Using ARRI cinema lenses for still photography is a creative choice. While there is no single “best” option, specific lens lines are prized for their unique optical qualities that elevate portraiture.
Key Features and Benefits for Portrait Photography
1. The Signature Look and “Organic” Rendition
ARRI’s core design philosophy prioritizes a look that is technically precise yet retains a pleasing, filmic character. Lenses like the Signature Primes are not engineered for a sterile, clinically sharp image. Instead, they produce a high-resolution image with a gentle, natural softness and a smooth focus fall-off. This characteristic is highly desirable for portraiture, as it is incredibly flattering to skin tones and textures, avoiding the harsh, digital-looking sharpness of some modern lenses.
2. Exquisite Bokeh and Depth
The rendering of out-of-focus areas, known as bokeh, is a critical element in portraiture. ARRI lenses are renowned for their creamy, smooth bokeh, which helps to beautifully isolate the subject from the background. The Signature Primes, for example, were consciously designed by looking at faces rather than test charts, with a particular focus on how out-of-focus highlights are rendered. This results in pleasing, round bokeh with smooth edges that don’t distract from the subject.
3. Minimal Aberrations and Distortion
While features like minimal focus breathing are primarily for motion pictures, their absence is a benefit to still photographers as well. An ARRI lens will not exhibit noticeable distortion, chromatic aberration, or other optical flaws that would require correction in post-production. The image is clean and consistent across the frame, allowing the photographer to focus on composition and lighting without worrying about technical imperfections.
4. Superior Mechanical and Build Quality
ARRI lenses are built to endure the demanding environment of a film set. This robust construction, with magnesium and aluminum components, translates into unparalleled reliability and a tactile, precise feel. The long, smooth focus throw is designed for a focus puller’s precise adjustments, but it is equally beneficial for a photographer who wants to manually dial in critical focus with a high degree of accuracy and repeatability in a studio setting.
Questions & Answers
Q: Which specific ARRI lens model is considered “best” for portraits?
A: The most celebrated ARRI lens series for portraiture is the Signature Primes. Within that series, a popular focal length for portraits would be the 75mm or 100mm. The 75mm offers a classic, flattering compression, while the 100mm provides a slightly tighter field of view. However, a 50mm or 85mm from a series like the Master Primes or Ensō Primes would also be excellent choices.
Q: Can you use an ARRI lens on a still photography camera?
A: Yes, in most cases. ARRI lenses use the LPL or PL mount. To use them on a camera like a Canon, Sony, or RED, you would need a compatible lens mount adapter. This setup is primarily for manual focus, as the lenses do not have electronic contacts for autofocus.
Q: What is the main drawback of using an ARRI lens for still photography?
A: The primary drawback is the cost, which is prohibitively high for most photographers. The second major limitation is the lack of autofocus and often heavy weight, as these lenses are designed to be operated with a dedicated crew member (a focus puller) and built for durability on a motion picture set.
Conclusion
For a photographer seeking a unique cinematic aesthetic, an ARRI lens can be an unparalleled tool for portraiture. There is no single “best” lens, as the choice depends on the desired focal length and aesthetic. However, the ARRI Signature Primes and the newer Ensō Primes stand out for their ability to render natural skin tones, produce exquisite bokeh, and deliver a “filmic” look that transcends mere technical perfection. The decision to use these lenses is a creative one, prioritizing a specific artistic vision over the convenience and affordability of conventional still photography lenses.
