The Optimo 44-440 is long range anamorphic zoom, which features an aperture of T4.5 and close focus of just over 4 feet. Weighing in at around 16.6 lbs, this is one of the lightest long range anamorphic zoom lenses available. Probably one of the most interesting features of this lens, however, is the option to remove and replace its rear anamorphic optical element with a spherical one, converting it to a 25-250mm lens with T3.5 aperture. This is huge for those who don't necessarily shoot anamorphic that often, as this one lens can be adapted depending on project requirements. One thing to keep in mind, this lens covers a 28.8mm image circle, which will not cover cameras like the Phantom Flex, Flex4K or the RED Epic, so be sure to double check your sensor size. Angenieux offers the 44-440mm in a PL mount that can be easily converted to the PV Panavision mount.
This is the third lens in the anamorphic zoom family, joining the existing 30-72mm and 56-152mm options. With the addition of the 44-440mm, Angenieux has created a complete set of anamorphic zoom lenses that are light, as well as compact, allowing these three lenses to handle a whole production. For more in depth information, watch the full conversation above.
