

The bokeh on lenses with rear anamorphs is more rectangular. Front anamorphs are more common, but rear anamorphs are also well distributed.Ĭhanging the position of the anamorph changes the image slightly. Rear Versus Front AnamorphsĪnamorphic lenses can have the anamorph, the element that compresses the image, in the rear or front of the lens’ spherical part. Playing with aspect ratios can make anamorphic footage more exciting. Today digital anamorphic images can have a variety of different ratios. However, with the rise of digital filmmaking, this traditional aspect ratio has become less important. That aspect ratio was initially chosen to fit perfectly in 35 mm film. Traditional anamorphic lenses have a 2.39:1 aspect ratio, which is commonly rounded up to 2.40. Cinematographers should experiment with different lenses to determine which works best for their needs. In fact, horizontal resolution can be reduced with an anamorphic lens as the aspect ratio is too high. A digital camera with a spherical lens captures wide enough footage for many cinematographers, with negligible cropping. Anamorphic lenses often distort vertical lines.ĭigital cameras usually have a higher aspect ratio than those using 35 mm film.Some advanced cameras have decompression functions that combat this. This can make framing and composing shots difficult. In most cases, you will work with horizontally compressed footage.There is less choice between anamorphic lenses.Image quality from anamorphic lenses often isn’t as sharp as spherical lenses as they have more glass elements.Anamorphic lenses are more complex and expensive.Anamorphic lenses often have slow maximum apertures, so you can only use them in well-lit settings.Anamorphic lenses are larger and heavier, which can make them cumbersome on active shoots.

Anamorphic lenses create blue-colored horizontal or vertical lens flare.Here are some additional points worth considering. While these are the main advantages of using an anamorphic lens, some other considerations may sway your choice. Other Considerations for Working with Anamorphic Lenses However, most say it’s the way all these advantages work together that make anamorphic lenses really special. Some cinematographers prize certain benefits, like the wider field-of-view and deeper magnification. See the World Cinematically (The Anamorphic Look)Īll these elements combine to create more dramatic, cinematic-looking footage through an anamorphic lens. The small oval balls are subtle but striking enough to enhance footage. Oval BokehĪn anamorphic lens has uniquely shaped elements that create an unusual oval bokeh, instead of the round one created by most lenses. This ability helps cinematographers save time and money. Capture More of the Scene From the Same SpotĪdding an anamorphic lens to a drone or cell phone lets modern cinematographers capture more of any scene without moving.
