Overview
The Xenon FF-Prime is a series of prime cinema lenses from the German optics manufacturer Schneider-Kreuznach. The abbreviation "FF" stands for Full Frame: each lens in the series covers a full-frame sensor (24 x 36 mm) without vignetting and is designed for 4K image capture. The series was not derived from existing photographic designs but was engineered from the ground up as a true cinema lens.
The original set comprises focal lengths of 25 mm, 35 mm, 50 mm, 75 mm, and 100 mm – all with a constant aperture of T2.1. A wide-angle 18 mm focal length was later added to the lineup. The lenses are color-matched at the factory to minimize color shifts when changing lenses.
Technical Specifications
The following values apply to the classic T2.1 focal lengths in the series:
- Image Circle: Full Frame 24 x 36 mm (35mm Full-Frame)
- Aperture: Constant T2.1 (18mm variant T2.4)
- Iris: 14 aperture blades for round, even bokeh
- Focus Rotation: 300° barrel rotation
- Filter Thread: 95 mm; Front Diameter 100 mm
- Drive: Cam-driven focus instead of helicoid for more evenly distributed focus marks
- Design: Near-telecentric design to minimize focus breathing
| Property | Value |
|---|
| Standard Focal Lengths | 25 / 35 / 50 / 75 / 100 mm |
| Wide-Angle Addition | 18 mm |
| Aperture (Standard) | T2.1 |
| Image Circle | Full Frame 24 x 36 mm |
| Aperture Blades | 14 |
| Available Mounts | ARRI PL, Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E |
On-Set Usage
All focal lengths share the same housing size, weight, and positions of the focus and aperture gear rings. This allows for quick lens changes without readjusting the matte box, follow focus, or motors – a key criterion for efficient shooting. The uniform 95 mm filter threads and 100 mm front diameters simplify the selection of filters and sunshades.
The interchangeable mounts (PL for classic cinema cameras, EF/F/E for hybrid and mirrorless cameras) make the series adaptable to different camera platforms. With the Cine-Tilt variant, Schneider-Kreuznach also offers models with an integrated tilt function of up to ±4° to create selective focus planes directly on the lens.