Introduction to the Primo 65 Lens Series
The newly unveiled Primo 65 lens series by Panavision offers cinematographers a modern toolset tailored for 65mm-format camera sensors. Designed to replicate the celebrated look of Panavisions 35mm-format Primo spherical optics, these lenses provide a seamless transition into the large-format cinematography space. This release underscores Panavisions commitment to expanding its rental lens offerings, ensuring filmmakers have access to tools that cater to diverse creative needs.
Comprehensive Focal Length Range
The Primo 65 series boasts a robust lineup of 12 focal lengths, ranging from 21mm T2 to 225mm T2. Each lens within this set is equipped with Panavisions proprietary SP70 mount, ensuring compatibility with a variety of camera systems. The uniform 4.44-inch (112.8mm) front diameter and standardized focus and iris ring placements simplify lens swaps, minimizing disruption during production. This consistency is particularly advantageous for cinematographers working under tight schedules.
Optical Design and Artistic Aesthetics
Panavision has prioritized an artistic optical approach in the Primo 65 series, steering away from purely mathematical designs. This methodology yields lenses with a clean, high-contrast aesthetic that avoids excessive sharpness. Select aberrations are intentionally preserved to maintain a natural and organic image quality. These characteristics are particularly beneficial for close-ups, offering a flattering softness that complements skin tones and facial details.
Enhanced Features for Modern Workflows
The Primo 65 lenses incorporate advanced features tailored to contemporary filmmaking needs. Improved breathing control ensures seamless integration with visual effects workflows, reducing any disruptive image shifts during focus pulls. The lenses also produce a round bokeh with a subtle cats eye effect at frame edges, adding depth and visual interest. Additionally, the multiband flare is designed to create an aesthetically pleasing cascade without becoming intrusive.
Legacy and Continuity
Building on the legacy of the original Primo lenses, introduced in the late 1980s, the Primo 65 series retains key elements of Panavisions optical innovation. The internal layout mirrors the optomechanical design of its predecessors, offering consistent contrast and focus falloff. According to Dan Sasaki, Panavisions senior VP of optical engineering, these lenses are a true extension of the 35mm-format Primos, maintaining the brands commitment to quality and artistry in cinematography tools.