Laowa Proteus 2X Anamorphic 45mm T2 - Silver - Arri PL/Canon EF

Laowa Proteus 2X Anamorphic 45mm T2 - 2X squeeze for cinematic oval bokeh

The Laowa Proteus 2X Anamorphic 45mm T2 delivers a cinematic anamorphic look with a 2X squeeze ratio. It produces compressed backgrounds and the signature oval bokeh commonly used in high-end filmmaking. The 45mm focal length gives a natural perspective suited for medium shots, portraits, and scenes that benefit from subtle compression and depth.

Key features

• 2X squeeze ratio for classic anamorphic widescreen aesthetics.
• 45mm focal length that works well for medium shots and portraits.
• Fast T2 aperture to assist in low-light shooting and depth-of-field control.
• Available flare options in amber, blue, and silver to shape the lens character.
• Includes a default PL mount plus a Canon EF bayonet for added compatibility.
• 1.4X extender available to provide full-frame coverage when needed.
• Designed for Super 35 sensors with a close focusing distance for tighter compositions.

Optical characteristics and image style

The Proteus 45mm uses anamorphic optics to compress horizontal field of view, which creates the widescreen look and distinctive oval highlights. Because it has a fast T2 aperture, you can shoot in lower light and control subject separation with a shallow, cinematic focus. Furthermore, the available amber, blue, and silver flare options let you choose how highlights and lens flares render in your scenes, giving you creative flexibility without changing lenses.

Build, handling and on-set use

Laowa builds the Proteus 45mm for professional use with robust construction and smooth controls. The lens offers reliable focus and aperture movement, which helps when pulling precise focus or matching stops across a set of lenses. In addition, the package includes a lens support foot to stabilize the lens on support systems and integrate into standard production workflows.

Compatibility and mounting

The lens ships with a default Arri PL mount and a Canon EF bayonet, providing compatibility with a wide range of cinema and DSLR rigs. It is designed primarily for Super 35 sensors, while the 1.4X extender can be used to achieve full-frame coverage when your camera and shoot require it. This flexibility simplifies lens selection across different camera platforms and sensor sizes.

What’s in the box

• Laowa Proteus 2X Anamorphic 45mm T2 Lens
• Front and rear lens caps
• Lens support foot
• User manual

Technical specifications

FAQ

Question: Is this lens suitable for full-frame cameras?
Answer: The Proteus 45mm is designed for Super 35 sensors. However, you can use the 1.4X extender to obtain full-frame coverage when your setup requires it.

Question: What creative looks can I achieve with this lens?
Answer: Use the 2X squeeze to get anamorphic widescreen framing and oval bokeh. Additionally, pick from amber, blue, and silver flare options to change how highlights and flares render, allowing you to tailor the lens character to your project.

Question: Does the lens come ready to mount on different cameras?
Answer: Yes. The lens ships with a default Arri PL mount and a Canon EF bayonet, which lets you mount it on a broad range of cinema and DSLR systems without needing extra adapters in many setups.

Question: How does the fast T2 aperture help on set?
Answer: The T2 aperture lets you work in lower light and control depth of field more precisely. This helps emphasize subjects with a cinematic shallow focus while maintaining enough light for practical shooting conditions.

Question: What accessories are included to support on-set workflow?
Answer: The package includes front and rear lens caps, a lens support foot to stabilize the lens on rigging and rails, and a user manual to guide setup and handling.

Question: Can I use this lens for close-up work?
Answer: The Proteus 45mm offers a close focusing distance that makes it suitable for tighter compositions. This feature allows you to get closer to subjects while retaining the anamorphic look.