I've had the pleasure of working with the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 lens, and I'm impressed. The 11-bladed diaphragm creates a smooth, rounded bokeh that adds depth to my footage. The precise T-stop adjustment lets me dial in the exact effect I want. The unified focus ring design makes quick adjustments a breeze. Plus, the durable aluminum body can withstand the demands of frequent use. While it's not perfect – it struggles with consistent bokeh in certain conditions – the benefits far outweigh the limitations. If you're looking for a cinematic powerhouse on a budget, this lens is definitely worth exploring further.
Key Takeaways
- The Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 Lens features an 11-bladed diaphragm for smooth, rounded bokeh and precise T-stop adjustment for desired effects.
- The lens has a unified focus, aperture, and T-stop scale for convenient and smooth adjustments, enhancing the shooting experience.
- The durable aluminum body is built for frequent use, making it ideal for professionals with demanding schedules, and is manageable in weight and compact in dimensions.
- Although it struggles with consistent bokeh under certain conditions, the lens provides high-quality footage and is suitable for narrative, commercial, and industrial applications.
- The lens offers great value for its price, being affordable compared to other cine lenses, and is highly recommended for professional use, especially for filmmakers on a budget.
1 Bladed Diaphragm Performance
Here's my take on the bladed diaphragm performance of the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 lens.
I've been impressed with how the 11-bladed diaphragm has helped to create a smooth, rounded bokeh that adds depth to my shots.
Now, let's break down what I liked about this feature and where it could be improved.
What We Liked
The 11-bladed diaphragm of the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 lens impresses with its ability to produce a stunning, rounded bokeh that adds depth and character to our footage.
I was pleased to find that the lens's aperture control allows for a smooth, precise adjustment of the T-stop, making it easy to achieve the desired effect.
The unified focus, aperture gear, and T-stop scale make it convenient to operate the lens, especially when working with a team.
I also appreciate the lens's durability, thanks to its aluminum body, which can withstand the rigors of frequent use.
What Can Be Improved
My only gripe with the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 lens is that its 11-bladed diaphragm sometimes struggles to maintain a consistent, rounded bokeh when shooting at certain T-stops or with specific lighting setups.
While the lens generally excels in this area, I've noticed that it can occasionally produce a slightly more angular or 'busy' bokeh, especially when shooting wide open or with strong backlight.
This isn't a deal-breaker by any means, but it's worth noting for cinematographers who prioritize a smooth, creamy bokeh.
Quick Verdict
After putting the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 through its paces, I'm left impressed with its exceptional performance, impressive build quality, and unbeatable value proposition.
As a cinematographer, I appreciate the lens's ability to deliver stunning images with a cinematic flair. The 11-bladed diaphragm and T-stop scale make it a joy to work with, and the aluminum body feels solid and durable.
While it may not be perfect, the minor quirks are easily overlooked considering the price point. For narrative productions, commercial use, and industrial applications, I highly recommend the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5.
It's a game-changer for indie filmmakers and professionals alike, offering a level of quality that's hard to find at this price.
Unified Focus Ring Design
I'm particularly fond of the Xeen 35mm T1.5's unified focus ring design, which makes it easy to operate and integrates seamlessly with my shooting style.
The unified design combines focus, aperture, and T-stop scales into one convenient ring, allowing me to quickly adjust settings without having to switch between different controls. This design also enables smooth, precise adjustments, which is crucial for capturing high-quality footage.
Additionally, the 11-bladed diaphragm guarantees a smooth, rounded bokeh and a natural-looking aperture. Overall, the unified focus ring design is a thoughtful touch that enhances the overall shooting experience and makes the Xeen 35mm T1.5 a joy to work with.
Aluminum Body Build Quality
The Xeen 35mm T1.5's aluminum body exudes a sense of ruggedness and durability, inspiring confidence that it can withstand the rigors of repeated use on set.
I've had my fair share of handling this lens, and I can attest that it feels solid and well-built.
The aluminum construction is a significant factor in its durability, making it an excellent choice for professionals who need a reliable lens that can keep up with their demanding schedules.
The weight of the lens, at 2.7 pounds, is substantial but manageable, and the compact dimensions make it easy to transport.
Lens Hood and Cap Included
As I unboxed the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 lens, I was pleased to find that it comes with a lens hood and cap, which are vital accessories for any cinematographer.
The lens hood helps to reduce lens flare and ghosting, while the cap protects the lens from scratches and damage when not in use.
I appreciate that Rokinon includes these essential components, making it easier for me to get started with my shoot right away.
Specifications
Rokinon packs the Xeen 35mm T1.5 lens with a lens hood and cap, ensuring you're ready to shoot right out of the box. But what really caught my attention was the impressive list of specifications that make this lens a powerhouse for cinematic productions.
