Tokina Vista-P 35mm T1.5 Cinema MFT

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

Tokina Vista-P 35mm T1.5 Cinema MFT is part of the Vista-P series of cine-primes and is aimed at filmmakers seeking a vintage-inspired aesthetic with lower contrast, without compromising modern optical precision. With an impressive maximum aperture of T1.5 and the characteristic swirling bokeh-like Petzval effect, this lens offers a unique opportunity to create expressive and visually striking images.

Optical construction and image character

The Vista-P lens is constructed with an updated optical design that increases the distance between lens elements. This design results in a more expressive image with intentional spherical distortion and a swirling background rendition. At the same time, the lens balances this character with high resolution in the center of the image and controlled chromatic aberrations. The reduced contrast and sharp center focus provide a more stylized rendition towards the edges of the image, making it perfect for productions that desire a classic and characterful aesthetic while working with modern workflows for large-format.

Aperture, bokeh, and low-light capability

This lens is designed with a fast maximum aperture of T1.5, allowing for a shallow depth of field and effective operation in low light. The 9-blade curved iris provides a soft and rounded bokeh. The optical adjustment in the lens highlights the spherical distortion and the swirling bokeh, resulting in highlights rendered with a distinct Petzval-like character.

Large-format coverage and resolution

Vista-P primes offer a large image circle of 46.7 mm, allowing them to cover full-frame, VistaVision, and digital 65 mm sensors. This makes them suitable for high-resolution recording up to 8K, meaning the 35 mm Vista-P can be used in many different large-format camera systems and high-resolution productions.

Focus performance and mechanics

Focus breathing has been kept to a minimum, making recomposition during focus pulls discreet and easy. The lens offers approximately 300° of focus movement, allowing for precise and repeatable focus pulls. The mechanical construction of the 35 mm Vista-P is robust and entirely metal, featuring 0.8 MOD focus and iris gears for reliable use on professional rigs. The gear positions are matched across the focal lengths in the Vista-P series, facilitating quick lens changes when matte boxes and FIZ systems are used. The consistent front dimensions also contribute to an efficient workflow on set.

Mounts, compatibility, and service options

The Vista-P series is available in several different mounts, including PL, EF, MFT, E, and LPL. The 35mm T1.5 Cinema MFT is offered with an MFT mount, and the series can be delivered as new lenses or as a one-way modification of existing Vista Primes, providing great flexibility for productions that have already invested in the Vista ecosystem.

Main features

• Vintage-inspired: Lower contrast rendition with strong spherical distortion
• Maximum aperture: T1.5 for shallow depth of field and low-light capability
• Optical construction: High resolution with controlled chromatic aberrations
• Image circle: 46.7 mm covering up to 8K resolution
• Mechanical design: Fully metal with 300° focus movement
• Mounts: Available in MFT, PL, EF, E, and LPL

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum aperture for the Tokina Vista-P 35mm T1.5 Cinema MFT?
The maximum aperture is T1.5.

What type of bokeh can one expect from this lens?
The lens offers a vintage-inspired swirling bokeh similar to a Petzval effect.

Which image sensors does the lens cover?
The lens has a large image circle of 46.7 mm and covers full-frame, VistaVision, and digital 65 mm sensors.

How much focus rotation does the lens offer?
The lens offers approximately 300° of focus rotation for precise and repeatable focus pulls.