Carl Zeiss has unveiled new Lightweight Zoom designed for PL cine cameras and HDSLRs with APS-C format sensors like the Canon 7D, Rebel T2i, Nikon D300s and D90. While the press release from Zeiss does not provide a zoom range, it appears to be the same as the former LWZ-1 lens at 15.5-45mm. The LWZ.2 comes with interchangeable mounts in PL, EF and F-mount flavors, which allows a triple purpose for those working with different cameras on a project or across projects.
More details in the press release below.
OBERKOCHEN, April 12th, 2010 –Whether shooting in an airplane or from inside a car, filming action scenes, or capturing the tranquility and color of underwater life – whenever the size and weight of a camera are decisive, filmmakers need equipment that can perform reliably and precisely. Filmmakers also need flexibility so they can choose the right camera and lens for every setting. Optics specialist Carl Zeiss now introduces a new lens that satisfies all of these needs: the Lightweight Zoom LWZ.2.
The innovation in camera technology over the last few years has been tremendous. Today, photographers and cinematographers can find the perfect camera for every imaginable shot. The use of high-definition digital SLRs has also grown rapidly. The new-generation Lightweight Zoom by Carl Zeiss reflects this trend toward ever-greater flexibility. It comes with interchangeable mounts that allow the lenses to be used with a wide range of cameras, from traditional cine to HDSLR systems. Three different mounts are available: PL, EF and F mount. The LWZ.2 covers the ANSI Super 35 image area (24.9 x 18.7mm / 0.980 x 0.7362’’).
Weighing in at around two kilograms, the LWZ.2 is especially suitable for handheld or Steadycam shots with traditional cine cameras but also with HDSLRs. Still cinematographers can continue to rely on the high optical image quality that ZEISS cine lenses are known for.
The LWZ.2 features radically shaped spherical glass surfaces with a very strong curvature, which guarantee high optical performance. Large-diameter aspherical lens elements keep the lens light while at the same time reducing spherical aberrations and keeping the image free of distortions. Straight lines stay straight, from infinity to close-ups and over the entire zoom range. The T* XP multi-layer anti-reflex coating reduces flare and internal reflections, resulting in pleasing and gentle colors, high contrasts and deep blacks. With its precision, flexibility and light weight, the LWZ.2 gives cinematographers everything they need to excel at every assignment.
Carl Zeiss will present the new lens at the NAB show in Las Vegas (April 10-15) together with the second generation of the Compact Prime lens family CP.2. They, too, come with interchangeable mounts, enabling cinematographers to switch between different camera systems.
[…] Carl Zeiss comes back to the camera lens market by releasing the new Lightweight Zoom lens for filmmakers. The lens features interchangeable mounts that allow it to be used with a wide range of cameras, from traditional cine to HDSLR systems. Weighing in at approx. 2Kg, the Carl Zeiss Lightweight Zoom LWZ.2 features radically shaped spherical glass surfaces with a very strong curvature. Large-diameter aspherical lens elements keep the lens light while at the same time reducing spherical aberrations and keeping the image free of distortions. Three different mounts are available such as PL, EF and F mount. [Photography Bay] […]