Angenieux Type EZ zoom lens series (15-40mm, 22-60mm, 30-90mm) with 60% weight reduction versus Optimo line, constant T2.9 aperture, Super35 coverage.
Technical Details
The Type EZ lenses weigh between 1.2 kg (15-40mm) and 1.8 kg (30-90mm) with a length of 162mm to 178mm. All variants feature a uniform front diameter of 114mm and support PL and EF mounts via interchangeable adapters. The optical design is based on 16-20 lens elements in 11-14 groups, depending on the focal length. The minimum focusing distance ranges from 0.8m to 1.2m, and the filter diameter is 112mm. All lenses fully cover the Super35 format and are equipped with 0.8 pitch gears for follow focus systems.
History & Development
Angenieux first presented the Type EZ series in 2013 at NAB in Las Vegas in response to the growing demand for lighter zoom lenses for digital cinema cameras. Development took four years and aimed to offer the proven Angenieux optics in significantly more compact housings. In 2015, the 30-90mm was added, followed by the 15-40mm in 2017. The series received a Technical Achievement Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2014.
Practical Use in Film
The Type EZ lenses quickly established themselves in the independent film scene and among documentary filmmakers. Cinematographer Roger Deakins used the 22-60mm for handheld sequences in "Blade Runner 2049" (2017). Their compact dimensions allow them to be used on gimbal systems like the MōVI Pro without additional weight distribution. For Steadicam shots, the inertia is noticeably reduced compared to conventional zoom lenses. The constant aperture throughout the entire zoom range eliminates exposure jumps during shooting.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to the heavier Angenieux Optimo lenses (4-6 kg), the EZ series offers 60% less weight with comparable optical quality. Canon and Fujinon offer similar approaches with their Compact series, but do not achieve the same aperture as the Type EZ. While Cooke S7/i prime lenses surpass the optical performance, they often require more frequent lens changes. For productions with limited budgets, Sigma Cine zooms represent a more cost-effective alternative, albeit with compromises in build quality and optical consistency.