Tokina Vista-C 85mm T1.5 Cinema PL

Tokina Vista-C 85mm T1.5 Cinema PL – Fast T1.5 Aperture for Shallow Depth of Field and Cinematic Character

Tokina Vista-C 85mm T1.5 Cinema PL is an exceptional lens that is part of the Vista-C prime series and is specifically designed for filmmakers seeking a distinct and characterful image quality. With a fast T1.5 aperture, filmmakers can create shallow depths of field and a cinematic aesthetic that truly stands out. This lens is perfect for those who want to combine modern technological advancements with a classic visual style.

Optical Character and Image Rendering

Vista-C primes are developed to provide a refined vintage aesthetic that is also compatible with modern digital large format cameras. The 85mm lens is designed to create a cinematic image with pleasing imperfections, which many filmmakers strive for. The optimal optical design ensures that images are both expressive and usable on high-resolution sensors.

• Smooth field distortion to provide a classic and organic feel in images.
• Natural vignetting from center to edges that enhances subject separation.
• Softer edges combined with high central resolution provide a balanced and attractive image.
• Soft and pleasing bokeh supported by a 9-blade curved iris, creating rounded out-of-focus highlights when stopped down.
• A slightly reduced overall contrast compared to neutral cine lenses contributes to the vintage look.
• Re-shaped coatings provide expressive blue and red flare tones, while green bias is reduced for a warmer overall rendering.

Coverage, Aperture, and Focus Behavior

The Vista-C series, including the 85mm T1.5, is designed to cover full-frame and large format sensors with an image circle exceeding 46.7 mm. This makes the lens compatible with “full-frame plus” cameras and also ARRI ALEXA 65 Open Gate. With a constant T1.5 maximum aperture and a T22 minimum aperture, this series offers great flexibility in lighting conditions.

The lenses are constructed with the needs of filmmakers in mind, and they exhibit virtually no focus breathing. Therefore, you can easily achieve shallow depths of field and smooth focus pulls without experiencing noticeable changes in image angle.

Mechanical Construction and Handling

Mechanically, the Vista-C primes are built to withstand the demands of professional production environments. The 85mm lens adheres to the series' robust specifications, making shooting and lens changes both predictable and efficient. The durable construction is perfect for the challenges that film production can present.

• All-metal housing for increased durability and wear resistance on set.
• Available in several different mounts, including ARRI PL, making it ideal for professional film use.
• 0.8 MOD cine gear on focus and iris for seamless integration with follow focus and motorized systems.
• Approximately 300° focus rotation allows for precise manual control and carefully measured focus pulls.
• Shared outer form factor across the series, including a 114 mm front diameter and consistent gear positions for easy switching between lenses.

Frequently asked questions

What is the aperture of the Tokina Vista-C 85mm T1.5 Cinema PL?
The lens has a fast T1.5 aperture.

What type of image sensors is the lens designed to cover?
The lens is designed to cover full-frame and large format sensors with an image circle exceeding 46.7 mm.

What type of bokeh does the lens create?
The lens supports a smooth and pleasing bokeh thanks to a 9-blade curved iris, which creates rounded out-of-focus highlights when stopped down.

How is the mechanical construction of the lens?
The lens has an all-metal housing for increased durability and wear resistance, making it suitable for professional production environments.