We’ve all gazed up at the night sky, awestruck by the celestial show above us.
Capturing that splendor through astrophotography and videography requires the right gear, especially the perfect lens.
Choosing the best lenses can be as complex as the constellations themselves.
We’re here to demystify the process and guide you to the stars with lenses that’ll make your night sky images truly shine.
Best Astrophotography & Videography Lenses
Let’s take a look at the best astrophotography & videography lenses offerings out there.
1. Sigma 14mm F/1.8 DG HSM Art Lens
When seeking the best lenses for astrophotography and videography, the Sigma 14mm f/1.8 DG HSM Art Lens demands attention.
Its wide-angle perspective and ultra-fast aperture make it a powerhouse for night sky imaging.
This lens sets itself apart with an impressive optical performance that includes:
- Low distortion,
- Minimal chromatic aberration,
- Superior corner-to-corner sharpness.
Astrophotographers value the Sigma’s ability to pull in ample light – a crucial factor when photographing the cosmos.
The f/1.8 aperture ensures stars appear as crisp pinpoints rather than blurry orbs.
Structurally, the Sigma 14mm lens is built to last.
Our experience tells us that its durable construction can handle the rigors of nighttime shoots in various environments.
The lens boasts a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), ensuring quick and silent focusing.
This feature is particularly valuable when capturing video footage, where autofocus noise can be a concern.
Optical quality is further enhanced by special elements and coatings –
- FLD and SLD glass elements,
- Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting.
We find the Sigma 14mm f/1.8 particularly useful for capturing expansive landscapes under the stars.
Its field of view encompasses vast expanses of the sky, allowing for dramatic compositions.
Videographers will appreciate the lens’s smooth focus pull and consistent output in low light conditions.
The manual override function adds an extra level of control during filming sessions.
Featuring a fast aperture and robust build, the Sigma 14mm f/1.8 Art is a solid investment for serious night sky enthusiasts.
Whether for stills or motion, it delivers quality that can elevate our work to professional levels.
- Focal Length: 14mm
- Aperture Range: f/1.8 - f/16
- Sony E Mount Lens
- 35mm Film / Full-Frame Digital Sensor
- Hyper-Sonic Motor Focusing (HSM)
2. Samyang 14mm F/2.8 IF ED UMC Lens
When exploring the vast skies, the Samyang 14mm f/2.8 IF ED UMC stands out as an affordable yet powerful option for astrophotography and videography.
This lens offers a remarkable wide-angle view, allowing us to capture the grandeur of the night sky in full glory.
Built with a robust construction, the Samyang lens promises longevity and resilience against the elements.
It’s a choice that doesn’t compromise on durability, ensuring we can shoot under a variety of conditions without worry.
The optical performance of the Samyang 14mm is fortified by several key features:
- Hybrid aspherical lenses which reduce aberrations,
- Ultra Multi-Coating (UMC) to minimize flare and ghosting,
- An internal focusing system that maintains the lens’s physical length.
The maximum aperture of f/2.8 aids in pulling in sufficient light, which is crucial for photographing stars and galaxies.
We’ll find that shooting in low light scenarios is made markedly easier with the wide aperture at our disposal.
Also, the Samyang lens is equipped with manual focus, allowing for precise adjustments that are essential when aiming for sharp starscapes.
Astrophotographers who value the hands-on approach will find this level of control to be particularly beneficial.
Finally, its compatibility with a variety of mounts makes the Samyang 14mm f/2.8 an excellent addition to our gear, adapting to different shooting styles and camera systems with ease.
Whether on a full-frame or a crop sensor, its performance remains consistent.
- Focal length: 14mm
- Angle of view: 114掳
- Maximum aperture: f/2.8 Minimum aperture: f/22
- Focus type: manual Focus
- Canon mount
3. Canon EF 50mm F/1.8 STM Lens
When discussing the best lenses for astrophotography and videography, one cannot overlook the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens.
This lens, known as the “nifty fifty,” is revered for its versatility and exceptional low-light performance.
With its f/1.8 maximum aperture, the lens allows for a substantial amount of light to reach the sensor.
This feature is crucial when capturing the night sky, where lighting is inherently minimal.
The build quality of the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is robust, yet it remains lightweight and compact.
These characteristics make it an excellent option for astrophotographers and videographers who often trek to remote locations.
Optical quality is another standout aspect of this lens – it produces sharp images with minimal aberration.
The 50mm focal length also offers a natural perspective, free from the distortion commonly found in wider lenses.
