Uploaded March 2024 | Updated September 2026, 13 hours ago
Join cinematographers Kees van Oostrum ASC and Saba Mazloum as they compare Cooke’s Varotal/i FF zooms with the S8/i FF prime series. The duo discuss matching these lens series which allows the cinematographer ultimate focal length flexibility.
The tests were all shot on location on the ARRI Alexa LF at T2.9, 800 ISO. The comparison showcases direct and veiling flare, matching black levels and colours along with bokeh structure and edge-to-edge sharpness. Full aspect tests are followed by cropped two up shots allowing for direct comparison between the lenses throughout a number of scenarios including close up beauty lighting and dramatic high-contrast wide establishing shots.
Matching a zoom lens to a prime is no easy engineering feat; the zoom has 27 elements and the prime 9 so maintaining consistency in look within that is a bold undertaking which Cooke have excelled at.
Join cinematographers Kees van Oostrum ASC and Saba Mazloum as they compare Cooke’s Varotal/i FF zooms with the S8/i FF prime series. The duo discuss matching these lens series which allows the cinematographer ultimate focal length flexibility.
The tests were all shot on location on the ARRI Alexa LF at T2.9, 800 ISO. The comparison showcases direct and veiling flare, matching black levels and colours along with bokeh structure and edge-to-edge sharpness. Full aspect tests are followed by cropped two up shots allowing for direct comparison between the lenses throughout a number of scenarios including close up beauty lighting and dramatic high-contrast wide establishing shots.
Matching a zoom lens to a prime is no easy engineering feat; the zoom has 27 elements and the prime 9 so maintaining consistency in look within that is a bold undertaking which Cooke have excelled at.
