DZOFilm Catta Zoom lenses announced
Image courtesy: DZOFilm

DZOFilm has launched two new full-frame cinema zoom lenses. Branded as Catta Zoom, the lens line includes a 35mm to 80mm lens and a 70mm to 135mm lens. In addition, both lenses have a maximum aperture of T2.9.

Parfocal

As cinema lenses, the DZOFilm Catta Zoom lenses are parfocal. This means that unlike still photography lenses, the focus remains constant when you change the focal length. When setting up a shot, you can zoom all the way in and set your focus. You can then zoom out to your desired framing while your image is sharp.

T-stops

DZOFilm Catta Zoom lenses together
Image courtesy: DZOFilm

Both models of the lens have an aperture range from T2.9 to T22. Cinema lenses use T-stops rather than f-stops as they are an actual tested value, not a theoretical value. DZOFilm has used an aperture diaphragm with 16 blades which gives a smooth and round bokeh. Both lenses have a minimum focus distance of around 2.5 feet so that you can get some great close-ups with an attractive blurred background.

Lightweight

The DZOFilm Catta Zoom lenses are big, measuring around 8.4 inches long. However, DZOFilm has kept the weight down by designing the body of the lenses from polycarbonate and glass fiber. The 70-135mm model weighs only 3.5 pounds and the 35-80mm is a couple of pounds lighter still. This also means that the lenses are ideal for handheld use or on a gimbal.

Geared rings

The lenses have a distinctive white finish with geared rings for aperture, zoom and focus. The focus ring has 270 degrees of travel for smooth and precise focusing. Also, according to DZOFilm, it has eliminated focus breathing. This means that the image won’t change size when you rack focus.

Rear filter

DZOFilm Catta Zoom lenses announced
Image courtesy: DZOFilm

In addition to the 77mm filter thread at the front, the DZOFilm Catta Zoom lenses have a plug-in rear filter slot. DZOFilm says that this can be used for ND, UV, streak and mist filters. However, the company hasn’t released further details of those filters yet.

Interchangeable mount

The DZOFilm Catta Zoom lenses come with a Sony E-mount as standard. However, you can easily swap the quick-release lens mount for an optional RF, L, Z or X mount instead. The DZOFilm website also promises that PL and EF versions will be available next year.

Pricing and availability

The DZOFilm DZOFilm Catta Zoom lenses are available for preorder now, priced at $3,099 each. They are also available as a two-lens kit in a hard-shell case for $5,899.