Venus Optics has launched a brand new 20 mm focal size in its Laowa Proteus sequence of 2x anamorphic lenses. The sequence already contains 28 mm, 35 mm, 45 mm, 60 mm, 85 mm and 100 mm lenses, with a 135 mm possibility due by the top of the 12 months. Out of the field, the Proteus lenses have a PL lens mount however include an interchangeable EF mount.
2x anamorphic
The Laowa Proteus anamorphic lenses ship a 2x squeeze issue. In the event you shoot with a digital camera with a 4:3 side ratio sensor, you’ll get a 2.66:1 side ratio video after de-squeezing the picture. Alternatively, with a 6:5 side ratio sensor, you’ll find yourself with a 2.4:1 picture after de-squeezing. That is very near the usual 2.39:1 widescreen side ratio.
As well as, Venus Optics says that the 2x squeeze ratio is fixed at any focus distance. With some anamorphic lenses, the squeeze issue can differ as you modify focus, resulting in optical distortions often known as anamorphic mumps.
Optical design
Picture courtesy: Venus Optics
The Laowa Proteus 2x anamorphic lenses function a entrance anamorphic design for a strong optical composition. Venus Optics says that the lenses ship the picture sharpness of contemporary high quality lenses whereas retaining the classic look of anamorphic traits. These anamorphic options embody elliptical bokeh and signature flares. You’ll be able to select between amber, blue or impartial silver flare coloration choices. There’s additionally a Flex model of the lens the place you may swap the flare coloration your self.
Focus
The Laowa Proteus 2x anamorphic 20mm lens comes with both an imperial or metric focus scale. It’s a totally guide lens, however, as a cinema lens, it additionally incorporates a geared focus ring. The 20 mm lens focuses all the way down to solely 18.9 inches (480 mm). Mixed with the lens’s 104.7-degree subject of view, you will get very dramatic close-up photographs of your topics.
Moreover, the extensive most aperture of T2 means you could obtain a shallow depth of subject with these photographs. Venus Optics says that the Laowa Proteus lenses function low focus respiration as properly, so your picture gained’t change measurement as you pull focus.
Construct
The Laowa Proteus 2x anamorphic lenses are designed for Tremendous 35mm sensors. Nevertheless, you may add a 1.4x expander to make use of the lenses with a full-frame digital camera. The 20 mm lens additionally has a entrance exterior diameter of 114 mm and a 105 mm filter thread. Plus, the geared focus and aperture rings share a constant place throughout all focal lengths within the sequence. Which means that you don’t want to regulate your setup when switching between lenses.
What we predict
It’s nice to see Venus Optics including such a wide-angle lens to the Laowa Proteus 2x anamorphic sequence. The 20 mm anamorphic has a horizontal subject of view equal to a ten mm spherical lens. Mixed with the brief shut focus distance, the brand new lens opens up the probabilities for some very inventive and creative photographs. With a T2 most aperture, additionally, you will be capable of obtain a shallow depth of subject with these close-ups for much more fascinating pictures. The Laowa Proteus lenses aren’t low cost however ship high-quality anamorphic pictures that justify their worth.
Pricing and availability
The Laowa Proteus 2x anamorphic 20mm T2 lens is priced at $4,999 and is offered to order now. The 1.4x full-frame adaptor is $599.
