This Laowa Proteus Flex 2x Anamorphic 85mm T2 Lens from Venus Optics is a slender, compact anamorphic lens that captures high-definition video with 2x anamorphic squeeze on cameras with S35+ sensors such as the ALEXA 35 and RED V-RAPTOR. The Flex series differs from the main Proteus line by offering an interchangeable flare module to achieve different looks with your footage. It features a focal length of 85mm, interchangeable PL and EF lens mounts, an aperture range of T2 to T22 for a deep depth of field, 10 iris blades for a shallow depth of field and soft bokeh, and a 2x anamorphic squeeze to capture a vintage, cinema-style anamorphic look. Using an optional 1.4x full-frame expander adapter, Proteus lenses can also cover a full-frame sensor.
The prime lens has a minimum focus distance of 82 cm and offers anamorphic qualities such as high contrast, silver color lens flares, and a 33.9° horizontal field of view. You can swap between separately available flare modules in blue, amber, or clear. Other features include measurement markings in meters, 0.8 MOD cine gears on focus and aperture rings, a 114mm outer diameter, and a 105mm front filter thread. The ARRI PL lens mount is interchangeable and can be swapped out for the included EF mount bayonet.
Constant 2x Squeeze Ratio
With a 2x squeeze ratio, you will have a 2.66:1 on a 4:3 sensor and a 2.4:1 on a 6:5 sensor after de-squeeze. It provides room for cropping to a golden 2.39:1 aspect ratio. The 2x squeeze ratio yields an ultra-widescreen cinematic look desired by the film industry. The squeeze ratio remains constant at any focusing distance to avoid anamorphic mumps.
Large Aperture
Featuring a T2 aperture, the fast aperture supports filmmakers to shoot in low-light conditions. It also creates a shallow depth of field with a waterfall-like focus roll-off.
Sharpness
Impressive sharpness and contrast at wide-open, Laowa Proteus Flex Series satisfies demanding film production requirements.
Close Focusing Distance
The lens can focus at a minimum distance of 82 cm away from the object, creating sharp close-up cinematic scenes at ease.
Pleasant Bokeh
Elliptical bokeh is produced in the out-of-focus area, which is a signature anamorphic character for the strong cinematic look. The bokeh in 2x squeeze ratio is prominently thinner and longer.
Silver Anamorphic Flare Color
Compared to the more common blue flare, the silver flare is a neutral-colored flare that provides more control over the flare color. Its color changes according to the light source, and it can be relatively subtler and less distracting. The Flex series offers an interchangeable module with separately available blue, amber, and a new clear option for further customization.
Low Focus Breathing
Both changes in the angle of view and framing are kept at a minimum when adjusting the focus.
Sensor Coverage
Having S35+ sensor coverage, Laowa Proteus Flex supports the ARRI ALEXA 35 sensor in 2.39:1 ratio and RED V-RAPTOR sensor in 7K 6:5 ANA. With an optional 1.4x full-frame adapter, Proteus can cover full-frame sensors with sharpness and image quality.
Unified Gear Position
The unified gear position allows users to switch lenses quickly and without readjustment on the focus gear.
0.8 MOD Gears
Industry-standard 0.8 MOD gears are installed on both the aperture and focus rings.
Specifications
- Maximum Aperture: T2
- Minimum Aperture: T22
- Lens Mount: ARRI PL Canon EF with Included Adapter
- Horizontal Squeeze (Anamorphic): 2x
- Flare Color: Silver
- Lens Format Coverage: Super35/APS-C
- Image Circle: 25.9 mm, 21.6 mm
- Angle of View: Super 35 Horizontal: 33.9°, Vertical: 14.5°
- Focus Scales: Metric
- Optical Design: 18 Elements in 13 Groups
- Filter Thread: 105 mm
- Minimum Focus Distance: 82 cm
- Diaphragm Blades: 10
- Image Stabilization: No
- Gear Standard: 0.8 MOD
- Gear Rotation: Focus: 300°, Iris: 60°
- Electronic Communication: No
- Diameter: 114 mm
- Length: 240 mm
- Weight: 2.95 kg
