The Hawk V-Lite 2x Anamorphic primes , aptly named for their extremely small form factor, are incredible builds in the anamorphic space.

THE HAWK V-LITES

Much can be said about the physical characteristics of the V-Lite anamorphics—but what comes first with these optics is its unique look. The V-Lite 2x anamorphics were built to match the look of the Hawk anamorphics, which have been in circulation for over a decade. In addition to ultra-cinematic qualities like a 2x squeeze ratio and a dynamic anamorphic aesthetic, this look is defined by minimal distortion, increased definition and amplified contrast across the entire range. As the “2x” signifies, the V-Lite anamorphic cine primes have a squeeze ratio of 2x. What this means is that the anamorphic lens captures twice as much horizontal information as vertical, resulting in an image that appears more stretched. This 2x squeeze feels “cinematic” in that special anamorphic way, lending compositions to a wider field of view. Words describe, but they can’t affect you like an image. Check out the lens test below from cinematographer John W. Rutland, which showcases the full expression of these cine primes at their wide open T-stop.

	ANAMORPHIC LENS TEST - HAWK V-LITE 2x ANAMORPHICS from JOHN W. RUTLAND on Vimeo.

One of the most notable anamorphic qualities in this footage is the incredible flare response of the V-Lite anamorphics. Sharp, streak-shaped flares give the frame volume and a sense of urgency—delivering on the promise of the anamorphic format. Pleasing barrel distortion lends a tactile feel to these primes, especially towards the wider end of the spectrum.  The reactive elements of the anamorphic look, paired with the precise mechanics and sleek look, is the magic combination of vintage-and-modern that renders a unique anamorphic look for the V-Lite cine primes.

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THE HAWK V-LITE 2x ANAMORPHIC BUILD

The V-Lite primes are the natural evolution of anamorphic lenses—a stunningly expressive anamorphic aesthetic encased in a lightweight housing with precise mechanics. Although the V-Lite primes are a continuation of the Vantage anamorphic look, these cine lenses are designed from scratch; the traditional anamorphic look updated with new optics. Enough cannot be said about the robust form factor of the V-Lite anamorphic. As Vantage touts, the weight of every lens has been reduced up to 20% in this lens package. The weight of the individual lenses range from 1.91-2.93kg (4.4-6.4lbs). This lightweight-yet-sturdy build allows the V-Lites to work for all sorts of rigs, especially freer options like handheld and Steadicam—without fuss. The lenses telecentric design allows equal performance on film and digital cameras. The engraved T-stops on the Hawk V-Lite lenses are constant from infinity to close focus. Similarly, the maximum light transmission is maintained throughout the whole focusing range (contrary to other lenses, which lose some light while focusing).

	28mm	35mm	45mm	55mm	65mm	80mm	110mm	140mm
T-Stop Range	T2.2-T16	T2.2-T16	T2.2-T16	T2.2-T22	T2.2-T16	T2.2-T16	T3.0-T16	T3.5-T22
Close Focus	.8m/2'7"	1m/3'3"	1m/3'3"	1m/3'3"	1m/3'3"	1m/3'3"	1m/3'3"	1m/3'3"
Horizontal Angle of View	82.3°	65.4°	53.3°	47.10°	39.7°	32.5°	23.5°	18.5°
Vertical Angle of View	35°	27.8°	22.7°	20°	16.6°	13.8°	10°	7.9°
Weight	2.1kg/4.6lbs	2.9kg/6.4lbs	1.9kg/4.2lbs	2kg/4.4lbs	2kg/4.4lbs	2.3kg/5lbs	2.6kg/5.7lbs	2.7kg/5.9lbs
Front Diameter	120mm	120mm	104mm	104mm	104mm	104mm	104mm	104mm

 

 

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THE V-LITE ANAMORPHIC SET

There are several variations of the Hawk V-Lite anamorphic primes out there for rent. Some include all nine primes: 28mm, 35mm, 45mm, 55mm, 55 (macro), 65mm, 80mm, 110mm, 140mm. This arrangement includes the 55mm macro, which has an exceptional close focus of .35m (1’2”), compared to its ordinary 55mm counterpart’s CF of 1m (3’3”). While the macro is a specialty use lens, its capabilities are impressive nevertheless. Some Hawk V-Lite sets are streamlined, opting for a smaller, more affordable package of primes that still covers an extensive focal range. Or: some sets find ways to extend the focal range to give even more power to the V-Lites. For example, the V-Lite anamorphic prime set at Bokeh Rentals includes:

• V-Lite 2x Anamorphic Cine Prime 28mm T2.2
• V-Lite 2x Anamorphic Cine Prime 45mm T2.2
• V-Lite 2x Anamorphic Cine Prime 55mm T2.2
• V-Lite 2x Anamorphic Cine Prime 80mm T2.2
• V-Lite 2x Anamorphic Cine Prime 110mm T3.0
• V-Lite 2x Anamorphic Cine Prime 140mm T3.5
• V-Lite 2x Anamorphic Cine Prime 180mm T3.0

 

	Bokeh Rentals' specialty-built 180mm T3.0 V-Lite prime is a unique extension to Hawk's prime package.