A Simple Guide To Choosing the Right Camera Lens for Your Fandom Content & Video Marketing!

Joe Piddington’s simple guide to choosing the perfect camera lens for fandom brands and pop culture content creators. ©Ocean View Studios Ltd

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why the right camera lens

is crucial for content creation

and video production

Your fandom content deserves to look epic! Whether you're filming thrilling D&D battles, stunning cosplay transformations, or intricate Pokémon TCG reveals, having the wrong lens can make your videos feel dull and uninteresting. Think upgrading your camera is enough? Not if your lens doesn't match your content’s style and needs.

But choose the right lens, and suddenly your footage pops, your visuals become cinematic, and your content commands attention.

Before you rush out to buy a new lens, here’s the real secret: it's not just what lens you choose, but understanding how each type enhances your fandom content. Whether you're boosting your video production or refining your content marketing, this lens guide will help you create professional content.

Curious who’s behind this blog?
Hi, I’m Joe P, a creative director, producer, and lifelong fandom nerd. I’m on a mission to help fandom creators and businesses stand out with scroll-stopping video marketing that actually connects.

If you want the full backstory (from painting Marvel shoes to blowing up thanks to WrestleMania), check out The Origin Story of Ocean View Studios to see how it all started.

Now that we’re friends, let’s dive in.

Ocean View Studios creating fandom content featuring Marvel comics and the Olympus Trip 35 film camera for geek culture and pop culture brands. Photography: ©Wallace Chuck

step one: how camera lenses work

tips for fandom content creators

and video marketers

Understanding how lenses work (without the jargon) helps you choose the right one for your next shoot. Different lenses shape the way your content feels on screen, so learning the basics is a must.

1. Focal Length Explained: What It Means and Why It Matters

Focal length is measured in millimetres (mm) and determines how zoomed in your footage looks. It also affects the amount of background blur (bokeh), compression, and depth.

• Shorter focal lengths (10–35mm): Wider shots, more background visible. Great for showing off your entire tabletop setup or capturing the full scope of your gaming room.

• Mid-range focal lengths (35–70mm): More natural perspective. Ideal for interviews, cosplay close-ups, or comic book breakdowns.

• Longer focal lengths (70mm+): Zoomed-in, more compressed backgrounds. Perfect for dramatic shots in fan films or showcasing action figures with buttery bokeh.

Joe P’s Top Tip: Want that cinematic background bokeh (aka shallow depth of field)? Choose a lens with a lower f-number (like f/1.8 or f/2.8) and a longer focal length. It's an easy way to make your subject stand out.

2. Aperture Explained: Light, Brightness, and Bokeh

Aperture is the adjustable opening inside your lens that lets light in. A lower f-stop number (like f/1.4) means a wider aperture, which:

• Let’s in more light: Great for darker setups.

• Softer background bokeh: Controls the shallow depth of field.

• About F-stops: The higher the f-stop numbers (like f/11) let’s in less light and creates a sharper focus across the whole scene. Great for showing off full tabletop layouts or studio setups.

Joe P’s Top Tip: If you’re filming in low-light settings like a moody D&D session or horror figure review, a wide aperture is your best friend.

3. Crop Factor Explained: How Sensor Size Changes Your Lens View

Crop factor refers to how your camera’s sensor size impacts the field of view your lens captures. It’s one of those things that confuses creators early on, but once you get it, it can really help you plan better shots.

Most beginner and mid-range cameras, like the Canon EOS R7, use an APS-C sensor, which is smaller than a full-frame sensor. Because of this, your lens doesn’t “see” as much of the scene. The result? Everything looks slightly more zoomed in.

Think of it like cropping a photo, you’re using the same lens, but a smaller sensor gives you a tighter, more focused image.

What does this mean in practice?

• Zoomed-In Effect: A 50mm lens on a crop sensor acts more like a 75mm lens. Great for portraits or close-ups, but less ideal for wide room shots.

• Wider Lenses Aren’t as Wide: A 24mm wide-angle lens will behave more like a 36mm on an APS-C sensor, so you’ll lose some of that wide sweep.

• Full-Frame vs Crop Sensor:
  Full-frame = wider view, more of the scene, better for low light.
  Crop sensor = tighter view, more reach for zooms, generally more affordable.

Joe P’s Top Tip: If you’re using a crop sensor camera, then go wider with your lens choice, to frame your scene properly. Want that classic 50mm look on your Canon R7? Use a 35mm lens instead, it’ll give you a similar field of view and is perfect for tabletop setups, home studios, or small-space filming.

