DZOFilm Vespid2 Prime Lenses: Full-Frame Cine Glass with Metadata Support
DZOFilm has expanded its line of full-frame cine lenses with the release of the Vespid2 Prime series—a successor to the original Vespid lenses. Designed with professional workflows and digital cinema cameras in mind, the Vespid2 primes offer a consistent form factor, improved optical performance, and Cooke /i Technology metadata support.
Overview
The Vespid2 series is a set of compact full-frame prime lenses available in focal lengths from 18mm to 105mm, with additional focal lengths planned. These lenses are designed for use in high-end video production, independent cinema, and commercial cinematography, with support for a wide range of digital cinema cameras.
Key Features
Full-Frame Coverage
Each Vespid2 lens covers a 46.5mm image circle, making the series compatible with full-frame and VistaVision sensors. This includes systems like the ARRI Alexa LF, RED V-Raptor, and Sony Venice.
Fast T1.9 Aperture
All lenses in the series feature a constant T1.9 maximum aperture, offering improved low-light performance and shallow depth of field compared to the T2.1 aperture of the original Vespid lenses.
Cooke /i Metadata Support
Vespid2 lenses integrate Cooke /i Technology, allowing digital communication of lens data—such as focal length, aperture, and focus distance—to compatible cameras. This is especially useful for virtual production, VFX-heavy shoots, and post-production workflows. Metadata is transmitted via a LEMO interface or contact pins, depending on mount configuration.
Design & Build
Compact & Lightweight
Each lens weighs approximately 800g, making the series well-suited for handheld, gimbal, and drone setups. The lenses are housed in aluminum alloy and feature consistent outer dimensions to streamline rigging and lens swaps.
Uniform Mechanics
- 80mm front diameter across the entire lineup
- 0.8 MOD cinema-standard gear rings for both focus and iris
- 300° focus rotation, improved from the 270° rotation of earlier models
- Consistent gear placement across all focal lengths for ease of use with follow-focus systems
Optical Construction
The lenses utilize aspherical elements and multi-layer coatings to reduce chromatic aberration and internal reflections. Optical performance has been tuned for cinematic rendering with attention to contrast, edge-to-edge sharpness, and minimal focus breathing.
Lens Set & Availability
The initial release includes six focal lengths:
- 18mm T1.9
- 24mm T1.9
- 35mm T1.9
- 50mm T1.9
- 85mm T1.9
- 105mm T1.9
Each lens is available individually or as part of a 6-lens kit, which includes a protective hard case. The initially released lenses are available now - additional focal lengths are expected to be released in the future.
Mount options currently include PL and EF, with user-interchangeable mounts available through DZOFilm or third-party vendors.
Use Cases
The Vespid2 Prime lenses are positioned for:
- Narrative and documentary filmmakers using full-frame cinema cameras
- Commercial production environments requiring reliable metadata capture
- Virtual production and VFX workflows
- Mobile and lightweight camera setups where compact size and uniform handling are essential
Compatibility
The Vespid2 lenses are compatible with a broad range of camera platforms, including:
- ARRI Alexa LF / Mini LF
- RED V-Raptor (VistaVision and Super35 modes)
- Sony Venice / Venice 2
- Canon C500 Mark II
- Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K (FF-compatible with PL mount)
Conclusion
The DZOFilm Vespid2 Prime series represents a scalable cine lens solution aimed at full-frame digital cinematography. With support for Cooke /i metadata, matched mechanics, and a fast T1.9 aperture across all lenses, the series is designed to meet modern production needs while maintaining a compact footprint and competitive pricing.
