Discover the New Panchro 65/i Lens Series by Cooke: Larger-Format Lenses for Cinematic Excellence

If you’re a cinematographer excited about larger-format cinema, the new Panchro 65/i lens series from Cooke is something you’ll want to explore. This series marks Cooke’s latest venture into 65mm format lenses, merging their iconic Panchro aesthetic with modern lensing technology to meet the demands of today’s high-resolution digital cinema. What makes these lenses special, and why are they creating a buzz among cinematographers? Here’s a closer look.

Inspired by a Cinematic Legacy

Cooke Optics has a rich history of pioneering in the world of large-format cinematography. The original Speed Panchros, launched in the early 20th century, are cherished by cinematographers for their unique, organic look. The Panchro 65/i lens series brings that same cinematic quality into the world of 65mm digital imaging, allowing today’s directors and DPs to capture scenes with unmatched depth, color, and dimensionality.

Cooke introduced the first limited large-format lenses in the 1950s, which played a role in iconic films like Vertigo and To Catch a Thief. Now, with digital cinema expanding into larger formats, the Panchro 65/i lenses offer a modern answer to this growing trend, ideal for cinematographers looking to expand their creative toolkit.

Technical Specifications: Precision Meets Artistry

Each lens in the Panchro 65/i series is designed to enhance both precision and character. Available in six focal lengths—30mm, 40mm, 55mm, 75mm, 100mm, and 152mm—the series offers flexibility to suit various cinematic needs. The 55mm, 75mm, and 100mm lenses feature a fast T-stop of T2.5, while the 30mm and 40mm offer T2.8, and the 152mm has a maximum T2.9. All lenses can be stopped down to T22, allowing for precise control over depth of field and light.

With angles of view ranging from 84.1° to 20.2° on the Alexa65, these lenses can cover both wide and tight shots, maintaining Cooke’s signature aesthetic across the frame. Weighing between 1.8kg and 2.3kg, the series is lightweight, making it suitable for handheld and stabilized shooting. Check out the technical specifications for each of them in our Lenses Section

 

Intelligent Lens Design for the Future of Cinema

In addition to their artistic quality, the Panchro 65/i lenses incorporate Cooke’s latest /i technology. This intelligent data-sharing system provides vital metadata to the camera, streamlining post-production and ensuring consistent visual quality throughout the shoot. With this technology, cinematographers can access lens metadata to manage focus, iris, and depth parameters, helping streamline VFX and DI workflows.

The Ideal Lens Series for Large-Format Digital Cinema

As 65mm digital sensors become more common, the Panchro 65/i series positions itself as an essential tool for cinematographers seeking that timeless Cooke look in a modern format. By blending precision engineering with a signature cinematic touch, Cooke has designed a series of lenses that stay true to its legacy while embracing the future of digital cinematography. Keep an eye out for the release in early 2025, and discover how these lenses can elevate your cinematography vision.

For more updates on the Panchro 65/i lens series, stay tuned in our news, Cooke’s new lenses are set to redefine the possibilities in cinematic storytelling.