DZOFilm Catta Zoom are professional cine zoom lenses from the Chinese manufacturer with constant T2.9 aperture in three focal lengths: 18–80mm, 70–200mm, and 35–80mm for full-frame cameras.
Definition
The DZOFilm Catta Zoom is a series of professional cine zoom lenses from the Chinese manufacturer DZOFilm, developed for full-frame cameras. The series includes three focal lengths: 18-80mm T2.9, 70-200mm T2.9, and 35-80mm T2.9, all with a constant aperture of T2.9 across the entire zoom range. The name "Catta" is derived from the scientific name of the ring-tailed lemur (Lemur catta), symbolizing the lenses' agility and precision.
Technical Details
All Catta lenses feature a uniform front diameter of 95mm, weigh between 2.8 and 3.2 kg, and measure approximately 200-220mm in length. The optical design is based on 16-20 lens elements in 11-14 groups with multi-coated surfaces. The focus ring rotates 300°, and the zoom ring rotates 90°. Both rings are equipped with standard cine gear rings (0.8 MOD). The minimum focus distance is 85cm for the 18-80mm, 120cm for the 70-200mm, and 80cm for the 35-80mm. All lenses come with a PL mount and optionally with Canon EF, Sony E, or Leica L mounts.
History & Development
DZOFilm was founded in Hangzhou in 2019 and first presented the Catta series at NAB in 2021. The company positioned itself as a cost-effective alternative to established manufacturers like ARRI, Canon, or Fujinon. The market launch in Europe and North America followed in 2022. The lenses were developed under the leadership of Optical Designer Samuel Zhou, who previously worked for Chinese broadcast manufacturers. At the end of 2023, DZOFilm expanded the series with the 35-80mm as the most compact option.
Practical Use in Film
The Catta lenses are suitable for documentaries, independent productions, and streaming content where budget and weight are crucial. The 18-80mm proves itself as an all-around lens for handheld shots and gimbal use. Productions like the Netflix series "The Peripheral" (2022) used Catta lenses for second-unit shots. The T2.9 aperture allows for available light shooting, while the constant aperture ensures continuous exposure when zooming. The lenses exhibit characteristic bokeh with 11-blade irises and minimal focus breathing effects.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to established cine zooms like ARRI Alura (T2.8) or Canon CN-E (T1.5-3.8), the Catta series is positioned in the entry-level segment. Fujinon Cabrio lenses offer wider focal length ranges but cost three times as much. Sigma Cine zooms achieve T2-T2.8 but have variable apertures. The Catta series directly competes with RED Pro Zooms and DJI DL-mount lenses, but surpasses them in build quality. For budget productions, they represent an alternative to photo zooms with cine adapters.