Introduction
The ARRI Alexa Mini LF brings the sensor performance and aesthetic rendering of the standard Alexa LF into a compact, handheld form factor. It is designed to enable professional large-format cinematography in situations where size and weight are critical – from gimbal shots to tight shooting locations.
History & Development
ARRI introduced the Alexa Mini LF in 2018 in response to the growing demand for large-format cinematography. It followed the successful Alexa Mini (2015) and expanded its concept with the larger sensor format. In 2019, the camera received several firmware updates that added Enhanced Sensitivity Modes and improved codec options. The development directly responded to the renaissance of the 65mm look in the digital age, triggered by films like "The Hateful Eight" (2015).
Practical Use in Film
The Alexa Mini LF has been used in productions such as "1917" (2019, DoP Roger Deakins), "Dune" (2021, DoP Greig Fraser), and "The Batman" (2022, DoP Greig Fraser). The large sensor allows for shallower depth of field at the same focal length, which is particularly appreciated for portraits and close-ups. Typical workflows utilize ARRIRAW for maximum post-production flexibility or ProRes 4444 XQ for faster data processing. Its compact design makes it ideal for gimbal applications, while the LPL mount provides access to modern Signature Prime and DNA lenses.
Comparison & Alternatives
Main competitors include the RED Ranger MONSTRO 8K VV and Sony VENICE. While RED offers higher resolutions, the Alexa Mini LF excels with its typical ARRI color science and lower data overhead. The Sony VENICE offers a similar sensor size but is less compact. Compared to the standard Alexa Mini, it sacrifices Super 35-optimized lenses but gains the more cinematic large-format rendering. The Alexa 35, introduced in 2021, technically replaces it but remains at a higher price point.
Technical Specifications
Sensor & Resolution
| Property | Value |
|---|
| Sensor Type | ALEV III A2X CMOS (Large Format) |
| Sensor Size | 36.70 × 25.54 mm |
| Resolution | 4448 × 3096 Photosites (4.5K native) |
| Photosite Size | 8.25 μm |
| Image Circle | 44.71 mm (LPL Mount) |
Exposure & Dynamic Range
| Property | Value |
|---|
| Native ISO | 800 (nominal) |
| ISO Range | 80-3200 (with ND filters) |
| Dynamic Range | 14+ stops |
| Color Depth | 12-bit / 16-bit |
| Format | Resolution | Max. Framerate | Codec |
|---|
| Open Gate | 4448 × 3096 | 90 fps | ARRIRAW / ProRes 4444 XQ |
| 16:9 | 4448 × 2502 | 90 fps | ARRIRAW / ProRes 4444 XQ |
| 2.39:1 | 4448 × 1862 | 150 fps | ARRIRAW / ProRes 4444 XQ |
| UHD 4K | 3840 × 2160 | 150 fps | ProRes / ARRIRAW |
Recording & Media
| Property | Value |
|---|
| Formats | ARRIRAW, ProRes LT, 422, 422 HQ, 4444, 4444 XQ |
| Storage Medium | CFast 2.0 (2 card slots, hot-swappable) |
| Data Rate (ARRIRAW 4.5K 90fps) | ~2.5 Gbps |
| Recording Time (256GB CFast 2.0) | ~15-20 minutes |
Optics & Mount
| Property | Value |
|---|
| Lens Mount | LPL (ARRI Large Positive Lock) |
| Mount Diameter | 62 mm |
| Flange Focal Distance | 44.71 mm |
| Image Circle Requirement | 44.71 mm |
| Focus Assist | Peaking, False Color, Zebras, Vectorscope |
Physical Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|
| Weight (Body only) | 2.6 kg |
| Weight (with MVF-2 Viewfinder) | ~3.4 kg |
| Dimensions (Body) | 185 × 125 × 140 mm |
| Body Material | Magnesium alloy (corrosion-resistant) |
Power & Operation
| Property | Value |
|---|
| Power Supply | 14.4V Gold Mount or V-Mount batteries |
| Power Consumption | 85-95 W (depending on recording mode) |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +45°C |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to +60°C |
| Relative Humidity | 15-85% (non-condensing) |
Other Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|
| Shutter Type | Electronic shutter (variable exposure time) |
| Shutter Range | 1.8° - 358.2° |
| Framerate Range | 0.75 - 90 fps (Open Gate) |
| Timecode | Timecode In/Out (BNC, XLR) |
| Monitoring | MVF-2 Electronic Viewfinder optional (1920 × 1080 OLED) |
| Video Out | HD-SDI, USB-C for external monitoring |
| Integrated Monitor | Optional integrated 4" LCD with 180° flip hinge (upgrade kit required) |
