Compact anamorphic lenses by Venus Optics with a 1.5x squeeze factor, producing characteristic lens flares and bokeh for a CinemaScope look.
Technical Details
Focal Lengths
| 27 | 35 | 50 | 65 | 75 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T2.8 | T2.4 | T2.4 | T2.4 | T2.4 |
| 0.85m | 1.00m | 1.00m | 1.00m | 1.00m |
| 0.74kg | 0.82kg | 0.88kg | 0.92kg | 0.95kg |
| 77 | 77 | 77 | 77 | 77 |
| 90° | 72° | 54° | 42° | 36° |
| ◀━━━━▶ | ◀━━━▶ | ◀━━▶ | ◀━━▶ | ◀━▶ |
PL/EF/RF/E · 77mm Front · 1.5x Squeeze · T2.4
History & Development
Venus Optics announced the Nanomorph series in 2021 as a response to the growing demand for affordable anamorphic lenses for independent productions. The first 35mm model was launched in the fall of 2021, followed by the other focal lengths through 2022. The development aimed to make anamorphic optics accessible for budgets below traditional providers like Cooke or ARRI. In 2023, Venus Optics expanded the series with additional mount options and improved coatings.
Practical Use in Film
The Nanomorph lenses are primarily used in independent films, music videos, and commercial productions where the anamorphic look is desired but the budget for more expensive systems is lacking. The 1.5:1 squeeze factor requires less extreme de-squeezing in post-production than classic 2:1 anamorphic lenses. Typical workflows involve shooting with Sony FX6, Canon C70, or RED Komodo. The lenses are particularly suitable for atmospheric night shots, as the characteristic blue flares from light sources are strongly emphasized.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike SLR Magic Anamorphot lenses, the Nanomorphs offer more consistent optical characteristics across all focal lengths. Compared to the significantly more expensive SIRUI Anamorphotes (1.33:1 squeeze), they produce a more pronounced anamorphic look. As a more affordable alternative to Cooke Anamorphic/i or ARRI Master Anamorphic, they achieve approximately 70% of the optical quality at 20% of the cost. For the highest image quality, established manufacturers remain the first choice, but for creative independent productions with limited budgets, the Nanomorphs represent a viable option.