During the NAB 2024 event, lens maker BLAZAR introduced CATO, a fresh addition to their lineup of full-frame anamorphic lenses. The BLAZAR CATO FF 2x anamorphic series offers lenses in 40mm, 50mm, 85mm, and 125mm, all featuring a consistent 2x anamorphic squeeze and the ability to accommodate large format sensors. Here’s a closer look at these exciting new offerings!

Recently, BLAZAR expanded its product range with the launch of a 35mm T1.6 lens for Super35 sensors and a 33mm T1.6 that covers full-frame sensors. Building on this momentum, BLAZAR is now venturing into the realm of 2x anamorphic lenses with the BLAZAR CATO FF 2x anamorphic series.

Formerly known as Great Joy, BLAZAR is a Chinese company renowned for crafting affordable anamorphic lenses tailored to the needs of independent filmmakers. Their Remus 1.5x anamorphic series has gained significant traction for its vintage flair and cost-effectiveness.

BLAZAR CATO FF 2x Anamorphic Set – Features

The BLAZAR CATO FF 2x anamorphic lineup comprises four focal lengths: 40mm T2.2, 50mm T2, 85mm T2.8, and 125mm T3.2. Each lens in this series is available with either PL or EF mounts. Despite their robust features, these lenses are quite lightweight (ranging from 853g/1.88lbs to 940g/2.07lbs) and compact, with lengths varying from 105mm to 133mm.

Similar to the Remus 1.5x lenses, the BLAZAR CATO FF 2x anamorphic set employs barrel distortion to achieve its distinctive look. However, these lenses only offer neutral silver flare options, adapting the color of the flare to the lighting it encounters—unlike the Remus series, which offers the choice of blue or amber flares. The design maintains a sleek silver/black aesthetic with clear focus markings in both meters and feet. It’s also very easy to unscrew the EF/PL mount, it doesn’t even take a minute.

BLAZAR CATO FF 2x Anamorphic Set – Specs

For detailed specifications of each lens, please refer to the chart provided below:

Price and Availability

BLAZAR is known for making anamorphic lenses more accessible price-wise. While specific pricing details for the BLAZAR CATO FF 2x anamorphic series are not yet available, pre-orders will open in July with shipping set to begin in August 2024. The 40mm lens will start shipping later, in October.

For additional details, visit the BLAZAR website here.

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“Blazar Remus Anamorphic Lenses have carved a unique niche in the world of cinema and photography. These special lenses capture images with a wide aspect ratio, offering a cinematic look. The most distinct feature of anamorphic lenses is their ability to stretch light sources horizontally, creating a characteristic ‘flare’ effect, and an oval bokeh. The Blazar Remus series combines these features with modern technology, offering users an unparalleled visual experience. Their robust build and cutting-edge optics make them a favorite among professional cinematographers and photographers seeking to add a dramatic and expansive quality to their visual storytelling.”

Blazar Remus Anamorphic Lenses are ready to join the cinematography and photography landscape with their upcoming range, featuring three eagerly anticipated lenses ready for pre-order.

These lenses, with focal lengths of 45mm, 65mm, and 100mm, promise to cater to a variety of shooting requirements, from intimate close-ups to expansive landscapes.

These lenses are expected to appeal to a broad spectrum of visual artists. From professional filmmakers seeking that quintessential widescreen aesthetic to photography enthusiasts looking to explore new dimensions in their work.

“Below, you will find a captivating collection of screenshot frames taken with the Remus Anamorphic Lenses.”

These lenses are renowned for their ability to transform ordinary scenes into cinematic masterpieces, thanks in large part to their beautiful oval bokeh.

Each image encapsulates the unique visual signature that only anamorphic lenses can provide – a fusion of distorted light and expansive framing,

Creating an almost dream-like quality. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a professional filmmaker, these frames will give you a glimpse into the exceptional capabilities and artistic possibilities offered by Remus Anamorphic Lenses.”

Blazar Remus lenses are designed to capture the cinematic essence with their unique anamorphic characteristics.

The buzz around these lenses suggests they will be a significant hit!.

The above photo presents the Kinefinity Mavo Edge’s exceptional full-frame sensor capabilities with the distinct anamorphic aesthetics provided by Remus lenses.
The result is a breathtaking visual experience, marked by the anamorphic lenses’ signature oval bokeh and widescreen aspect ratio. The Kinefinity Mavo Edge, known for its high resolution, dynamic range, and color fidelity, when paired with the artistic flair of Remus Anamorphics.

The photo above you can see PL Mount Adapter W/ E-ND and the Remus anamorphic lens.

Kinefinity offers a wide range of adapters, ensuring compatibility and enhancing usability for a range of cinematic applications ensuring compatibility and enhancing usability for a range of cinematic applications.

Above, you’ll find the Remus Anamorphic Lens mounted on the DJI Ronin RS3 Pro, paired with the Fujifilm GFX camera. This setup demonstrates compactness and efficiency.

The post Blazar introduces the new Remus Anamorphic Lenses. appeared first on Cinegear Amsterdam.

