FUJIFILM Delivers Compact Cinema Lenses for X Series Cameras
The new FUJINON MKX18-55mmT2.9 and FUJINON MKX50-135mmT2.9 lenses for X Mount combine lightweight, compact design with the optical performance and operability of larger, conventional cinema lenses. Using the short flange focal distance of X Mount, they cover 18 to 135mm, the most frequently used range of focal lengths for video production. These are the first full manual cinema lenses to be compatible with the X Series interchangeable lens digital cameras.
The lenses both achieve maximum aperture of F2.8 and minimum aperture of F22 for close-up shots, and a constant T2.9 aperture across their zoom range, producing a shallow depth of field and attractive bokeh effect. Their optical and mechanical functions are designed to suppress focus shifts while zooming and reduce lens breathing to maintain continuous sharpness.
The consistent performance of the MKX18-55mm and MKX50-135mm through their zoom range, plus their compact design, can help reduce the need to readjust lighting and limit the number of crew required, shortening the shooting time – all of which suit small budget productions. Because the lenses are part of the X Series line of interchangeable lenses, using them with Fujifilm X Series cameras corrects distortion, colour and brightness, and works with Fujifilm’s Film Simulation modes as well.
The optics and mechanics employed in the MKX lenses addresses the time lag sometimes experienced with electrical control systems. Manufacturing techniqes developed for conventional FUJINON cinema lenses was applied to control the optical axis shift while zooming. The front inner-focusing system controls lens breathing, to promote smooth focus over an entire scene. Focus shift is also suppressed when zooming by independently driving the front focusing group and zooming group of lens elements away from each other.
The MKX18-55mm and MKX50-135mm each have three manual rings for independent adjustment of focus, zoom and aperture. The focus ring rotates 200 degrees, which helps focus more precisely when shooting with a shallow depth-of-field. All of the rings have a gear pitch of 0.8 m to allow the use of standard third-party accessories for video production. To make the lenses more versatile, the iris adjustment supports precise, silent exposure and prevents camera shake caused by clicking. They are equipped with a macro function as well for shooting close-ups.
The gears for all three rings are positioned in the same spot on both, so that users don't need to re-position accessories when switching lenses. Also, a photographer only needs one matte box with an 85mm front diameter to work with both lenses, and one filter size with a filter thread of 82mm.
The FUJINON MKX18-55mmT2.9 and MKX50-135mmT2.9 cinema lens will be first be available in North America in June 2018. www.fujifilmusa.com
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