4. Lens Mounts Explained: Not All Lenses Fit All Cameras

Every camera brand uses its own lens mount, which is basically the physical connection between the camera body and the lens. If the mount doesn’t match, the lens won’t fit.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet of the most common camera brands and their matching mounts:

Common Lens Mounts (Mirrorless Systems):

• Sony E-Mount
  Used on: Sony mirrorless cameras (APS-C & Full-Frame)
  Examples: FX3, A7 series, A6000 series, ZV-E10

• Canon RF Mount
  Used on: Canon EOS R series mirrorless (APS-C & Full-Frame)
  Examples: EOS R5/R6, R7/R10

• Nikon Z-Mount
  Used on: Nikon mirrorless (APS-C & Full-Frame)
  Examples: Z5/Z6, Z50/Z30

• L-Mount (Leica/Panasonic/Sigma)
  Used on: Full-Frame mirrorless cameras
  Examples: Panasonic Lumix S5 II, Leica SL2

• Fujifilm X-Mount
  Used on: Fujifilm mirrorless (APS-C only)
  Examples: X-T5, X-S20, X-H2

• Micro Four Thirds (MFT)
  Used on: Olympus/OM SYSTEM and Panasonic
  Examples: OM-5, GH5 II, BMPCC 4K
  Sensor: Smaller than APS-C, great for portability & affordability.

Common Lens Mounts (DSLR Systems):

• Canon EF Mount
  Used on: Canon DSLRs (Full-Frame & APS-C)
  Examples: Canon 90D, 5D Mark IV
  Note: Now being phased out for RF, but still widely used.

• Canon EF-S Mount
  Used on: Canon DSLRs (APS-C only)
  Examples: Canon Rebel T7, 250D, 90D
  Note:  EF-S lenses do not work on full-frame Canon cameras.

• Nikon F-Mount
  Used on: Nikon DSLRs (APS-C & Full-Frame)
  Examples: D7500, D850
  Note: Still widely available in the second-hand market.

• Pentax K-Mount
  Used on: Pentax DSLRs (APS-C & some Full-Frame)
  Examples: Pentax K-70, K-1 II

Just a heads up, some cameras also accept adapted lenses via mount adapters (like EF-to-RF or EF-to-L). These can be super handy, but keep in mind, you might lose features like fast autofocus or built-in stabilisation.

Joe P’s Top Tip: Before you fall in love with a lens, double-check the mount! Even if an adapter “technically” makes it fit, you could lose focus speed, in-body stabilisation, or even electronic controls. Stick to native lenses for the best results, especially when you're just starting out.

Now that you've got the basics down, it's time to talk about the different types of lenses and what each one brings to the table.

Joe Piddington explaining how camera lenses work for geek culture and fandom content creation covering focal length from ultra wide angle, wide angle, telephoto and super telephoto. Image: ©Studio Binder

step two: how to choose the best

camera lens for your fandom

and geek culture content

Now you’ve nailed the basics of how lenses work, it’s time to dive into the different types of camera lenses out there. Just like lighting or microphones, different lenses suit different scenarios and content types. Whether you’re filming cosplay tutorials, capturing miniature painting sessions, or shooting cinematic shots for a fan film, the lens you choose can make or break your visuals.

So, let’s explore the most popular lens types and how they can level up your fandom video production and video marketing needs.

Prime Lenses
Prime lenses come in a range of different fixed focal length, meaning they don’t zoom, but don’t let that scare you off. These lenses are sharp, bright, and perfect for creating beautiful background bokeh. They’re lightweight and often more affordable than zoom lenses of similar quality.

• Best for: Cosplay portraits, tabletop product shots, and low-light environments like RPG livestreams or product reveals.

• Key Advantage: Exceptional sharpness and low-light performance, ideal for interviews and cinematic shots.

• Considerations: No zoom, so you’ll need to physically move in and out to frame your shot.

Joe P’s Top Tip: Grab a 50mm f/1.8 lens if you’re just starting out. It’s affordable and brilliant for interviews or product shots, and instantly upgrades your visual quality.

Zoom Lenses
Zoom lenses give you a range of focal lengths in one lens, letting you go from wide to tight shots without swapping gear. Great when filming on the fly or covering events with unpredictable action.

• Best for: Conventions, tabletop game recordings and product  reviews.

• Key Advantage: Total flexibility, especially when you need to adjust framing quickly.

• Considerations: Often heavier and larger than primes, with narrower apertures unless you invest in higher-end models.

Joe P’s Top Tip: A 24–70mm zoom is a brilliant all-rounder. It covers everything from wide establishing shots to tight product zooms, perfect for busy creators on the move.