Great Joy Blazar Anamorphic Lenses stand out for their exceptional build quality, remarkable lens flare, and the distinct ‘anamorphic look’ they impart to footage. These lenses are designed for filmmakers who demand high-quality optics and unique visual effects.

Features and Benefits

• Cinematic Bokeh: The lenses produce a beautiful, oval-shaped bokeh, adding a cinematic depth to your shots.
• Distinctive Flares: These lenses are renowned for their characteristic horizontal flares, a hallmark of anamorphic lenses.
• Versatile Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of cameras, ensuring flexibility in various filming environments.
• Robust Build: Crafted with precision, these lenses are durable and reliable, ideal for rigorous use in different shooting conditions.

Ideal for Professional Filmmakers and Enthusiasts

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a passionate enthusiast, the Great Joy Blazar Anamorphic Lenses are perfect for elevating your film projects. They offer a blend of artistic flair and technical excellence.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Hear from filmmakers who have experienced the transformational impact of these lenses in their projects. Their testimonials speak volumes about the quality and performance of the Great Joy Blazar Anamorphic Lenses.

Conclusion

Step into a world of extraordinary cinematic visuals with Great Joy Blazar Anamorphic Lenses. They are not just lenses; they are gateways to a new realm of storytelling. Experience the difference today!

Call to Action

Discover more about Great Joy Blazar Anamorphic Lenses on our website. Elevate your filmmaking experience now!

Great Joy 1.8x Anamorphic T2.9 Lens Set

Technical Specifications

1. Anamorphic Ratio: 1.8x, providing a wider horizontal field of view and characteristic anamorphic compression.
2. Aperture Range: T2.9 to T16, offering versatility in various lighting conditions.
3. Focus Range: These lenses typically feature a close focus range, allowing for sharp images at closer distances.
4. Mount Type: Available in popular mounts like PL, EF, and others, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of cameras.
5. Optical Design: Engineered to deliver high-resolution imagery with minimal distortion and aberration.
6. Lens Coating: Advanced coatings for reduced flare and ghosting, while enhancing color fidelity and contrast.
7. Build Quality: Robust construction, typically made from high-grade aluminum and optical glass, ensuring durability and reliability.

Key Features

• Cinematic Bokeh: The 1.8x squeeze factor produces a unique, oval bokeh, adding to the cinematic feel.
• Characteristic Lens Flares: Known for their horizontal, streaky lens flares that are sought after in anamorphic cinematography.
• Color Rendering: Designed to deliver consistent color across the entire lens range, ensuring a uniform look in multi-lens productions.
• Focus and Iris Ring: Smooth and precise focus and iris rings for ease of use during filming.

Lens Range Sets

Great Joy may offer these anamorphic lenses in various focal lengths, typically ranging from wider angles to telephoto options. Common focal lengths in anamorphic lens sets include:

• Wide-Angle Lenses: For expansive shots, capturing more of the scene.
• Standard Lenses: Versatile for general use, ideal for a variety of scenes.
• Telephoto Lenses: Suitable for close-ups and compressing distance in the frame.

Each lens in the set is designed to maintain consistent performance and aesthetic qualities, ensuring seamless integration in multi-lens productions.

Applications

These lenses are ideal for:

• Cinematic film production.
• High-end commercial shoots.
• Music videos with a cinematic touch.
• Narrative filmmaking requiring a distinctive visual style.

The Great Joy 1.8x Anamorphic T2.9 2 Lens Set is a formidable choice for filmmakers who desire the classic anamorphic look with modern optical quality. Its versatility, robust build, and unique visual characteristics make it a valuable addition to any cinematographer’s toolkit.

Remember, the availability of specific focal lengths and technical specifications may vary, so it’s recommended to check with Great Joy or authorized dealers for the most current information on their anamorphic lens range sets.

BLAZAR (Great Joy) 35mm + 50mm + 85mm 1.8X Anamorphic Lens Bundle Kits – PL Mount + EF Mount Adapter

The Great Joy 1.8x Anamorphic T2.9 lenses are available in several focal lengths to cater to various cinematic needs. The current offerings include:

1. 35mm Lens: This lens offers full-frame coverage with a fast T2.9 maximum aperture. It is known for creating minimal flare, making it suitable for scenes where subtlety in lens flare is desired​​.
2. 50mm Lens: Also providing full-frame coverage and a T2.9 maximum aperture, the 50mm lens is distinctive for its classic anamorphic blue flares. This focal length is versatile and often used for general purposes in filmmaking​​.
3. 85mm Lens: The 85mm lens is the latest addition to this series. It maintains the same T2.9 maximum aperture and is designed for full-frame coverage. This lens is known for producing anamorphic amber flares, adding a unique aesthetic to the visuals​​​​.

These lenses are part of the Great Joy T2.9 1.8x Anamorphic 3-Lens Kit and are available with both ARRI PL and Canon EF interchangeable mounts, enhancing their compatibility with various camera systems​​. This range of focal lengths provides filmmakers with the flexibility to capture everything from wide-angle scenes to detailed close-ups, all while imparting the distinctive anamorphic look that is sought after in cinematic productions.

