The 58mm Petzval T2.1 lens is a modern reinterpretation of the classic 19th-century optical design, specifically geared for filmmakers. It produces a distinctive swirly bokeh effect that intensifies towards the edges of the frame, alongside high central sharpness. Its fast T2.1 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field. This lens features geared focus and aperture rings for cine compatibility and delivers a unique, artistic, and vintage aesthetic that sets it apart from conventional lenses.
Overview
- Modern reinterpretation of a classic Petzval optical design
- Produces unique, distinctive swirly bokeh
- High central sharpness with creative edge fall-off
- Fast T2.1 aperture for low light and shallow depth of field
- Geared focus and aperture rings for cine accessories
- Ideal for creative portraits, dreamlike sequences, and artistic projects
- All-metal construction with vintage styling
- Delivers a unique, artistic, and vintage aesthetic
| Focal Length | Aperture | Close focus | Front Diameter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 58mm | T2.1 | 61cm | 2′ | 110mm |
Embracing Distinctive Swirly Bokeh
The hallmark of the Petzval design is its captivating swirling blur effect in the out-of-focus areas. To truly maximise this unique artistic flair, position your subject against busy or textured backgrounds. This will make the mesmerising bokeh particularly noticeable and help draw the viewer’s eye towards your sharp, central subject, giving your footage an instantly recognisable, dreamlike aesthetic.
Highlighting Central Sharpness
While the lens intentionally introduces field curvature and vignette towards the edges to enhance its vintage, dreamlike aesthetic, the centre of the frame remains impressively sharp. Focus on composing your shots to keep your primary subject within this sharp central region, letting the unique optical characteristics of the periphery add character without distracting from your focal point.
Utilising the Fast T2.1 Aperture
The wide T2.1 aperture is not just excellent for low-light conditions; it is absolutely crucial for achieving the pronounced swirly bokeh effect and an extremely shallow depth of field. Shoot wide open whenever possible to fully exploit these unique optical properties and create dramatic subject isolation.
Seamless Cine Integration
This lens features geared focus and aperture rings, which are essential for professional video production. Ensure you integrate it with follow focus systems and lens motors for seamless and precise focus pulls, allowing you to maintain critical focus even with the shallow depth of field.
Understanding its Artistic Purpose
The 58mm Petzval is not a lens designed for clinical perfection or edge-to-edge sharpness. Instead, it’s a powerful unique cinematic tool for those seeking a highly stylised, expressive, and vintage look that instantly sets their work apart from conventionally sharp modern lenses. Embrace its imperfections as part of its charm.
Mastering Manual Focus
As a fully manual lens, achieving precise focus requires careful operation, particularly given the shallow depth of field at wide apertures. Practice with the geared focus ring to nail critical focus, and consider using focus assist tools on your monitor to ensure sharpness.