Panavision has introduced a new line of Primo lenses, the Primo V series, designed for high-resolution 35mm digital cameras. The Primo V uses the lens elements from existing Primo lenses and aims to maximise digital image quality, bringing the look and feel of Panavision Primos to digital cinematography.
Patent pending modifications of the Primo V lenses eliminate the coma, astigmatism and other aberrations introduced by the additional glass between the lens and sensor, while preserving image characteristics of the Primo optics. The result is an image which appears more balanced centre-to-edge.
“Panavision’s unmatched optical expertise and high-quality manufacturing capabilities have now been brought to bear on lenses adapted for digital cameras,” commented Kim Snyder, Panavision’s CEO. “We’re focused on providing cinematographers with the best tools to tell their stories with vision and creativity. With the industry’s ongoing transition to digital capture, we want our customers to know they can continue to trust Panavision to bring innovative, world-class solutions to the marketplace.”
The Primo V lenses are compatible with any digital camera equipped with PL or Panavision 35 mount systems. The lenses retain the Primo characteristics, meaning imagery from Primo V and standard Primo lenses will intercut well. A set of Primo V primes includes 14.5, 17.5, 21, 27, 35, 40, 50, 75 and 100mm focal lengths.
“Cinematographers tell us that the hyper-sharp sensors in today’s digital cameras can result in images that are harsh and lack personality,” said Panavision’s VP of Optical Engineering Dan Sasaki. “That’s one reason why there’s so much emphasis on glass these days. The Primo V lenses bring the smooth, organic flavor of Primo lenses to the high fidelity digital image. Our philosophy is to take what cinematographers love about the Primos, and update them for the digital world.”
