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Ancient Optics’ Petzvalux primes are a full set of fast, full frame, modern optics, based on vintage optical designs, that are all user-tunable! There is truly nothing else like them.
The concept begins with using the original Petzval optical design as a starting point. In the past we have only had the “Petzval look” in lenses that are roughly 58mm or 85mm. Now there are 5 focal lengths, expanding the set both wider and longer, all matching in regards to character, sharpness, contrast, flare, etc.
One of the most exciting features is the “3rd ring,” which allows the user to control many of the lenses characteristics, mainly spherical aberration. This allows the user control over edge sharpness, fall-off, bokeh character, and even contrast. Each lens has a tuning ring, with 7 well-spaced out presets. So you can be sure to get consistent looks shot after shot, lens to lens.
Petzval lenses have gained a lot of popularity for the beautiful look they give to portraiture. The swirly backgrounds leads your attention to the center of frame. The look can be extreme or subtle based on T stop, tuning, and distance from camera to subject, and subject to background. Flare character is lovely, and center sharpness is excellent, with falloff in the corners.
NOTE: the photo above is of the original prototype set. The 27mm has since been updated and improved, and now has a 136mm front OD. New photos coming soon!
SAMPLE VIDEOS
Petzvalux Primes + ARRI Alexa Mini LF
Petzvalux Prototype 38, 55, 80 + ARRI Alexa Mini LF