Carl Zeiss introduces cine lenses for DSLRs

Carl Zeiss has introduced a set of cine prime and zoom lenses that offer interchangeable mounts for use with video enabled DSLRs. With a choice of Canon EF, Nikon F and Arri PL mount for professional cine cameras, the CP.2 compact primes offer a choice of 18mm to 85mm focal lengths with maximum apertures ranging from T2.1 to T3.6 and can be used on full frame cameras such as Canon 5D Mark II. The LWZ.2 lightweight zoom lenses cover the 'ANSI Super 35' image area (24.9 x 18.7mm) that is a fraction larger than APS-C sensors (24 x 16mm). The lenses will be available from June 2010.



OBERKOCHEN/Germany, 13.04.2010 : The trend of filming in high definition using a digital SLR camera is unstoppable. Moviemaking today is unthinkable without this technique, whether for independent filmmakers, television producers or professional still photographers who wish to expand their services. Optics specialist Carl Zeiss now introduces the world’s first set of cine lenses designed especially for HDSLR cameras: the Compact Prime CP.2 lenses.

Why change the mount on the camera when you can change it on the lens? The Compact Prime CP.2 lenses deliver great flexibility by introducing interchangeable mounts that allow the lenses to be used with a wide range of cameras, from traditional cine to HDSLR systems. Available with three different mounts – PL, EF and F – this new family of ZEISS lenses enables cinematographers to be completely free in their choice of camera systems while ensuring a high consistency of images. Furthermore, the lenses can be upgraded to any number of existing or future cine and still cameras while enabling cinematographers to still utilize the same set of lenses.

Like their predecessors, the Compact Prime CP.2 lenses are made for a rigorous life on the set. The ergonomics have been improved compared to standard SLR lenses. The lenses’ cine-style housing dimensions, focus and iris gear positions, and front diameter are the same for the standard lens set. The longer focus rotation and the possibility for manual focus give users the flexibility they demand. The iris opening consists of 14 high-precision blades, which stay consistently round and symmetrical over the entire T-stop range. This translates into natural and pleasing out-of-focus highlights and a smooth bokeh. Together, they help create and capture special moments on film. The modern lens design and tight tolerances ensure low distortion, high resolution and excellent color rendition for sharp, punchy images.

The Compact Prime CP.2 lenses cover a full-frame 24 x 36 image format without vignetting. They will be based around a common aperture of T2.1 for the standard set, which is an improvement over the first generation of lenses.

Carl Zeiss will present these new lenses for the first time at the NAB show in Las Vegas (April 10-15). They will be available from June 2010.

Light, precise and flexible as never before



OBERKOCHEN/Germany, 13.04.2010 : Whether shooting in an airplane or from inside a car, filming action scenes, or capturing the tranquility and color of underwater life — whenever the size and weight of a camera are decisive, filmmakers need equipment that can perform reliably and precisely. Filmmakers also need flexibility so they can choose the right camera and lens for every setting. Optics specialist Carl Zeiss now introduces a new lens that satisfies all of these needs: the Lightweight Zoom LWZ.2.

The innovation in camera technology over the last few years has been tremendous. Today, photographers and cinematographers can find the perfect camera for every imaginable shot. The use of high-definition digital SLRs has also grown rapidly. The new-generation Lightweight Zoom by Carl Zeiss reflects this trend toward ever-greater flexibility. It comes with interchangeable mounts that allow the lenses to be used with a wide range of cameras, from traditional cine to HDSLR systems. Three different mounts are available: PL, EF and F mount. The LWZ.2 covers the ANSI Super 35 image area (24.9 x 18.7mm / 0.980’’ x 0.7362’’).

Weighing in at around two kilograms, the LWZ.2 is especially suitable for handheld or Steadycam shots with traditional cine cameras but also with HDSLRs. Still cinematographers can continue to rely on the high optical image quality that ZEISS cine lenses are known for.

The LWZ.2 features radically shaped spherical glass surfaces with a very strong curvature, which guarantee high optical performance. Large-diameter aspherical lens elements keep the lens light while at the same time reducing spherical aberrations and keeping the image free of distortions. Straight lines stay straight, from infinity to close-ups and over the entire zoom range. The T* XP multi-layer anti-reflex coating reduces flare and internal reflections, resulting in pleasing and gentle colors, high contrasts and deep blacks. With its precision, flexibility and light weight, the LWZ.2 gives cinematographers everything they need to excel at every assignment.

Carl Zeiss will present the new lens at the NAB show in Las Vegas (April 10-15) together with the second generation of the Compact Prime lens family CP.2. They, too, come with interchangeable mounts, enabling cinematographers to switch between different camera systems.