Today, Tokina has introduced the newest member of its Cinema Vista Prime family, the 40mm T1.5. This popular focal length is being requested for a while by filmmakers. As expected from a Vista Prime glass, the 40 mm T1.5 is characterized by solid and heavy structure and high-end optics. Read more below.

The Tokina Vista Primes

The Cinema Vista primes exhibit an image circle that exceeds that of 35 mm full-frame, making them an excellent choice for large format cameras. The series also benefits from a design that produces nearly zero focus breathing. Furthermore, the Vista lenses were designed to optimally capturing the entire large sensors, with sharp imagery, even when recording 8K resolution. The lenses are armed with a full metal housing which allows durability. However, these are pretty heavy solid lenses which demand proper lens support. The series’ slogan is: “Very fast (T1.5), Zero breathing. Immaculate look”. The price range is $5,000 to $8,500 for the 135mm.

Very fast (T1.5), Zero breathing. Immaculate look.

Vista Prime 40 mm T1.5

Tokina has today expanded its range with the introduction of the new Vista 40mm T1.5. The much-requested 40mm focal length is considered by many to be the perfect ‘normal’ lens to portray a natural field of view on a large format cinema camera – and joins the existing seven-strong set of 18mm T1.5, 25mm T1.5, 35mm T1.5, 50mm T1.5, 85mm T1.5, 105mm T1.5, and 135mm T1.5 high resolution (8K+) Vista prime lenses. Tokina states that the mid-wide image created by the 40mm T1.5 does not distract the viewer and offers a unique perspective when compared to the staple 35mm and 50mm focal lenses.

Design

The 9-bladed iris provides round out-of-focus highlights for a natural-looking bokeh. The lens barrel features approximately 300° of rotation from close focus to infinity, giving you a high degree of precision when pulling focus. The lens is designed to minimize focus breathing, and it features geared manual focus and iris rings. Markings on both sides of the lens barrel make it readable from either side of the camera.

Large format covering

The 40mm T1.5 has an area of the definition of 46.7mm which easily covers RED Monstro 8K VV and Alexa LF Mini 5.7K Open Gate formats. The lens also has an area of illumination that will cover larger formats up to Alexa65 2:1 Open Gate. The lens retains the same form factor as other Vista Prime lenses with a 114mm front diameter and weight of approximately 2.25kg (5 lbs) which is similar to others in the series. It is available in interchangeable ARRI PL, EF, MFT, Sony E, and ARRI LPL mounts.

Tokina Vista Prime 40 mm T1.5 highlights

• Focal Length: 40mm
• Full-Frame: 46.7mm Image Circle
• Internal Focus Design
• Max Aperture: T1.5
• Coverage: 35FF, VV
• Lens Mount: PL, EF, E, M43, LPL
• Front Dia: 114mm
• Filter Thread: 112mm

For complete technical specifications explore the table below:

Price and availability

The 40mm T1.5 can be preordered on B&H for $7,499.00 USD.

Final thoughts

40 mm is a great focal length. Actually, it’s considered as the natural focal length, and when combined with large format cinematography, it allows an ideal combination of  DOV, FOV, and bokeh. If I had to choose the most desired focal length, I’d choose 40. Nevertheless, the price point is a bit steep.

Would you consider ordering one? Let’s know your insights in the comments section below.