Wide-Angle Lenses
Wide-angle lenses capture more of the scene in one frame, like an action camera only better. They’re ideal for showcasing setups, filming in tight spaces, or making your environment part of the story.

• Best for: Studio walkthroughs, D&D battle map coverage, group cosplay scenes, and epic setup reveals.

• Key Advantage: Lets you show off more in a single shot, making your content immersive and expansive.

• Considerations: Can create distortion at the edges, watch out for stretched faces or bent lines.

Joe P’s Top Tip: Keep your main subject centred to reduce distortion. Or use it creatively for a more stylised, fun effect in gaming or sci-fi content.

Macro Lenses
Macro lenses are designed for extreme close-ups with razor-sharp detail. If your fandom content involves small objects or collectibles, like D&D or Warhammer miniatures you’ll want one in your kit.

• Best for: Pokémon card reveals, dice rolling shots, miniature painting videos, or Magic: The Gathering deck breakdowns.

• Key Advantage: Incredible close-up detail, your viewers will see every texture, brushstroke, and sparkle.

• Considerations: Narrow focus can make filming tricky without a tripod or stabiliser.

Joe P’s Top Tip: If possible, always use a tripod or stand when filming with macro lenses. Even tiny shakes can ruin your focus, stability is everything when showcasing small details.

Joe Piddington talks about how to choose the best camera lenses for filming fandom content for geek culture and pop culture brands, featuring prime lenses, zoom lenses, wide angle lenses and macro lenses. Photo: ©Bogdan Dreava Photography

step three: ultimate reviewing and

buying guide - top lenses for fandom

content and video marketing

Now that you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to upgrade your lenses. With so many options out there, I know it can feel overwhelming, so to make things easier, I’ve put together a curated list of lenses that pair perfectly with my top camera picks. If you haven’t yet chosen a camera, check out my full guide to choosing the best camera for fandom content and video marketing.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a pro-level upgrade, there’s something here for every creator and every budget.

1. Laowa 24mm f/14 2x Macro Probe Lens (Specialty Macro Lens)

Release Year: 2018
Price Range: £1,500 - £1,800 / $1,450 - $1,500
Compatible with: Sony FX3, Panasonic LUMIX DC-S5 II, Canon EOS R7 (pick appropriate mount version)
View the Laowa 24mm Macro Probe (Sony FE mount) on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3GVKovO

Pros:

• Unique Design: Allows for capturing perspectives not possible with conventional lenses.​

• 2x Macro Magnification: Enables extreme close-up shots with extensive depth of field.​

• LED Ring Light: Built-in lighting aids in illuminating subjects.​

• Wide-Angle View: Captures more background, providing context to macro shots.​

Cons:

• High Price Point: Significant investment for a specialty lens.​

• Manual Focus Only: Requires careful handling and patience.​

• Limited Aperture: Fixed at f/14, requiring a lot of extra light.​

Joe P’s Personal Review: The Laowa 24mm f/14 2x Macro Probe Lens is a game-changer for creators looking to capture truly unique shots. Its distinctive design allows for perspectives that are otherwise unachievable, making it perfect for showcasing intricate details of collectibles or creating immersive content. While it comes with a learning curve and a higher price tag, the creative possibilities it offers are limitless.

Joe Piddington talks about his top pick for a macro probe lens, the Laowa 24mm f/14 2x, for fandom and geek culture brands and content creators. Image design: ©Ocean View Studios Ltd / Photography: ©Laowa

2. Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II (Zoom Lens)

Release Year: 2022
Price Range: £1,800 - £2,200 / $2,298 - $2,350
Compatible with: Sony FX3
View the Sony FE 24-70mm on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3F6U99L

Pros:

• Versatile Focal Range: Covers wide-angle to short telephoto, ideal for various shooting scenarios.​

• Constant f/2.8 Aperture: Ensures consistent exposure and depth of field control across the zoom range.​

• Advanced Optics: Delivers exceptional sharpness and clarity.​

• Fast Autofocus: Quick and accurate focusing, crucial for dynamic content.​

• Compact and Lightweight: Improved portability without compromising performance.​

Cons:

• Premium Price: Higher cost may not suit all budgets.​

• No Built-in Image Stabilisation: Relies on in-body stabilisation of the camera.​

Joe P’s Personal Review: The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is a powerhouse lens that offers flexibility and top-tier image quality. Its wide aperture and versatile zoom range make it perfect for capturing everything from vast convention floors to intimate cosplay portraits. If you're serious about your content and ready to invest, this lens won't disappoint.

