Panavision anamorphic lens series from the 1980s — compact and lightweight, ideal for handheld and Steadicam. Defines the look of countless blockbusters with a wider aspect ratio and signature lens flare.
Definition
The Panavision C Series Anamorphic is a legendary series of anamorphic lenses developed by Panavision in the 1970s and is considered a vintage classic today. These lenses compress the image horizontally by a factor of 2:1 during recording, producing the characteristic Cinemascope format with an aspect ratio of 2.39:1 when de-squeezed. The C-Series is known for its unique optical character, with warm, organic skin tones and the typical anamorphic look.
The lenses are characterized by their specific image artifacts: horizontal lens flares, oval bokeh circles, and slight vignetting. These "imperfections" lend the image a nostalgic, cinematic aesthetic that is highly appreciated today. The C-Series includes focal lengths from 40mm to 200mm and operates with a constant aperture.
Practical Application
Panavision C Series lenses are exclusively available through Panavision's rental system and are not sold. They are particularly suitable for productions aiming for an authentic vintage look from the 1970s and 1980s. Due to their age and complex anamorphic technology, they require experienced camera crews and careful maintenance. The lenses are often used for feature films, high-quality series, and commercials that are intended to stand out with a special visual style.
Technical Details
The C-Series operates with the classic 2x anamorphic system and requires corresponding de-squeezing monitors on set. The minimum focus distance ranges from 1.2m to 3m, depending on the focal length. Due to their vintage construction, the lenses exhibit lower sharpness performance than modern anamorphic lenses, which is often utilized as a creative advantage.