Laowa Proteus 2X Anamorphic 85mm T2 - Blue - Arri PL/Canon EF

Laowa Proteus 2X Anamorphic 85mm T2 – Telephoto anamorphic perspective for cinematic portraiture

The Laowa Proteus 2X Anamorphic 85mm T2 lens delivers a telephoto anamorphic perspective tailored for filmmakers who shoot cinematic portraits, intimate close-ups, and detail-driven storytelling. It uses a true 2X anamorphic squeeze to create a widescreen look while preserving the character filmmakers expect from anamorphic optics.

Why use this lens?

This 85mm T2 lens produces deep subject compression and oval-shaped bokeh, which help separate subjects from their backgrounds and add emotional weight to scenes. Because the Proteus features a wide T2 aperture, it performs well in low-light situations and gives precise control over depth of field. Filmmakers can use its close focusing capabilities to capture subtle facial details and textures for visually intimate shots.

Designed for modern cinema workflows

The Proteus 85mm is designed primarily for Super 35 sensors. When you need wider coverage, you can pair the lens with a 1.4X extender to achieve full-frame coverage. The lens ships with a PL mount by default and includes a Canon EF bayonet mount to increase compatibility across camera systems. Its manual controls and robust construction suit professional use on set.

Key Features

• 85mm focal length optimized for portrait and close-up cinematography — suited to telephoto framing and subject isolation.
• Bright T2 aperture for outstanding low-light performance and shallow depth-of-field — allows creative control over exposure and focus falloff.
• True 2X anamorphic squeeze ratio providing an authentic widescreen look — produces classic anamorphic geometry and cinematic compression.
• Pleasant oval-shaped bokeh for enhanced cinematic visuals — contributes to a softer, filmic background aesthetic.
• Available in amber, blue, or silver flare variants for tailored creative aesthetics — choose the flare color to match your visual style and lighting design.
• Close focusing capability ideal for detailed, intimate framing — enables tight shots without losing anamorphic character.
• PL mount defaulted with included Canon EF bayonet mount — ensures compatibility with professional cinema cameras and EF-mount systems.
• Compatible with a 1.4X extender for full-frame sensor coverage — expands usability across sensor sizes when needed.

What’s in the Box

• Laowa Proteus 2X Anamorphic 85mm T2 Lens
• Front and rear lens caps
• Lens support foot
• Canon EF bayonet mount
• User manual

Technical Specifications

FAQ

Question: Will this lens cover full-frame sensors?

Answer: The Proteus 85mm is designed for Super 35 sensors. You can achieve full-frame coverage when you pair the lens with a compatible 1.4X extender, which expands the image circle to cover larger sensors.

Question: What are the visual benefits of the 2X anamorphic squeeze?

Answer: The true 2X anamorphic squeeze produces the classic widescreen anamorphic geometry: horizontal compression, deep subject compression, and distinctive anamorphic flares. It also yields oval-shaped bokeh and a cinematic field of view suited to narrative work.

Question: Which flare variant should I choose?

Answer: Each flare variant—amber, blue, or silver—changes the color and character of highlights and flares. Choose the variant that best complements your production’s color palette and lighting style to achieve the desired visual mood.

Question: Does the lens work with EF-mount cameras out of the box?

Answer: Yes. The lens ships with a PL mount by default and includes a Canon EF bayonet mount so you can mount it on EF-compatible cameras without needing a separate adapter.

Question: Is this lens suitable for low-light shooting and shallow depth-of-field?

Answer: Yes. The wide T2 aperture supports low-light shooting and gives you precise control over depth of field to isolate subjects and create cinematic separation from backgrounds.