Larger coverage for Tokina glass
Posted on Apr 24, 2025 by Pro Moviemaker
Tokina’s Vista-P line just got wider and wilder – in a good way – with new 21mm and 29mm lenses that blend vintage vibes with modern precision
Tokina has expanded its Vista-P series with the addition of new 21mm and 29mm T1.5 cine lenses for large format coverage. These optics offer a unique, vintage character combined with a fast aperture and resolution that exceeds traditional vintage glass.
They join the existing Vista-P series to form a complete set of 11 lenses that share the same T1.5 T stop and cover Vista Vision-sized sensors. The complete range now includes 18, 21, 25, 29, 35, 40, 50, 65, 85, 100 and 135mm lenses. All the lenses 35mm and above have an area of definition that’s ideal for larger formats.
The images produced by the Vista-P optics have a distinctive style. At the edge of the frame, the look is similar to vintage glass like the Helios-44 or Petzval, with a swirl-type distortion favoured for portraits, but incredibly high resolution in the central area.
All the lenses have virtually no breathing, and the T1.5 maximum guarantees excellent separation between the subject and background when required.
The Vista-P series lenses look similar to the existing Vista versions, but are significantly re-engineered inside. Moving the placement of the lens elements has increased air-to-glass distance on hard-to-reach elements to deliberately introduce a much stronger spherical distortion. Essentially, this detunes the lenses to add distinctive character.
The images are also lower contrast due to the increased distance in air-to-glass surfaces.
A distortion effect will be most noticeable when using Vista Vision or full-frame cameras, but the effect can be lessened if Super 35 or smaller formats are used.
The Vista-P series of lenses are available brand new and already fully modified when purchased, or as a viable upgrade for the existing Vista prime lenses, which must be returned to Tokina in Japan for modification.
All Vista lenses have image circles with a 46.7mm area of definition, a 114mm front diameter and nine-blade iris. They come in PL, LPL, Sony E, EF or Micro Four Thirds mounts.
Both new models cost $8999, with UK prices yet to be set.
This article was first published in the March/April 2025 issue of Pro Moviemaker
