Unveiled: Fujinon MK Zoom Cine Lenses

Here at B&H Photo Video, we are pleased to share Fujinon’s introduction of a new pair of cine-style zoom lenses—the 18-55mm T2.9 and the 50-135mm T2.9. Whether your productions are feature or short films, dramatic television series or commercials, the MK lens series provides both the superior look and professional performance required for your cinema-style projects. Continuing the Fujinon legacy of crisp, sharp optics and high build quality, the MK series zooms feature high-quality optics, low distortion, and colors standardized to align with Fujinon HK, ZK, and XK series lenses. This pair of 18-55mm and 50-135mm zooms features a fast, consistent T2.9 maximum iris speed while bringing cine-style specific features to the table.

Certain elements of traditional DSLR lens design leave something to be desired; the MK zooms have been expressly designed to resolve those issues. Unlike traditional still photography DSLR zooms, the MKs are parfocal lenses, holding their focus after the focal length is changed by zooming in or out on your subject. Another still lens caveat is lens “breathing.” If you’ve ever noticed that your angle of view has changed after focusing on your target (almost as if you were zooming) you’ve seen an example of the lens breathing that can occur when using conventional still lenses. The MK series’ internal front focus design minimizes any breathing.

Shallow depth of field is one of the hallmarks of the “cinema look.” As beautiful as these images may be to gaze upon, critical focus is difficult for a camera assistant or operator to maintain, especially in minimal light situations. The MK series features lens barrels with 200˚ of rotation, providing additional room for precise marks to help the focus puller. A boon for shooters accustomed to using ENG-type zooms is the MK series’ fully manual focus, iris, and zoom lens rings. Whether you’re using a manual follow focus mechanism, adjusting the lens with your hand on the barrel, or employing a motorized, wireless FIZ control, fine adjustments can be made instantaneously, without the lag inherent in some ENG-type controls. The MK lens rings all have an industry-standard 0.8M gear pitch and these zooms’ iris rings are “click-less” for smooth, precise adjustments.

When camera assistants prep their equipment package before a shoot, one thing they look for when testing the lenses is whether the image stays centered in the lens after zooming. The tendency of still lenses to skew away from the center is called optical axis shift. The MK series zooms are assembled with proven Fujinon techniques so that optical shift is eliminated, enabling you to capture a zoom shot just as you envisioned.

The MK18-55mm and 50-135mm T2.9 zooms sport clear, easy-to-read focus, iris, and zoom marks. The focal-length range is engraved horizontally in large type on each lens barrel, making it easier to quickly select your chosen lens when setting up. Compatible with Super 35mm sensors, these E-mount zooms are compact and lightweight, suiting them for handheld work and quick setups. Rounding out the MK series’ cine-style features are adjustable flange depth, a macro function, and an 85mm front diameter for compatibility with most matte boxes.