Autofocus performance is smooth and precise, thanks to the Stepping Motor (STM) technology.
But, for astrophotography, the ability to switch to manual focus ensures that stars and celestial objects can be dialed in with pinpoint accuracy.
Compatibility with the Canon ecosystem is seamless.
This ensures the lens can be used across various Canon DSLRs and mirrorless cameras with the appropriate mount.
Key features of the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM include:
- F/1.8 maximum aperture for exceptional low-light performance,
- Stepping Motor (STM) for smooth, near-silent autofocus,
- Compact and lightweight design ideal for travel.
This lens has proven itself to be not only a staple for photographers but a cost-effective gem in the astrophotography community.
It’s clear that the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM holds its own alongside more specialized lenses.
- Bundle Items Includes: 1 x Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens, 1 x 49mm 3 Piece Filter Kit, 1 x Lens Cap...
- One of the most versatile focal lengths available, the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens from Canon is a...
- Additionally, an STM stepping AF motor is used to realize quick and near-silent autofocus...
- Key Features: EF-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format - Aperture Range: f/1.8 to f/22 - Super Spectra...
- Compatibility: Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K, Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K...
4. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm F/2.8g ED Lens
When we jump into the realm of Nikon lenses, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED stands out as a stellar choice for astrophotography and videography.
It boasts a wide angle of view and a fast aperture, making it perfect for capturing the night sky in all its glory.
This lens also excels in sharpness and color accuracy across the entire zoom range.
Its robust build quality ensures that it can handle tough weather conditions, which is often a requirement for astrophotographers venturing into the wild.
Optically, it includes several features that are crucial for reducing common issues such as chromatic aberration and lens flare:
- Nano Crystal Coat – minimizes ghosting and interior reflections,
- Two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements – enhance sharpness and correct chromatic aberrations,
- Aspherical lens elements – reduce coma and other types of lens distortion.
Through its constant f/2.8 aperture, the Nikon 14-24mm lens provides consistent exposure settings throughout the zoom range.
This is particularly useful when transitioning from wide landscape shots to more zoomed-in compositions without having to adjust exposure settings significantly.
Our experience with this lens has shown that it’s especially good for creating videos with a cinematic depth of field.
The silent Wave Motor (SWM) facilitates smooth and quiet autofocus, a feature that’s often underappreciated until we’re trying to shoot a quiet night scene.
The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED’s versatility extends beyond astrophotography.
It’s an excellent choice for landscape, architecture, and interior photography as well, thanks to its ultra-wide angle and superior optical performance.
It integrates seamlessly with the Nikon DSLR ecosystem, further cementing its status as a go-to lens for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Given these features, it’s clear why this lens is a favorite among Nikon users seeking exceptional optical quality for night sky captures and beyond.
It pairs well with high-resolution sensors to fully exploit the available detail that celestial subjects have to offer.
- Focal Length Range: 14 -24 millimeter
- Minimum focus distance 0.9 feet. (0.28 meter), minimum f/stop 22
- Lens construction 14/11 (2 ED glass elements, 3 aspherical lenses and 1 Nano Crystal Coat)
- Angle of View: 114° - 84°
5. Tokina AT-X 11-20mm F/2.8 Pro DX Lens
Exploring the heavens requires a lens with exceptional performance and reliability.
That’s where the Tokina AT-X 11-20mm f/2.8 Pro DX Lens shines.
This ultra-wide-angle lens is a top pick for crop sensor DSLR cameras, offering a versatile range that’s perfect for capturing expansive night skies.
Constant f/2.8 aperture ensures ample light collection, crucial for astrophotography.
Our images remain crisp and bright throughout the entire zoom range.
It’s a game-changer for night shoots where light is sparse.
Build quality and handling are crucial for photographers often in the field at night.
The Tokina AT-X 11-20mm f/2.8 Pro DX is robust – build to withstand the elements.
Its focus clutch mechanism allows for quick switching between autofocus and manual focus.
Optical performance must be stellar for astrophotography and videography.
The Tokina lens offers:
- Low distortion – essential for keeping star trails and architectural lines straight,
- Minimal chromatic aberration – retaining the true colors of the cosmos.
The lens’s precise autofocus system works seamlessly, even in dim conditions.
Yet, we often find ourselves relying on the manual focus for fine-tuning the sharpest possible images of the stars.
The one-touch focus clutch makes this switch effortless.
