Broad Compatibility. The ARRI 18mm T1.8 Signature Prime covers a wide range of sensor sizes and cameras from any manufacturer, from Super 35 to large format. This lens is compatible with the ARRI LDS-2 lens data system, which streamlines setup, post-production, and VFX work. It’s also backwards-compatible with LDS-1 and communicates with Cooke’s /i Technology.

Fast Wide-Angle Prime. This 18mm prime softens the large-format look, giving you natural skin tones and pleasing, rounded bokeh. You also get smooth focus fall-off for great subject/background isolation. The fast T1.8 maximum aperture lets you achieve extremely shallow depth of field.

Cine Build. Compared to other cine lenses, the ARRI 18mm is relatively compact and lightweight. It has a durable magnesium barrel with aluminum gear rings and a focus scale in feet, there’s a 13.8-inch minimum focusing distance, and the lens is water-resistant. Each of its elements has an anti-reflective coating, which helps to minimize barrel flare.

Lens Support Recommended. The 18mm is still relatively large at 4.4 lbs. and 7 inches long, so you might want to rent a Wooden Camera 15mm Universal Lens Support to help support the lens’s weight when using a shoulder mount (not included) or other 15mm rail system.