Anamorphic lenses have become synonymous with cinematic visuals and the unique "widescreen" look we often associate with movies. But what exactly is an anamorphic lens? What is the meaning of "anamorphic lenses"? In simple terms, an anamorphic lens is a specialized lens that squeezes the horizontal field of view, capturing a wider scene onto a standard camera sensor. This compression creates a distinct aspect ratio, typically characterized by a wider width and a narrower height.
The definition of an anamorphic lens becomes clear when compared with other types of lenses. Unlike traditional lenses that capture images in a 1:1 aspect ratio, anamorphic lenses provide a more immersive and cinematic experience by expanding the horizontal field of view. When combined with a corresponding lens adapter or a camera with built-in anamorphic capabilities, these lenses unlock a world of creative possibilities.
The main purpose of an anamorphic lens is to recreate the aesthetics and visual language of the cinematic world. By capturing a wider frame, anamorphic lenses offer a more expansive view of the scene, emphasizing the grandeur, depth, and scale of the subject matter. They create a sense of depth and dimensionality, with unique lens flares and characteristic bokeh, enhancing the overall visual storytelling.
Anamorphic lenses are commonly used in filmmaking to achieve that classic cinematic look, but they are also increasingly popular in the world of photography, allowing photographers to add a touch of cinematic magic to their still images. With anamorphic lenses, you can capture breathtaking landscapes, mesmerizing portraits, and captivating street scenes, all with a distinct cinematic flair.
Let’s look at an example. The SIRUI Venus 135mm T2.9 1.8x is a remarkable anamorphic lens designed for professional photographers and filmmakers. This lens is an excellent choice for those who are looking to add a cinematic touch to their images and videos.
One of the standout features of the Venus 135mm lens is its classic blue flare. When pointed directly at a light source, this lens produces the signature blue lens flares that anamorphic lenses are known for, adding a sprinkle of magic to your image.
The lens also produces captivating oval bokeh, thanks to its horizontal squeeze of the image. The long horizontal lens flares and oval bokeh features are unique to anamorphic images and are sure to captivate viewers.
Furthermore, the 135mm lens has a shallower depth of field, smoother blurred backgrounds, and better foreground separation than other focal lengths in the lineup. This lens performs well optically with high sharpness and low distortion. The 135mm lens is equivalent to a 75mm horizontally, making it a great choice for portraits, landscapes, products, and more. The extra reach allows you to frame the subject properly without having to stand very close to it. The subject and the background appear to be compressed together onto the same plane. The 135mm lens features a 1.8x squeeze design for a more pronounced anamorphic look, with smoothly blurred backgrounds and elongated oval bokeh.
The Venus 135mm lens is available in Sony E mount, Canon RF mount, Leica L mount and Nikon Z mount, making it compatible with a wide range of cameras. Its compact design is also worth noting, as it is the smallest 135mm 1.8x full-frame anamorphic lens available on the market.
When it comes to image quality, the Venus 135mm lens is sharp without being clinically sharp. Chromatic aberration and focus breathing are very well controlled, producing stunning image quality that is sure to impress.
In conclusion, the SIRUI Venus 135mm T2.9 1.8x is an excellent anamorphic lens that is well-suited for professional photographers and filmmakers. In many ways, it is the definition of an anamorphic lens. Its classic blue flare, captivating oval bokeh, and superior image quality make it a great choice for those looking to add a cinematic touch to their images and videos. Its compatibility with various camera mounts and compact design also make it a versatile and practical option for a wide range of shooting scenarios.