Compact, lightweight 2x anamorphic prime lenses by Panavision (since 1968) with signature lens flare and oval bokeh.
The C Series Anamorphic is a series of anamorphic prime lenses from the US manufacturer Panavision. Introduced in 1968, it has since become one of the most widely used anamorphic lens series in feature filmmaking. Its characteristic compact, lightweight design, compared to many other anamorphic lenses, is one reason why the series remained in use for decades, often alongside newer Panavision series (E, G, T) on the same set.
As with classic Panavision anamorphics, the squeeze is achieved via a cylindrical front element with a 2x squeeze factor: the image is recorded horizontally compressed by a factor of 2 and de-squeezed during projection or in post-production, resulting in the wide anamorphic aspect ratio. The series is exclusively available through Panavision's rental model (not sold) and uses Panavision's proprietary PV mount.
The C Series is valued not for technical perfection, but for its organic, "cinematic" look. Typical characteristics:
These "imperfections" are intentionally used by cinematographers; C Series lenses were sometimes deliberately mixed with other series to leverage their different characteristics within a single scene.
The series covers a wide focal length range from wide-angle to telephoto. Maximum apertures vary depending on focal length; the fastest focal lengths open up to approximately T2.3. Longer focal lengths have comparatively large minimum focusing distances.
| Characteristic | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | Anamorphic Prime Lens |
| Manufacturer | Panavision |
| Introduction | 1968 |
| Squeeze Factor | 2x |
| Focal Length Range | Approx. 30 mm to 100 mm (core series), supplemented by additional focal lengths |
| Max. Aperture (fastest focal lengths) | Up to approx. T2.3 |
| Mount | Panavision PV-Mount |
| Availability | Rental only |
The C Series has been used on numerous major productions and by renowned cinematographers. Due to the varying minimum focusing distances and aperture values of individual focal lengths, careful consideration of the required minimum distance and light intensity is necessary when selecting lenses. Their advantage in weight and size makes the series suitable for mobile setups (handheld, Steadicam, tight shooting locations). The lenses are often combined with newer Panavision anamorphics to intentionally mix different flare and bokeh characteristics.
Als Kameramann schätze ich die C-Serie für ihren unverwechselbaren organischen Look, der digitale Aufnahmen sofort "filmischer" wirken lässt. Die horizontalen Flares und das warme Rendering sind einzigartig, allerdings muss ich bei der Schärfeführung präziser arbeiten als bei modernen Objektiven. Die geringere Lichtstärke und das höhere Gewicht erfordern eine durchdachte Planung der Kamera-Setups.
Für mich verkörpern die Panavision C-Objektive pure Filmgeschichte und verleihen jeder Produktion eine emotionale Tiefe, die moderne Linsen selten erreichen. Der Vintage-Charakter unterstützt perfekt nostalgische oder zeitlose Erzählungen und schafft eine besondere Verbindung zum Publikum. Die visuelle Signatur hilft mir, eine spezifische Stimmung und Atmosphäre zu kreieren, die die Geschichte emotional verstärkt.
Die C-Serie bedeutet für mich eine Investition in Premiumqualität, die sich im Endprodukt deutlich zeigt und die Vermarktung unterstützt. Allerdings muss ich höhere Mietkosten und längere Vorlaufzeiten einkalkulieren, da die Verfügbarkeit begrenzt ist. Die Zusammenarbeit mit Panavision erfordert frühzeitige Planung, bietet aber auch technischen Support auf höchstem Niveau.
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „Panavision C Series Anamorphic"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?
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