Laowa Proteus Zoom 2X Anamorphic 45-85mm T2.9 - Amber - Arri PL/Canon EF

Laowa Proteus Zoom 2X Anamorphic 45-85mm T2.9 – Amber flare option with true 2X anamorphic squeeze

The Laowa Proteus Zoom 2X Anamorphic 45-85mm T2.9 is built for filmmakers who need telephoto anamorphic imagery with a genuine 2X squeeze. Designed for Super 35 sensors, this zoom produces widescreen visuals with the characteristic oval bokeh and horizontal flare behaviour that anamorphic optics are known for. The Amber designation indicates the available flare aesthetic for this variant, and the lens supports PL and Canon EF mounting options for professional workflows.

Why choose this anamorphic zoom

This lens combines a flexible telephoto zoom range with a constant T2.9 aperture to deliver consistent exposure and depth-of-field control throughout the zoom. As a result, you can shoot portraits, close-ups, and medium telephoto storytelling with a consistent anamorphic look. Additionally, the optical design preserves contrast and colour rendering across the focal range, which helps maintain a coherent visual style on set.

Optical characteristics and creative results

• The lens provides a genuine 2X anamorphic squeeze, enabling immersive widescreen compositions when de-squeezed in post.
• It produces the classic oval-shaped bokeh associated with anamorphic optics, useful for cinematic portraits and subject separation.
• Horizontal flares are a defining trait; this model offers an Amber flare characteristic and is also available in Blue or Silver flare options for different creative looks.
• Because the aperture stays at T2.9 across the zoom range, you get predictable low-light performance and consistent depth-of-field control at every focal length.

Build quality and handling

The Proteus Zoom is engineered for professional production environments. It features all-metal construction for durability and long-term reliability. Filmmakers will find the manual focus and aperture rings smooth and precise, and the lens uses industry-standard 0.8 MOD cine gears to integrate seamlessly with follow-focus and motion-control systems.

Mounts, compatibility and expandability

By default the lens is standardized with a PL mount and it includes an interchangeable Canon EF bayonet for broader camera compatibility. For expanded reach and potential full-frame coverage, the lens is compatible with a 1.4X extender. These options let you adapt the Proteus Zoom to different camera platforms and shooting requirements.

Typical use cases

• Portrait cinematography where anamorphic bokeh and subject separation matter.
• Telephoto close-ups and medium telephoto framing for narrative scenes.
• Creative work that benefits from horizontal flare aesthetics and widescreen composition.
• Professional shoots requiring cine-standard gears and robust mounting options.

Key Features

• 45-85mm telephoto zoom range ideal for portraiture, close-ups, and dramatic storytelling
• Genuine 2X anamorphic squeeze ratio delivers authentic widescreen visuals
• Constant T2.9 aperture provides excellent low-light capabilities and consistent exposure
• Pleasant oval-shaped bokeh and cinematic anamorphic flares
• Amber, blue, or silver flare options for tailored creative aesthetics
• Durable all-metal construction for reliability in professional production environments
• Smooth, precise manual controls with 0.8 MOD cine gears
• Default PL mount with included interchangeable Canon EF bayonet
• Compatible with a 1.4X extender for expanded full-frame coverage

What’s in the Box

• Laowa Proteus Zoom 2X Anamorphic 45-85mm T2.9 Lens
• Front and rear lens caps
• Lens support foot
• Canon EF bayonet mount
• User manual

Technical Specifications

FAQ

Question: Which sensors is this lens designed for?
Answer: The Proteus Zoom is designed specifically for Super 35 sensors, so it matches the image circle and optical characteristics expected for that format.

Question: Does the lens maintain exposure across the zoom range?
Answer: Yes. The lens features a constant T2.9 aperture throughout the 45–85mm zoom range, allowing consistent exposure and predictable depth-of-field control while zooming.

Question: What mounting options are available and included?
Answer: The lens is standardized with a PL mount and ships with an interchangeable Canon EF bayonet. These options provide compatibility with a wide range of professional cinema and DSLR/mirrorless cameras.

Question: Can I change the flare look of the lens?
Answer: Yes. The Proteus Zoom supports interchangeable flare modules. This listing references the Amber flare option, and alternative Blue or Silver modules are also available to tailor the anamorphic flare aesthetic.

Question: Will the lens work with a 1.4X extender or cover full-frame sensors?
Answer: The lens is compatible with a 1.4X extender. When used with an extender, it can help expand coverage toward full-frame sensors, depending on the camera and setup.