Prime lenses, also known as fixed focal length lenses, are a staple in the arsenal of any professional filmmaker. These lenses have a fixed focal length and are known for their sharpness, fast apertures, and excellent image quality. They offer a level of control and precision that is unmatched by zoom lenses, making them a go-to choice for many professional cinematographers. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most popular prime lenses used in the film industry and the unique characteristics that make them stand out.
Zeiss Planar T* 50mm f/1.4
The Zeiss Planar T* 50mm f/1.4 is a classic lens that has been used in the film industry for decades. It is known for its sharpness, excellent bokeh, and fast aperture. The lens is also relatively lightweight and compact, making it a great choice for handheld shooting. The 50mm focal length is a versatile choice for a wide range of shooting scenarios and is often referred to as the “normal” lens. This means it provides a field of view that is similar to what the human eye sees, making it great for capturing a wide variety of subjects including landscapes, portraits, and street photography.
One of the main advantages of the Zeiss Planar T* 50mm f/1.4 is its fast aperture of f/1.4. This allows for a shallow depth of field, which can be used to create a sense of separation between the subject and the background. This is particularly useful in portrait and fashion photography, where the focus on the subject’s eyes can make a huge impact. Additionally, the bokeh produced by this lens is smooth and pleasing to the eye, which adds a level of beauty and elegance to the image.
Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
The Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM is a popular lens among portrait photographers and filmmakers. It has a fast aperture of f/1.2, which allows for a shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh. The 85mm focal length is ideal for portraits as it allows for a comfortable working distance and a flattering perspective. This is because it provides a longer focal length than a 50mm lens, which helps to compress the features of the face, making them look more proportionate.
The lens also features a fast and silent USM autofocus motor, which is perfect for capturing candid moments. This feature is especially useful for portrait photography and videography, as it allows for fast and accurate focus tracking of a moving subject. Additionally, the lens is also weather-sealed, making it an ideal choice for outdoor shoots.
Leica Summilux-C 50mm f/1.4
The Leica Summilux-C 50mm f/1.4 is a high-end lens that is known for its exceptional image quality. It has a fast aperture of f/1.4 and is designed for use with large format digital and film cameras. The lens is also compatible with a range of other cameras via adapters. The 50mm focal length is ideal for a wide range of shooting scenarios, and the fast aperture allows for a shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh.
One of the main advantages of the Leica Summilux-C 50mm f/1.4 is its image quality. The lens is designed to provide a high level of sharpness and clarity, which is essential for capturing fine details and textures. Additionally, the lens also has a high level of color accuracy, which helps to produce a natural and pleasing image.
Nikon Nikkor 50mm f/1.4G
The Nikon Nikkor 50mm f/1.4G is a popular lens among photographers and filmmakers alike. It has a fast aperture of f/1.4 and is known for its sharpness and excellent bokeh. The 50mm focal length is a versatile choice for a wide range of shooting scenarios and is often referred to as the “normal” lens. The lens also features a silent wave motor (SWM) for fast and accurate autofocus. This lens is also great for low light situations, allowing you to shoot with a wide aperture even in low light conditions.
