Let’s dig deeper to discover how these new lenses will help full-frame compositions.
Large-format cinematography is still fairly new when compared to the long history of cinema. Only recently has it become a staple in film and television, with the rise of video-capable DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, as well as the return of VistaVision.
Tokina already has an impressive range of lenses in its Vista Prime product line. They just announced two new additions, the 21mm T1.5 and 29mm T1.5.
The Tokina Vista Primes
The current Vista Prime lens range includes the 18mm T1.5, 25mm T1.5, 35mm T1.5, 40mm T1.5, 50mm T1.5, 65mm T1.5, 85mm T1.5, 105mm T1.5 and 135mm T1.5.
With the addition of the 21mm and 29mm T1.5, the complete set sits at a whopping 11 lenses. This gives incredible power to cinematographers shooting on large-format cameras such as the RED V-Raptor and Monstro, the ARRI Alexa Mini LF, Canon C500 mkII, Sony VENICE, and FX9.
Tokina Vista Prime Lens RangeCredit: Tokina
If you're looking for more budget-friendly options, any camera that can accommodate the 46.7mm image circle of the PL and EF mount versions will work. However, if you're shooting with the MFT version of these lenses, you are limited to an image circle of 40.8mm.
The Vista Primes also work exceedingly well on any Super35 format camera. With the lenses available in ARRI PL, Canon EF, MFT, Sony E, and ARRI LPL mounts, these lenses are an incredibly versatile option for filmmakers.
The New Additions
The 21mm and 29mm fill out the wide-angle range in the Vista Prime line. Both lenses feature a nine-bladed iris, 112mm front filter thread, and 114mm outside diameter. They match in weight to the other lenses in the line, making them easy to balance for gimbal and Steadicam work.
When configured in PL mount, the 21mm comes in at 2.33kg (5.14 lbs) and the 29mm T1.5 weighs 2.25kg (4.96 lbs).
Tokina 21mm and 29mm Vista PrimesCredit: Tokina
Lens distortion and chromatic aberration are well-controlled, and both lenses exhibit practically no focus breathing. If you’re as suspicious as we were, DP Phil Holland took these lenses for a spin to show them off. Check out his findings in the video below.
Both the 21mm and 29mm are available to order and start at $7,499 USD each.
Tokina 21mm T1.5 Vista Prime (PL Mount)
- Covers Full-Frame Sensor Size
- 46.7mm Image Circle
- Suitable for 8K Image Capture
- Internal Focus Design
- Virtually No Lens Breathing
- T1.5 Aperture, Clickless 9-Bladed Iris
- 114mm Front Lens Diameter
- Focus Marks on Both Sides of Barrel
- Integrated Lens Support Foot
Tokina 29mm T1.5 Vista Prime (PL Mount)
- Covers Full-Frame Sensor Size
- 46.7mm Image Circle
- Suitable for 8K Image Capture
- Internal Focus Design
- Virtually No Lens Breathing
- T1.5 Aperture, Clickless 9-Bladed Iris
- 114mm Front Lens Diameter
- Focus Marks on Both Sides of Barrel
- Integrated Lens Support Foot
While these cine primes are a bit more expensive than some budget options, their robust flexibility, build, and image quality are attractive qualities that filmmakers may want to pay for. If you’re looking for other budget options, check out the different cine lenses from Meike, Mitakon Zhongyi, IRIX, Venus Optics, and DZO Film.
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