Vision Cine Lens. I grabbed one for a gritty night shoot recently and it has got so much character! It is a bit soft wide open but ngl it gives this dreamy, vintage look that works so well for moody stuff. Since your budget is around 600 bucks, you could easily grab the Meike and still have cash left for a decent variable ND or some extra batteries. Definitely go with the 35mm first... it is the sweet spot for that S35 sensor and feels like a proper 50mm on full frame! You wont regret it.