Joe Piddington talks about his top pick for zoom lens the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II, for fandom and geek culture brands and content creators.
Image design: ©Ocean View Studios Ltd / Photography: ©Sony

3. Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 (Prime Lens)

Release Year: 2021
Price Range: £400 - £500 / $350 - $400
Compatible with: Panasonic LUMIX DC-S5 II
View the Lumix S 50mm on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4dgbLg1

Pros:

• Bright f/1.8 Aperture: Excellent for low-light conditions and achieving beautiful background bokeh.​

• Compact Design: Easy to carry, making it ideal for on-the-go shooting.​

• High-Quality Optics: Delivers sharp and detailed images.​

• Affordable: Offers great performance without breaking the bank.​

Cons:

• No Image Stabilisation: Depends on the camera's in-body stabilisation.​

• Fixed Focal Length: Less versatile than a zoom lens.​

Joe P’s Personal Review: The Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 is a fantastic prime lens that offers impressive image quality at a reasonable price. Its wide aperture is perfect for creating that cinematic look, making your fandom content stand out. Whether you're filming interviews or showcasing collectibles, this lens is a solid choice.

Joe Piddington talks about his top pick for a prime lens, the Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8, for fandom and geek culture brands and content creators. Image design: ©Ocean View Studios Ltd / Photography: ©Panasonic Lumix

4. Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM (Macro Prime Lens)

Release Year: 2018
Price Range: £450 - £550 / $450 - $500
Compatible with: Canon EOS R7
View the Canon RF 35mm on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3S6HMxn

Pros:

• Macro Capabilities: Offers 1:2 macro magnification, perfect for detailed close-ups.​

• Bright f/1.8 Aperture: Great for low-light shooting and achieving shallow depth of field.​

• Image Stabilisation: Reduces camera shake for sharper images.​

• Lightweight and Compact: Easy to handle and carry.​

Cons:

• No Weather Sealing: Requires caution in adverse conditions.​

• Moderate Autofocus Speed: Not the fastest in Canon's lineup.​

Joe P’s Personal Review: The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM is a versatile lens that excels in both macro photography and general shooting. Its ability to capture intricate details makes it ideal for photographing collectibles, while the wide aperture allows for beautiful portraits. A valuable addition to any Canon EOS R7 user's kit.

Joe Piddington talks about his top pick for a macro prime lens, the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM, for fandom and geek culture brands and content creators. Image design: ©Ocean View Studios Ltd / Photography: ©Canon

5. Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM (Prime Lens)

Release Year: 2020
Price Range: £200 – £250 / $200 - $250
Compatible with: Canon EOS R7
View the Canon RF 50mm on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4jXo5V3

Pros:

• Affordable: Excellent value for money, making it a fantastic upgrade from the standard kit lens.

• Bright f/1.8 Aperture: Perfect for low-light filming and getting that gorgeous background bokeh.

• Lightweight Build: Super compact and easy to carry around for creators on the go.

• Sharp Image Quality: Delivers crisp detail that punches well above its price point.

• STM Autofocus Motor: Smooth and quiet focusing, ideal for video content without audio distractions.

Cons:

• Plastic Build: Feels less premium than higher-end lenses, but still solid.

• No Image Stabilisation: You’ll want to rely on the EOS R7’s in-body stabilisation for handheld shooting.

Joe P’s Personal Review:
The Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM is a no-brainer upgrade for beginner creators on a budget. It’s lightweight, sharp, and gives your content that cinematic feel. Whether you're filming cosplay reactions, TCG card breakdowns, or tabletop tutorials, this lens is a massive step up from your kit lens, without destroying your wallet.

Joe Piddington talks about his top pick for a prime lens, the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM, for fandom and geek culture brands and content creators. Image design: ©Ocean View Studios Ltd / Photography: ©Canon

choosing the perfect lens

for your fandom content

It’s time to level up your video production game! Whether you’re capturing close-up card pulls, wide-angle cosplay shoots, or cinematic tabletop showdowns, the right lens will bring your fandom vision to life.

Ready to get started? Grab your new lens using the links above, every purchase made through them helps support this blog and keeps the fandom production advice flowing (at no extra cost to you). Thanks for being awesome!

Have a favourite lens you swear by, or tried one of the ones listed here? Drop a comment and let me know what gear you’re using! Share your latest setup or behind-the-scenes shots, and let’s help each other create killer content.

Meet Joe Piddington a creative director, producer, and lifelong fandom nerd. Helping geek and pop culture brands with video production and social media marketing. ©Ocean View Studios Ltd

And don’t forget, this blog gets updated regularly with fresh lens picks, new gear drops, and video marketing tips tailored for creators, streamers, and pop culture businesses.

Catch you in the next one. Happy filmmaking! - Joe Piddington