Venus Optics is shaking up the anamorphic lens market with a new modular design that allows camera operators to swap out lens flare modules for the perfect look.
With a 2x anamorphic squeeze and organic falloff, the Laowa Proteus 2X anamorphic lenses offer a modern twist on a classic optical design.
Image Credit – Venus Optics
Available in six focal lengths, ranging from 28mm to 100mm, the Laowa Proteus Flex 2x lenses provide sharp close-focus capabilities while minimizing focus breathing – an issue that can distract viewers.
For those looking to reduce lens flare and optical reflections, the Proteus Flex series offers a specialized coating that suppresses horizontal streaks when shooting into strong light.
Image Credit – Venus Optics
The Proteus Flex series features a constant 2x squeeze ratio and a steady T2 aperture, which creates a pleasing oval bokeh.
The 2x squeeze ratio provides a 2.66:1 aspect ratio on a 4:3 sensor and a 2.4:1 AR on a 6:5 sensor after de-squeeze. Plenty of room to crop to a golden 2.39:1 aspect ratio.
Plus, with a 1.4x expander, users can achieve full-frame coverage.
Modular Lens Flares
Despite the optical performance, the standout feature of the Proteus Flex system is its interchangeable lens flare modules.
Each lens in the series comes with four swappable modules that allow for different flare colors – amber, silver, blue, or clear -offering flexibility in creating the iconic anamorphic look.
Swapping out the lens flare module is a straightforward process that Laowa claims takes under ten minutes.
The modules screw-lock into a precision-crafted main body and are engineered to perfectly match each lens without the need for further optical calibration.
Image Credit – Venus Optics
This design eliminates the need to choose a specific flare type at the time of purchase, offering filmmakers greater flexibility and value.
Rental houses will also benefit from this cost-effective solution, as they can maintain a broader inventory without unnecessary duplication.
Image Credit – Venus Optics
Pricing and Availability
The Laowa Proteus Flex 2X Anamorphic Lens series is available for preorder in either PL or EF mounts for $9,999 per lens, or in two three-lens sets for $24,999. Prices may vary in other nations.
The lenses available include focal lengths of 28mm T2, 35mm T2, 45mm T2, 60mm T2, 85mm T2, and 100mm T2. Set A includes the 28mm, 45mm, and 85mm lenses, while Set B offers the 35mm, 60mm, and 100mm lenses.
While the price may seem steep compared to other anamorphic lenses, each lens includes four different flare modules, making it feel like getting four lenses for the price of one – a detail rental houses are sure to appreciate.
[source: Venus Optics]
Order Links:
- Venus Optics Laowa Proteus Flex 2x Anamorphic 28mm T2 Lens (B&H)
- Venus Optics Laowa Proteus Flex 2x Anamorphic 35mm T2 Lens (B&H)
- Venus Optics Laowa Proteus Flex 2x Anamorphic 45mm T2 Lens (B&H)
- Venus Optics Laowa Proteus Flex 2x Anamorphic 60mm T2 Lens (B&H)
- Venus Optics Laowa Proteus Flex 2x Anamorphic 85mm T2 Lens (B&H)
- Venus Optics Laowa Proteus Flex 2x Anamorphic 100mm T2 Lens (B&H)
- Venus Optics Laowa Proteus Flex 28, 45 & 85mm 3-Lens Set (B&H)
- Venus Optics Laowa Proteus Flex 35, 60 & 100mm 3-Lens Set (B&H)
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