BTS and first hands on the 45mm, & 85mm lenses
I think we ran out of words to describe new tools, especially new lenses. Like using the word game changer or "Cinematic" to have people click on your videos. Like many of you, I'm just passionate about creating images. All I'm interested in is what these tools can do for me. I usually go on YouTube or Vimeo to see what some of you have been able to achieve with this or that tool.
Let's do the same with the LAOWA proteus anamorphic lenses!
The Laowa Proteus Series is the most accessible professional anamorphic lens for Super 35 sensors with a 2X constant squeeze ratio. These are not my words, but that was enough for me to get me excited hoping to get my hands on them and test them. Like I said in the intro, I saw a few images here and there, kind of liked what I saw, and that’s it. The next step was obvious, I had to get my hands on them!
This series comes in 8 focal lengths 20/28/35/45/60/85/100/135 they feature a universal T2 aperture, delivering the classic anamorphic characteristics including elliptical bokeh and signature flares with blue, amber, and silver options.
Minimum focusing distance is 55cm minimum, delivered in PL mount and an interchangeable EF bayonet is included in the package.
A hard case is also included… and I had the pleasure of working with the 45 and 85mm lenses.
For more info about the PROTEUS series:
And that’s I believe all you need to know about them... They are heavy of course, but seem to be built to last. I tested them with the Fujifilm XH2s, and I have to say, I was surprised by the results!
Here is one of the two micro-shot dance film we made with the lenses:
- Nemesis -
Choreography and performance by Jessica Fyfe
- Unraveling -
Music by Liam Back Special
A film crafted by Haze Kware
1st AC Marlène Blackdough
Filmed in Toulouse
Shot with the XH2s and LAOWA Proteus Anamorphic Lenses
Huge thanks to: LAOWA & Astrid Béteille
I haven’t seen these lenses available for rent in my area yet, and I hope they will. At this price point, this would be a nice option for indie filmmakers who wish to go anamorphic on one of their projects, without breaking the bank.
We used the same apartment but with two different dancers, on two separate days. It's crazy how the personality of a dancer can change the writing of a piece and lead to a completely different video.
- P.O.V -
Dancer & Choreographer: Paloma Giinestar
A film crafted by Haze Kware 1st AC: Marlène Blackdough
Music:
- Breathe (Violin solo) -
Music by Sebastian Kauderer
Filmed in Toulouse
Shot with the XH2s and LAOWA Proteus Anamorphic Lenses
Huge thanks to: LAOWA & Astrid Béteille
I do love the feel and look overall of these lenses, even if the size and weight don’t suit my usual run-and-gun style. But I can see myself considering these if a bigger project requires a set of Anamorphic lenses.
Seems like a lot of people are now going anamorphic… will you?