Best lens length for Master shot?

[MrFluffy]

This works if you have to change shutter speed to expose while keeping the desired aperture (DoF)... (which is only those time where you simply do not have enough light) but I would recommend many other ways, outside of changing the shutter.

I'd warn against using the shutter as the way to control your exposure. This works much better in still photography, but not as well as you can see the effects with greater accuracy when things are in motion. I'd use it as a last resort... tied up there with using gain.

I agree completely. But I figured that he didnt have the budget for more lights etc if hes considering which lens to get

Personally I'll just stick to the stock zoom lens. The DOF is not as good but it frees me up to buy lighting and other equipment before deciding I must have that 35mm look I figure its better to have a well lit good story with a poorer lens, than a poorly lit, good story with a 35mm lens.

Yes, I have a stills background