ARRI has released the Signature Prime Software Update Package 2.1, which includes features, like Cooke /i support, automatic image flip for Signature Prime 12/T1.8, and new LDS-2 features for visual effects. Read more below.
SUP 2.1 for the Signature Primes
As stated by ARRI: “We are proud to announce the release of Software Update Package (SUP) 2.1 for the Signature Prime Lenses. The newest members in the ARRI lens family are the large-format Signature Prime lenses with the ARRI LPL mount”. The SUP 2.1 includes Lens Firmware LMC V2.1, Lens Bootloader V1.5, and Sensor Firmware V2.06.
Features Overview
- Cooke /i support features automated protocol switching for use on third-party cameras.
- Automatic image flip for Signature Prime 12/T1.8.
- New LDS-2 (Lens Data System) features for visual effects: Precise entrance pupil position information for close focus depth-of-field calculations, and dynamic focal length information compensates for changes in image magnification at extreme close focus.
Compatibility Overview
The Software Update Package 2.1 for the Signature Prime Lenses is backward compatible to older Signature Prime versions, no camera update is required. Future ALEXA and AMIRA SUPs will support new lens metadata and automatic picture flip.
Contact your ARRI Service Center to arrange for lens software updates. No camera update is required. Go here for more info.
ARRI Signature Primes
Ranging from 12mm to 280mm, the ARRI Signature Primes lenses offer a uniquely warm look that is characterized by smooth skin and crisp black. The Signature Primes are considered ARRI’s flagship lenses. This unique glass was born due to the high demand for the large format look. The most notable utilization of the Signature Primes was in 1917. Cinematographer Roger Deakins shot the whole movie on the ALEXA Mini LF with the Signature Primes. According to Deakins, the main characteristics of the Signature Primes are minimal breathings and distortion, together with a clean and sharp image. “I don’t like vignetting; I don’t like breathing…. Can’t stand flares,” said Deakins when he describes the main benefits the Signature Primes. Read more in the article: Large Format Cinematography: Roger Deakins Talks About the ALEXA Mini LF.
HDR, bokeh and zero distortion
We wrote an article about the Signature Primes described by Art Adams, Cinema Lens Specialist at ARRI. Adams emphasized the big four strengths of the Signature Primes, which are: artistic bokeh, preciseness regarding 8K HDR imagery, minimization of lens flare and distortion even when shooting ultra-wide-angle. Read more on our dedicated article: ARRI Signature Primes Explained.
Summary
In the era of modern filmmaking, even the lenses need to be updated by firmware. It’s worth mentioning that this piece of glass is dedicated to being paired with high-end cinema cameras and utilized on top-notch productions backed by a professional crew. There is a whole universe of technology and the ecosystem behind it. To dive deeper and to learn more about the operation of the Signature Primes, consider taking the ARRI’s Certified Online Training for Large-Format Camera System, which we reviewed here. The course educates and demonstrates the Signature Primes, lens mounts, and how lens design has changed to accommodate large-format sensors.
