The Zeiss Super Speed lenses are a classic set of Super 35 primes with a legendary status in filmmaking. Known for their fast T1.3 aperture and compact, lightweight design, they are a practical choice for a variety of shoots. They deliver a unique, low-contrast, and slightly flaring image that is often sought after for its vintage, cinematic character. The lenses offer a smooth focus feel and are robustly built for professional use.
Overview
- Classic “vintage look” with low contrast and pleasing flares
- Extremely fast T1.3 maximum aperture
- Very compact and lightweight design
- Excellent for low-light filming and achieving a shallow depth of field
- Smooth manual focus feel with a short focus throw
- Popular for handheld and Steadicam work
- Super 35 format coverage
- Geared focus and iris rings for cine accessories
| Focal Length | Aperture | Close focus | Front Diameter | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18mm | T1.3 | 25cm | 10″ | 80mm | 1.3 Kg | |
| 25mm | T1.3 | 25cm | 10″ | 80mm | 0.9 Kg | |
| 35mm | T1.3 | 37cm | 1’2″ | 80mm | 0.8 Kg | |
| 50mm | T1.3 | 73cm | 2’4″ | 80mm | 0.8 Kg | |
| 85mm | T1.3 | 92cm | 3′ | 80mm | 0.9 Kg | |
| 135mm | T2.1 | 150cm | 4’9 | 80mm | 1.0 Kg |
Embrace the Low-Contrast Look
The Super Speeds are not a modern, sterile lens. Their slightly lower contrast and tendency to flare can be used creatively to add a soft, organic, or nostalgic character to your images. Don’t be afraid to let light sources hit the lens directly to achieve a desired flare effect.
Work with the Fast Aperture
With their T1.3 aperture, these lenses are perfect for low-light situations. You can use minimal or available light to create a more naturalistic look, or for shots that require an extremely shallow depth of field.
Choose for Agility & Handheld
The compact and lightweight design of the Super Speeds makes them a popular choice for handheld, gimbal, or drone work. They are easy to balance and handle for long periods.
Plan for Focus Breathing
Unlike modern lenses with advanced designs, the Super Speeds will exhibit some focus breathing. It’s a characteristic of their design that can be used for effect but is important to be aware of during critical focus pulls.
Be Mindful of the Vintage Feel
These lenses are not optically perfect, which is part of their appeal. The character they provide may not be suitable for every project, but they are an excellent option when a specific, classic film look is desired.