- Aluminum body for durability and a unified focus, aperture gear, and T-stop scale for seamless operation
- 11 bladed diaphragm for stunning bokeh and a front diameter of 114mm for easy mounting of accessories
- Compatible with full frame cameras and available in multiple mounts, including Canon EF, Nikon, Sony FE, Micro Four Thirds, and PL
- Weighing 2.7 pounds and measuring 4.5 x 4.5 x 6.25 inches, this lens is built for professionals who demand the best.
Documentation and User Guide
Unboxing the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 lens, I'm pleased to find a thorough user guide and a sturdy lens hood, both of which are included to get me started on my cinematic journey.
The user guide is detailed, covering everything from lens maintenance to troubleshooting common issues. It's clear that Rokinon has put effort into creating a helpful resource for their customers.
The lens hood, made of high-quality plastic, fits securely onto the lens and provides adequate protection from stray light. I appreciate the attention to detail in including these essentials, making it easy for me to get started with my lens right out of the box.
Features – What We Found
During our hands-on evaluation, we were impressed by the robust aluminum body that exudes durability and a unified focus, aperture gear, and T-stop scale design that streamline the shooting experience.
The 11-bladed diaphragm guarantees a smooth, rounded bokeh, while the 114mm front diameter allows for convenient filter attachment.
We appreciated the lens's compatibility with full-frame cameras and its availability in various mounts, including Canon EF, Nikon, Sony FE, Micro Four Thirds, and PL.
With a compact size of 4.5 x 4.5 x 6.25 inches and a weight of 2.7 pounds, this lens is perfect for on-the-go shoots.
Industrial Applications Praised Highly
I've had the opportunity to use the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 in various industrial settings, and its performance has consistently impressed me.
The lens's durability and reliability make it an ideal choice for demanding industrial applications. I've used it to capture high-quality footage in warehouses, factories, and construction sites, and it has delivered exceptional results every time.
The lens's wide aperture and 11-bladed diaphragm produce a beautiful bokeh, adding a professional touch to my footage. I've also appreciated the lens's compact size and lightweight design, which make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Rating
With an impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18 customer reviews, the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 lens has earned a stellar reputation among cinematographers and filmmakers. I'm not surprised, given its exceptional build quality, outstanding optics, and remarkable performance.
The lens's affordability compared to other professional cine lenses is a major plus, making it an attractive option for narrative productions, commercial use, and industrial applications. As I explore further into the reviews, I notice a common theme – users rave about the lens's characteristics, bokeh, and flare.
The few criticisms are minor, and overall, the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 lens has won over the hearts of many professionals in the film industry.
Concluding Thoughts
Overall, the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 lens has proven itself to be a reliable and high-quality addition to any filmmaker's arsenal, offering exceptional value for its price. Throughout my experience with this lens, I've been impressed by its build quality, optics, and performance.
The affordability compared to other professional cine lenses is a significant advantage, making it an attractive option for narrative productions, commercial use, and industrial applications. While it may have some limitations, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
I highly recommend the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 lens to anyone looking to elevate their cinematic productions without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rokinon Xeen 35MM T1.5 Compatible With My Camera Brand?
"I've got the same question Before buying, I checked – this lens is compatible with Canon EF, Nikon, Sony FE, Micro Four Thirds, and PL mounts, so it should work with your camera brand."
Can I Purchase a Warranty for This Lens?
"I'd bet my life savings on the durability of this lens I can get a warranty for the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5, which is a huge relief, considering the investment I'm making in my cinema setup."
How Do I Report a Lower Price for This Product?
'I can report a lower price for this product by submitting an online form or filling out an offline form for physical stores; I'll follow the provided instructions to guarantee a smooth process.'
Is the Lens Mount Interchangeable Between Canon and Nikon?
Like a puzzle piece, I fit together the details – no, the lens mount is not interchangeable between Canon and Nikon; you'll need a dedicated mount for each camera system, so plan your workflow accordingly.
What Is the Repair Cost for the Back Focus Issue?
'I had to get my Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 fixed for a back focus issue before a shoot, and the repair cost was reasonable, around a few hundred dollars, worth it to guarantee a smooth production.'
Conclusion
To sum up, the Rokinon Xeen 35mm T1.5 Pro Cinema Lens has won me over with its incredible performance and value.
This lens is a cinematic dream come true, delivering stunning bokeh and breathtaking low-light results.
Its robust build and intuitive design make it a joy to work with.
If you're a cinematographer on a budget, this lens is a 'hidden gem' that will elevate your narrative productions to the next level.