Amber and blue flares in anamorphic lenses each contribute distinct visual aesthetics to cinematography:

1. Amber Flares: These flares are known for complementing skin tones and enhancing both day and night shots. Amber flares add warmth to the image, making them suitable for scenes that require a more natural or intimate feel​​.
2. Blue Flares: Blue flares provide a cooler vibe and are especially popular in science fiction films. They contribute to creating a more futuristic or surreal atmosphere, often used to evoke a sense of mystery or otherworldliness.

In essence, the choice between amber and blue flares in anamorphic lenses depends largely on the thematic requirements and visual style of the film. Amber flares tend to add warmth and naturalness, while blue flares offer a cooler, more stylized look that is often associated with science fiction and fantasy genres.

The preference for a 1.8x or 2x squeeze ratio over a 1.3x squeeze ratio in anamorphic lenses when shooting film or digital content is based on several key reasons:

1. Wider Aspect Ratio: The 1.8x and 2x squeeze ratios produce a wider aspect ratio compared to the 1.3x ratio. This wider ratio is closer to the classic cinematic look associated with traditional anamorphic films. It offers a more expansive horizontal field, which is particularly appealing for cinematic landscapes and grand, sweeping shots.
2. Distinctive Optical Characteristics: Lenses with higher squeeze ratios, like 1.8x or 2x, tend to exhibit more pronounced anamorphic characteristics. These include the iconic oval bokeh and the striking horizontal lens flares, which are less pronounced in lenses with a 1.3x squeeze ratio. These visual elements are often sought after for their aesthetic appeal and their ability to add a unique, filmic quality to the footage.
3. Enhanced Depth and Dimensionality: A higher squeeze ratio can add a sense of depth and three-dimensionality to the image. This is because the anamorphic squeeze alters the way backgrounds and foregrounds interact, often creating a more immersive and engaging visual experience.
4. Cinematic Aesthetics: Filmmakers often prefer the 1.8x or 2x ratios because they are more closely associated with the traditional cinematic look of classic Hollywood films. This aesthetic is deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness of audiences and filmmakers alike, making it a desirable choice for projects aiming to capture that classic film feel.
5. Compatibility with Widescreen Formats: The higher squeeze ratios are well-suited for modern widescreen and ultra-widescreen formats. They allow filmmakers to fully utilize the screen space, making them ideal for cinematic releases and home entertainment systems that favor wide aspect ratios.

In contrast, the 1.3x squeeze ratio provides a less dramatic widescreen effect and is often used when a subtler anamorphic look is desired or when working with formats that are closer to standard aspect ratios. It’s a compromise that offers some anamorphic characteristics without the extreme width and pronounced optical effects of higher squeeze ratios.

BLAZAR NERO 1.5x Anamorphic Adapter

BLAZAR (Great Joy) NERO 1.5X Anamorphic Adapter

1. Design and Compatibility: The BLAZAR NERO 1.5x is a front single focus adapter with a 52mm rear filter thread. It’s designed for use with 28-85mm lenses when shooting Super 35 (S35) and 40-85mm lenses when shooting full frame​​​​.
2. Technical Specifications:
   • Squeeze Factor: 1.5X
   • Weight: 399g
   • Close Focus: 0.6m / 2 ft
   • Focus Rotation: 180°
   • Rear Thread: 52mm
   • Front Filter Thread: 62mm​​.
3. Usage and Optical Quality:
   • The adapter requires setting the focus to infinity on the lens, with focus adjustments made on the adapter itself​​.
   • It offers close-focus ability of 60cm / 1.96′​​.
   • Optical quality varies dramatically depending on the lens used, with recommendations to use it at f/4 and above for decent sharpness​​.
4. Pricing: As of the information available, the BLAZAR NERO 1.5x Anamorphic Adapter was retailing for around $899 USD​​.

Great Joy 1.35x Anamorphic Adapter

Great Joy 1.35X Anamorphic Adapter (1 in stock)

1. Concept and Design: This adapter is notable for its ability to be used with a 60mm T2.9 Full Frame 1.33x Anamorphic Lens to create a 1.8x anamorphic solution​​.
2. Flexibility in Use:
   • It can be used by itself with a spherical lens or combined with other 1.33x or 1.5x anamorphic lenses for added versatility​​.
   • The focus needs to be set to infinity on the main lens, with focus adjustments made on the adapter​​.
3. Optical Design and Mount Options:
   • The optical design of the associated 60mm T2.9 1.33x lens consists of 13 elements in 10 groups​​.
   • Available in mounts such as Canon RF, Leica L, Nikon Z, and Sony E​​.
4. Pricing: The introductory price for the Great Joy 1.35x Anamorphic Adapter was around $449 USD​​.

Both adapters offer filmmakers the opportunity to transform their spherical lenses into anamorphic ones, adding the distinctive cinematic look associated with anamorphic lenses. The BLAZAR NERO 1.5x is particularly noted for its lightweight and compact design, making it a suitable choice for travel and on-the-go filming. In contrast, the Great Joy 1.35x adapter provides versatility in combining with different lenses to achieve varying anamorphic effects. These adapters are ideal for filmmakers looking for budget-friendly options to explore the anamorphic aesthetic.

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