Tokina Vista-P 29mm T1.5 Cinema Canon EF

Tokina Vista-P 29mm T1.5 Cinema Canon EF – Vintage-style, large format rendering with swirly Petzval-like bokeh

Tokina Vista-P 29mm T1.5 Cinema Canon EF is an outstanding lens that is part of Tokina's Vista-P series of cine primes. It combines a vintage-inspired, lower contrast with modern optical precision, making it ideal for filmmakers seeking a unique expression in their work. This specific model comes with a Canon EF mount and offers an expressive spherical distortion and the characteristic swirly, Petzval-like bokeh that is synonymous with the Vista-P series.

Updated optical design for expressive images

The Vista-P lenses benefit from an updated optical layout that increases the distance between lens elements. This results in a more expressive image rendering, with strong spherical distortion and a swirly background pull, while maintaining center sharpness. The intentional reduction of contrast provides a classic and characterful look that still works excellently with modern large format cameras, making this lens an excellent choice for both professional and enthusiastic filmmakers.

Large format coverage and image performance

This lens can cover a large image circle of 46.7 mm, making it suitable for full-frame, VistaVision, and digital 65 mm sensors. This extensive coverage ensures that the lens performs well in high-resolution recording workflows, including recordings up to 8K. Optically, the Vista-P maintains high resolution in the image center, controls chromatic aberration, and renders a stylized look towards the edges for a distinct and professional appearance that filmmakers can rely on.

Aperture, bokeh, and low-light capability

The 29mm model features a fast maximum aperture of T1.5, providing a shallow depth of field and increased flexibility even in low light. For scenes requiring greater depth of field, the lens can be stopped down to T22. With a 9-blade curved iris, a soft and rounded bokeh is created, enhancing the swirly, Petzval-like background separation that many filmmakers seek to achieve a vintage aesthetic in their productions.

Precision mechanics for cine workflows

Mechanically, the Vista-P primes are constructed with a robust, all-metal cine housing. They are equipped with 0.8 MOD focus and iris gears, as well as a focus rotation of approximately 300°, providing precise and repeatable control for focus pulls. Focus breathing is kept to a minimum, allowing for subtle and predictable re-composition during pulls, an important aspect for professional filmmakers.

In the Vista-P series, the lenses have a consistent front diameter of 114 mm and a 112 mm front filter thread, facilitating use with matte boxes and FIZ systems (focus/iris/zoom). While this specific model is equipped with a Canon EF mount, the series is also available in several other mount options to suit various camera packages and workflows.

Availability and options

Tokina offers Vista-P primes both as new lenses and as a one-way modification of existing Vista Primes. This allows productions to add Vista-P character to lenses they are already using in their Vista ecosystem, making it easy to integrate new technologies into existing setups.

Typical applications

• Narrative film production seeking a stylized, vintage look
• Documentary filmmaking where expressive image rendering is crucial
• Creative projects where unique bokeh and distortion are desired

Frequently asked questions

Does the product require phantom power?
No, the Tokina Vista-P 29mm T1.5 Cinema Canon EF does not require phantom power.

What type of bokeh does the lens create?
The lens creates a soft and rounded bokeh with a swirly, Petzval-like background separation.

What is the maximum aperture for this lens?
The maximum aperture for the Tokina Vista-P 29mm T1.5 is T1.5.

What type of construction does the lens have?
The lens is constructed with a robust, all-metal cine housing.