Tokina Vista-P 35mm T1.5 Cinema MFT

Tokina Vista-P 35mm T1.5 Cinema MFT – fast T1.5 with vintage-inspired swirly Petzval bokeh

The Tokina Vista-P 35mm T1.5 Cinema MFT is part of the Vista-P cinema prime series, designed for filmmakers who want a vintage-inspired, lower-contrast look while retaining modern optical precision. This 35mm model combines a fast T1.5 maximum aperture with the series’ characteristic swirly, Petzval-type bokeh and strong spherical distortion to create expressive imagery.

Optical design and image character

Vista-P lenses use an updated optical design that increases the spacing between elements. As a result, they produce a more expressive image with deliberate spherical distortion and a swirly background rendering. Additionally, the series balances this character with high central resolution and controlled chromatic aberration.

Furthermore, Vista-P primes deliver reduced overall contrast, crisp central sharpness and more stylized rendering toward the edges of the frame. The look suits productions seeking a classic, characterful aesthetic while still operating within modern large-format workflows.

Aperture, bokeh and low-light capability

The lens is built around a fast T1.5 maximum aperture, which enables shallow depth of field and flexible work in lower light. It features a 9-blade curved iris that produces smooth, rounded bokeh. The optical tuning specifically enhances spherical distortion and swirly bokeh, giving highlights a distinctive Petzval-like rendering.

Large-format coverage and resolution

Vista-P primes provide a large 46.7 mm image circle that covers full-frame, VistaVision and digital 65 mm sensors. Consequently, they are suitable for high-resolution capture up to 8K. This broad coverage makes the 35mm Vista-P useful across many large-format camera systems and high-resolution productions.

Focus performance and mechanics

Optically, focus breathing is kept to a minimum, so reframing during pulls remains subtle. The lens offers approximately 300° of focus rotation to support precise, repeatable focus pulls. Mechanically, the 35mm Vista-P uses a robust all-metal cine housing and 0.8 MOD focus and iris gears for reliable use on professional rigs.

Gear positions are matched across focal lengths in the Vista-P series, which helps speed up lens changes when using matte boxes and FIZ systems. The consistent front dimensions further streamline workflows on set.

Mounts, compatibility and service options

The Vista-P series is available in multiple mount options, including PL, EF, MFT, E and LPL. The 35mm T1.5 Cinema MFT is offered with an MFT mount, and the series itself can be supplied as new lenses or as a one-way modification to existing Vista Primes. This provides flexibility for productions already invested in the Vista ecosystem.

Key features

• Vintage-style, lower-contrast rendering with strong spherical distortion and swirly Petzval-type bokeh
• Fast T1.5 maximum aperture with T22 minimum, 9-blade curved iris and smooth, rounded bokeh
• Large-format coverage with a 46.7 mm image circle, suitable for full-frame, VistaVision and 65 mm digital sensors
• High resolution in the image center with controlled chromatic aberration and a more characterful look toward the edges
• Near-zero focus breathing and approximately 300° focus rotation for precise, repeatable focus pulls
• 0.8 MOD cine gears, all-metal housing, and matched 114 mm front diameter / 112 mm filter thread across the series
• Multiple mount options including PL, EF, MFT, E and LPL for broad camera compatibility

Who this lens is for

With its combination of expressive vintage character, fast T1.5 speed and modern cine mechanics, the Tokina Vista-P 35mm T1.5 Cinema MFT suits narrative work, music videos, commercials and any production that wants a stylized, swirling bokeh look while staying within a robust large-format cine workflow.

Technical specifications

Frequently asked questions

Question: Will the 35mm Vista-P work on large-format cameras?

Answer: Yes. The Vista-P series provides a 46.7 mm image circle and is specified to cover full-frame, VistaVision and digital 65 mm sensors, making the lenses suitable for high-resolution capture up to 8K.

Question: How does the Vista-P image differ from standard modern cine lenses?

Answer: Vista-P lenses intentionally reduce overall contrast and increase spherical distortion to create a vintage, characterful look. They maintain crisp central sharpness and low chromatic aberration while producing a swirly, Petzval-type bokeh toward the edges.

Question: Is the 35mm available only as a new lens, or can I modify existing Vista Primes?

Answer: The series is available both as new lenses and as a one-way modification to existing Vista Primes, offering an added creative option for productions that already use the Vista lineup.

Question: What mechanical features support professional workflows on set?

Answer: The 35mm Vista-P features an all-metal cine housing, 0.8 MOD focus and iris gears, approximately 300° of focus rotation and matched gear positions across focal lengths. Additionally, the series keeps a consistent 114 mm front diameter and 112 mm filter thread, which helps speed lens changes when using matte boxes and FIZ systems.