Make: Zeiss
Model: CP.2 Set
My use: I ordered the 7 lens set while at UNC-Greensboro. Primarily, this lens set was to be used for the Panasonic AF-100; however, the lenses were also perfectly compatible with the 7d, 5d and RED One. In fact, I got the Canon mounts on the lenses, as adapter rings on the AF-100 or RED One would sustain the weight better than on a DSLR.
Average Price: $26,700 (for 7 lens set; they are sold in a 5 lens set or individually as well)
My thoughts: To date, these are my favorite lenses that I have used. They are compact, precise and an excellent quality of glass. At UNC-Greensboro, we had a set of RED Pro Primes with the RED One package which included a 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, 300mm and 18-85mm zoom; these Zeiss CP.2 blew them all out of the water. Not only are they smaller and easier to handle, but more precise in measurements and calibration. The 7 lens set includes an 18mm, 21mm, 25mm, 28mm, 35mm, 50mm and 85mm prime lenses and two sturdy, well-padded hard plastic carrying cases with rollers. Though the price sounds high, in terms of good lens cost, it’s actually very reasonable. If I had the cash on hand and one lens set to buy, it would likely be these wonderful cine lenses. Though I love Cookes S4s and ARRI Master Primes, these little guys can stand their own and are a fraction of the cost. If you’re shooting regularly and have the cash on hand, these would be a wonderful investment.
Technical Specs from the Manufacturer (for 35mm Prime as representational of other 6 prime lenses included):
Mount | Interchangeable PL |
Focal Length | 35mm |
Aperture | T2.1 |
Elements/Groups | 9/7 |
Front Lens Diameter | 114mm |
Minimum Object Distance (M.O.D.) | 12″ (0.3m) |
Length | 3.15″ (8cm) |
Weight | 2.2 lbs (1kg) |
Bottom Line: If you are ready to make the jump to professional grade cine glass, but want to do so at a fraction of the cost in regards to some of the competitors, then I highly recommend the Zeiss CP.2s. In a perfect world, going with the 7 lens set complete with carrying cases, is a great buy. But, these are still expensive lenses for small companies and individuals and can be bought separately and built into a nice set over time. Either way, you will not be disappointed in the sharpness and quality of the image these lenses produce. Furthermore, you won’t be breaking your back to lug these primes around on set.