For crop sensor enthusiasts, the Tokina AT-X 11-20mm f/2.8 Pro DX Lens is a solid choice that doesn’t force us to compromise on image quality.
Its focal range from 11mm to 20mm gives us both great coverage and stunning detail in our astrophotography endeavors.
- F-Mount Lens/DX Format. 16.5-30mm (35mm Equivalent)
- Aperture Range: f/2.8 to f/22. P-MO & Glass-Molded Aspherical Elements
- Three SD Ultra-Low Dispersion Elements. Multi-Layer Lens Coatings
6. Sony FE 20mm F/1.8 G Lens
The Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G is an exceptional choice for astrophotographers seeking a wide and fast lens.
Its f/1.8 maximum aperture allows for an impressive intake of light, illuminating the night sky and capturing its vastness with clarity.
Videographers will find the lens’s responsive autofocus and quiet operation indispensable for shooting under the stars.
The ability to quickly switch to manual focus provides creative control when filming celestial phenomena.
Understanding the rigors of night photography, Sony designed this lens with a durable structure.
The dust and moisture resistant construction ensures it can withstand challenging outdoor conditions.
Our experiences with the Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G reveal superior sharpness and minimal distortion.
The advanced optical design includes:
- Two AA (advanced aspherical) elements,
- Three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements.
This combination significantly reduces chromatic aberration and provides excellent resolution across the entire image.
This lens isn’t just about stars and nightscapes.
We’ve used it extensively in broad daylight for subjects like:
- Architectural shots,
- Engaging landscapes,
- Intimate environmental portraits.
It’s wide-angle perspective combined with shallow depth of field opens up a myriad of compositional possibilities.
- Item Includes: 1 x Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G Lens, 1 x Sandisk 64GB Ultra Memory Card, 1 x 3 Piece Filter...
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- Two AA (Advanced Aspherical) elements help to greatly reduce distortion and spherical aberrations in...
- Key Features: E-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format - Aperture Range: f/1.8 to f/22 - Two Aspherical...
- Compatible With: FREEFLY Wave - Sony A1 - Sony A5000 - Sony A5100 - Sony A6000 - Sony A6100 - Sony...
13. Laowa 12mm F/2.8 Zero-d Lens
When venturing into the world of astrophotography and videography, it’s imperative to have a lens that can combat distortion and deliver sharpness across the entire image.
That’s where the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens comes into play – its “Zero-D” designation means it offers nearly no distortion, which is a critical advantage when capturing the night sky.
Ultra-wide angle lenses like this one are a boon for capturing vast landscapes under the stars.
With its impressive 122-degree angle of view, the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 collects a vast expanse of the sky, making it perfect for Milky Way photography and capturing constellations in their full glory.
The lens’s fast f/2.8 aperture allows for shorter exposure times, so reducing the risk of star trailing while also enabling videographers to shoot in low-light conditions without sacrificing video quality.
The wide aperture gathers more light and creates a shallower depth of field, offering that ethereal look that’s often sought after in astro visuals.
Even though its wide aperture, the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 maintains sharpness from corner to corner.
This is due to its precise optical design, which includes:
- Two aspherical elements that control distortion and spherical aberrations,
- Three extra-low dispersion elements that minimize chromatic aberrations.
This lens is not just limited to the cosmos.
Filmmakers find the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 to be an exceptional piece of gear when shooting in tight spaces or when aiming to produce a dramatic perspective in their storytelling.
We know durability is key, and the Laowa 12mm doesn’t disappoint.
It’s constructed with a solid, robust body that can withstand challenging outdoor environments.
The lens’s moisture-resistant design makes it a reliable companion for those unpredictable nights under the stars.
- RF-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format
- Three Extra-Low Dispersion Elements
- Aperture Range: f/2.8 to f/22
- Two Aspherical Elements
- Rectilinear design renders subjects with minimal distortion
14. Tamron 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 Lens
In our quest to uncover the best lenses for astrophotography & videography, it’s impossible to overlook the Tamron 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2.
This lens stands out with its Vibration Compensation feature – a rarity in wide-angle zoom lenses – which significantly reduces camera shake.
It boasts a fast f/2.8 aperture across the entire zoom range.
And let’s not forget its USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) motor that ensures we capture the night sky in utter silence, perfect for video work.
The optical design is a testament to Tamron’s commitment to quality.
We’ll find an array of special elements, including:
- XLD (Extra Low Dispersion) and LD (Low Dispersion) lens elements,
- AX (Aspherical) and molded-glass aspherical lens elements,
- eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating.
