Laowa Proteus 2X Anamorphic 28mm T2 - Silver - Arri PL/Canon EF

Laowa Proteus 2X Anamorphic 28mm T2 – Bright T2 Aperture for Low-Light Cinematography (Silver Flare)

The Laowa Proteus 2X Anamorphic 28mm T2 in Silver combines a wide-angle field of view with a bright T2 aperture to help filmmakers capture cinematic images in low light. Designed for creative anamorphic workflows, this lens emphasizes subject separation, delivers authentic widescreen compression, and offers selectable flare characteristics to suit different visual styles.

Optical characteristics and creative use

The lens features a bright T2 aperture that enables improved low-light performance and precise control over depth of field. As a result, filmmakers can isolate subjects against a cinematic background while maintaining usable light sensitivity. In addition, the Proteus 28mm is engineered to deliver sharpness across the frame, restrained distortion, and accurate color rendition, supporting reliable image quality for narrative and commercial work.

Moreover, the 2X anamorphic squeeze ratio produces the classic anamorphic widescreen look. This squeeze, combined with the lens’s oval-shaped bokeh and the chosen silver flare option, gives images distinct cinematic character without altering the fundamental optical behavior.

Compatibility and mounting

By default, the lens ships in an Arri PL mount and includes an interchangeable Canon EF bayonet. Therefore, it supports common cinema and hybrid camera systems out of the box. The Proteus is designed primarily for Super 35 sensors, and you can extend its coverage: with a 1.4X extender, the lens can achieve full-frame coverage when needed.

Flare options and focusing

The Laowa Proteus 28mm comes in three flare variations—amber, blue, and silver—each providing a different anamorphic highlight rendering. The Silver version emphasizes the style tied to that variant while preserving the lens’s other optical traits. Furthermore, the lens offers a close minimum focusing distance, which allows for detailed, intimate compositions and dramatic close-ups even in tighter shooting environments.

Key Features

• 28mm focal length ideal for expansive wide-angle cinematography
• Fast T2 aperture for excellent low-light performance
• 2X anamorphic squeeze ratio delivers authentic widescreen visuals
• Pleasant oval-shaped bokeh adds distinct cinematic character
• Amber, blue, or silver flare options for creative styling
• Close minimum focusing distance for detailed, intimate compositions
• Default PL mount with included Canon EF bayonet
• Compatible with a 1.4X extender for full-frame coverage

What’s in the Box

• Laowa Proteus 2X Anamorphic 28mm T2 Lens
• Front and rear lens caps
• Lens support foot
• Canon EF bayonet mount
• User manual

Technical Specifications

FAQ

Question: Which mounts are included with the lens?
Answer: The Proteus ships in an Arri PL mount by default and includes an interchangeable Canon EF bayonet, giving you immediate compatibility with both PL-based cinema cameras and EF-compatible systems.

Question: Will this lens cover full-frame sensors?
Answer: The lens is designed for Super 35 sensors. However, you can achieve full-frame coverage when using a compatible 1.4X extender, which expands the image circle to cover larger sensors.

Question: How do the flare options affect the image?
Answer: The amber, blue, and silver flare variations change the color and feel of anamorphic highlights. Each option preserves the lens’s optical characteristics while offering different stylistic choices to match your creative vision.

Question: Is the lens suitable for low-light shooting?
Answer: Yes. With its bright T2 aperture, the lens provides improved low-light performance and better control over depth of field compared with slower anamorphic optics.

Question: Can I use this lens for close-up, intimate shots?
Answer: Absolutely. The Proteus offers a close minimum focusing distance that enables detailed, intimate compositions and dramatic close-ups, even in confined spaces.