In my role as a Director of Photography, I am always looking for new tools to effectively convey a story. In this case, I wanted to highlight anamorphic lenses. They offer you a different perspective, another way to visualize a tale. We are used to seeing a majority of productions on film or television with spherical lenses which show the world from a naturalistic point of view. Each anamorphic set comes with its own characteristics, flares, and imperfections; some can even make you feel you’re in another world. I personally lean towards neutral tones, trying to not flare my lenses as much when I am shooting with anamorphic. This is why I wanted a first look at these DZOFILM Pavo lenses to see what they offer.
DZOFILM Pavo Anamorphic Full Lens Set
Right now DZOFilm has released nine lenses in this series: 28mm T2.1, 32mm T2.1, 40mm T2.1, 55mm T2.1, 75mm T2.1, and 100mm T2.4. All of which can be purchased in a set. In addition to these, there is a 65mm T2.8 with macro capabilities, a 130mm T2.5, and a 180mm T2.8. With these options, you can put together a very comprehensive and affordable anamorphic lens kit for specific APS-C or Super 35 Cameras. Consider the types of production shoots you need them for and build from there.
Budget vs Accessible
The term “Budget Anamorphic Lenses” has become more common recently. The term “budget” can be used interchangeably with “accessible,” as these lenses make anamorphic filming more accessible to filmmakers who want to expand their toolkit without spending a substantial amount of money.
As if the look of these lenses wasn’t impressive enough, the built quality matches the level.
“True” Anamorphic
These lenses have a 2X compression ratio, which some consider “True” anamorphic lenses. This means that they are capable of delivering a 2.39:1 aspect ratio. Traditionally, that has been tied to the anamorphic look. This particular aspect ratio allows you to play more with composition and gives you a grandeur feel more akin to the movies of old.
Sizing
The Pavo Anamorphic lenses actually manage to be compact and lightweight, where every lens in the set weighs between 2.6 lbs and 4.8 lbs. Which makes them suitable for gimbal or steady-cam work. On top of that, they all have a 95mm front diameter which is very convenient when using a snap-on matte box. Adding to the versatility of these lenses, are Interchangeable mounts in PL and EF which means it multiplies your options for cameras.
Anamorphic Macro
The Pavo 65mm macro lens has a 14.4″ close focus distance and a 1:2 magnification ratio. This to me, can be a game-changing feature, especially in an anamorphic set. The close-up capability, reminiscent of spherical lenses, combined with the 2X compression ratio, produces remarkably dramatic close-up shots. Opening up new creative possibilities and artistic expression for filmmakers.
Wrapped Up in a Pelican
I wish I had more time for additional testing with these lenses and potentially use them on a film or commercial shoot. It would have been ideal to have more frames to work with, but I have been impressed by the minimal flare produced by these lenses. What sets this lens apart is that it can be ordered with either a warm or blue flare.
DZOFILM has done an amazing job in creating this extensive lens set. I would recommend these lenses to anyone interested in exploring anamorphic filmmaking. Despite being relatively inexpensive and considered a budget-friendly option in the anamorphic world, I believe they deserve more credit. I fully recommend that you try them out to see if they suit your style and needs. Plus, my set came in a hard case, which means they were nicely packaged and protected. Ready for me to just pick up and go!