These superior glass elements work together to deliver sharp, clear images with minimal aberrations.
And the eBAND Coating is a champion against ghosting and flare, enhancing our astro shots even further.
The robust construction of this lens does not disappoint.
Its durable build is complimented by moisture-resistant seals – because we never know when we’ll be caught under the stars in changing weather.
With Tamron’s new tap-in console, we have more control than ever.
Firmware updates and focus adjustments can be made with ease, keeping our lens at the forefront of technology.
Whether we’re capturing extended starfields or shooting a dramatic video under the Milky Way, the Tamron 15-30mm lens offers flexibility and performance that can elevate our work.
It’s a powerful tool in any astrophotographer’s or videographer’s kit, complementing the other lenses we’ve curated for stellar visual storytelling.
15. Fujifilm XF 16mm F/1.4 R WR Lens
For astrophotographers shooting with Fujifilm mirrorless cameras, we’ve found the Fujifilm XF 16mm f/1.4 R WR Lens to be a stellar choice.
Its fast f/1.4 aperture allows for extraordinary low light performance, essential for capturing the night sky in all its splendor.
This lens is not just fast but also weather-resistant – a perfect companion for unpredictable outdoor conditions that astrophotographers often face.
With this lens in our kit, we can confidently shoot under a starry sky without fretting over a bit of moisture or dust.
The optical quality is nothing short of impressive.
The lens produces images with crisp details and minimal chromatic aberration, thanks to its two aspherical and two extra-low dispersion elements.
Sharpness is a key feature across Fujifilm’s lens lineup, and the XF 16mm lens lives up to this expectation.
Even at its widest aperture, we notice that the center of the frame to the edges remain exceptionally sharp, a boon for astrophotography where every star counts.
Autofocus performance is often less crucial for astrophotography, but when we switch to videography, we appreciate the lens’ quick and silent focusing mechanism.
It ensures that we can make the most of those fleeting moments without any distracting noise.
Here’s a quick glance at the specs laid out for the Fujifilm XF 16mm f/1.4 R WR Lens:
- Maximum Aperture: f/1.4,
- Focal Length: 16mm,
- Weather Sealing: Yes,
- Optical Construction: 13 elements in 11 groups.
The lens design incorporates a clutch mechanism for a seamless switch between manual and autofocus modes.
It adds to the ease of use, especially when adjusting focus in the dark.
- 24mm in 35mm format equivalentTo adjust focus, rotate the focus ring while viewing the effects in...
- Angle of view: 83.2°.Minimum working distance of less than 6 inches, Max magnification : 021x
- Weather-resistant design with 9 sealing points in 8 areas
- Nano-GI coating alters the refractive index between glass and air to reduce ghosting and flare
- FUJIFILM X-Mount is compatible with all FUJIFILM interchangeable system cameras
16. Mastering Astrophotography
Crafting a high-quality video of the night sky also involves additional considerations. We always ensure that our camera movements are smooth and deliberate.
Stable tracking of the stars is essential for videography that feels both immersive and professional.
We often rely on motorized mounts and sliders that add dynamic motion to our shots without sacrificing stability.
Astrophotography isn’t just about capturing what’s out there; it’s about sharing a captivating story.
We weave narratives with the stars, drawing viewers into the wonders of our universe.
By considering angles, composition, and the natural flow of the sky, we create more than images – we craft visual tales that resonate with those who gaze upon our work.
- Location – Find areas with minimal light pollution to allow the stars to shine through with clarity.
- Timing – Use apps and resources to track celestial events and the movement of the Milky Way.
- Settings – Experiment with long exposures and wide apertures to let in as much light as possible.
Top Astrophotography & Videography Lenses – Wrap Up
Choosing the right lens is crucial for capturing the night sky in all its glory.
We’ve explored top-tier lenses like the Sony FE 20mm and the Laowa 12mm that promise sharp, expansive views, and the Tamron 15-30mm with its game-changing Vibration Compensation.
For Fujifilm enthusiasts, the XF 16mm can’t be beaten.
But remember, it’s not just about the gear.
Mastering the art of astrophotography involves patience, practice, and a bit of adventure.
Whether you’re tracking stars or weaving visual narratives, the journey is as rewarding as the shots you’ll take.
Armed with these lenses and tips, we’re confident you’ll bring the cosmos to life with breathtaking clarity and creativity.
Let’s go out there and capture the universe’s wonders!
