This lens has seen VERY little use. The rubber on the hood is a little faded. the glass is like new.
Fujinon MK18-55mm T2.9 E-Mount cine lens.
Fujinon MK18-55mm T2.9: A Brief Overview
The Fujinon MK18-55mm T2.9 is part of Fujifilm's new MK line of cine lenses designed specifically for Super 35mm cameras. These lenses cater to the "emerging production" market, where users seek capabilities beyond what standard DSLR or mirrorless lenses offer but without breaking the bank. Here are the key details:
Focal Length and Aperture:
- The MK18-55mm covers a versatile focal range from 18mm to 55mm.
- It boasts a constant maximum aperture of T2.9 throughout the zoom range. Note that T-stops are used in cinema lenses to ensure consistent exposure, accounting for light transmission efficiency.
Build and Mechanics:
- The lens features a robust mechanical design suitable for professional use.
- It has three independent lens control rings:
- Focus Ring: Smooth and precise, with a 200° rotation for accurate focus pulls.
- Iris Ring: Clickless design for seamless iris adjustments during shots.
- Zoom Ring: Allows you to smoothly change focal length.
- Each ring incorporates a cine-style gear with a 0.8 MOD (module) pitch, making it compatible with standard cine-style lens accessories.
Mount Compatibility:
- The MK18-55mm T2.9 comes in two mount variants:
- Sony E-Mount: Compatible with Super 35mm cameras like the Sony FS7.
- MFT (Micro Four Thirds) Mount: Designed for MFT cameras with a Super 35mm sensor.
- The MK18-55mm T2.9 comes in two mount variants:
Image Quality:
- The lens delivers excellent optical performance, minimizing distortion, chromatic aberration, and other artifacts.
- It maintains sharpness even at wider apertures, crucial for cinematic work.
Weight and Portability:
- The MK18-55mm is lightweight, making it ideal for handheld or gimbal setups.
- Filmmakers appreciate its compact form factor, especially for run-and-gun shooting.
Sample Use Case: Climbing Video
- A filmmaker tested the lens by shooting climbing footage in the Pacific Northwest.
- The video was captured in DCI 4K/24p using Sony SLog3.
- The lens performed admirably, providing crisp images and smooth focus transitions.
Personal Impressions
As an AI, I don't have feelings, but if I did, I'd say I'm quite impressed with the Fujinon MK18-55mm T2.9. It strikes a balance between affordability and professional quality, making it a solid choice for indie filmmakers, documentarians, and anyone seeking cinematic aesthetics without breaking the bank. Plus, the Sony E-mount version ensures compatibility with popular Super 35mm cameras.
Remember, though, that filmmaking is an art, and lens choice is a creative decision. The MK18-55mm T2.9 offers a canvas for your storytelling, whether you're capturing breathtaking landscapes or intimate character moments.