FUJIFILM Launches Latest Addition to ‘MK’ Cinema Lens Series

The Optical Devices Division of FUJIFILM announces the official launch of the latest in its “MK” Series of cinema lenses – the FUJINON MK50-135mm T2.9 zoom. The MK50-135mm was shown as a companion lens to the MK18-55mm T2.9 zoom, introduced in February, during the NAB show last month. The MK50-135mm will be on display to a motion picture and television production community at Cine Gear Expo 2017 in Hollywood, June 2 and 3, and to documentary and reality producers at Realscreen West in Santa Monica on June 6-8. 

The MK50-135mm is the same size and weight as the MK18-55mm, but with a 50-135mm focal length (both in the Super 35mm format). “It has all the performance that makes the MK18-55mm so exciting,” says Tom Fletcher, Director of Sales, Optical Devices Division of FUJIFILM. “It has no breathing, no ramping, and the same par focal capabilities – all wrapped up in a new focal length for the series.”

FUJINON MK50-135mm T2.9 zoom

Footage shot by DP Philip Bloom using an MK50-135mm T2.9 lens will be posted shortly. With a combined focal length range of 18mm-135mm, together the MK18-55mm and MK50-135mm lenses cover the most frequently used range utilized by emerging cinematographers. The series offers lenses with T2.9 speed across the entire zoom range, enabling a shallow depth-of-field.

The entire “MK” series is designed with the ‘emerging’ cinematographer in mind, whether shooting a live event, online programming, documentary, corporate video, wedding, independent or short film production. “MK” lenses are currently designed for E-mount cameras and boast advanced optical performance, ultra-compact and lightweight design, as well as superb cost performance.

In addition to their lightweight and compact build, the “MK” lenses are purpose-built for the operator. Only one matte box and one filter size are needed between the lenses. Time-saving features include a macro function that allows for a broader range of close-up shooting, and gears for the three rings are positioned in the exact same place, which eliminates the need to re-position accessories when switching lenses.

“Many independent shooters use DSLR lenses, which aren’t designed for moving images,” adds Fletcher. “Most still lenses breathe considerably, and they have no adjustable manual iris. Our MK’s have a seamless manual iris, zero breathing, no ramping or zoom shift, and 200-degree focus rotation. They maintain focus completely throughout the zoom range while covering Super 35mm sensors.”

The “MK” lenses are compatible with E-mount cameras with the Super 35mm/APS-C sensor. X Mount versions of the MK lenses (with focal lengths of 18-55mm and 50-135mm) used in the FUJIFILM X Series line of digital cameras (with APS-C sensors) are being developed for launch by the end of this year. Information about the X Mount lenses will be provided as soon as more details are confirmed. The MK50-135mm lens is available for $3,999, with delivery beginning in mid-July.