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What is an Anamorphic Lens?
A Look Inside the Lens
Whether you're new to filmmaking or a seasoned cinematographer, you may wonder, What is an anamorphic lens, and what does it do? We’re here to break down everything you need to know.

The term “anamorphic” comes from the Greek for “formed again.” The primary purpose of an anamorphic lens is to expand the aspect ratio within a standard film frame, allowing for a wider field of view while preserving image proportions for widescreen viewing.

But the capabilities of an anamorphic lens extend beyond just squeezing images. These lenses also reduce reflections and enhance lens flares, offering cinematographers unique creative possibilities. Now you might ask...
*Be sure to switch to full-screen mode to fully enjoy the cinematic videos captured with the anamorphic lens featured in this article.

How do these features work?

1. Oval Bokeh

iPhones and most DSLR cameras come with spherical lenses that project a circular image onto the camera sensor. In contrast, the anamorphic lens has a unique oval-shaped bokeh that stretches the x-axis, creating a wider horizontal frame for cinematic scenes.

2. Horizontal Lens flares


One of the standout features of an anamorphic lens is its ability to create enhanced lens flares when exposed to vivid light. This lens achieves its distinct flare effect using both positive and negative cylindrical elements, producing elongated flares compared to the round flares of conventional lenses.

3. Cinema Engineered Glass

Designed with iPhone filmmakers in mind, the anamorphic lens incorporates multi-element, multi-coated, and anti-reflective glass. The multi-element structure reduces color distortion, a challenge that single-element lenses can't address on their own. Additionally, the multi-coating and anti-reflective glass enhance durability and help maintain contrast levels.

Multi-element glass

And...Why are they so important?

Ultra-Wide Aspect Ratio
The ultra-wide aspect ratio, created by the oval bokeh effect, enables filmmakers to capture broader, cinematic perspectives. Renowned directors like JJ Abrams and Steven Soderbergh have used this technique to achieve visually striking results with a horizontally stretched look.

When shooting with wide-angle lenses, filmmakers often encounter close-up distortions, but an anamorphic lens maintains the correct aspect ratios, even with wide formats.

However, the resulting squeezed footage requires de-squeezing to appear as normal, undistorted video. This de-squeezing process can be performed using post-production software like Filmic Pro or Blackmagic camera app.

This allows for seamless playback of footage that has already been appropriately adjusted, streamlining the workflow for creators. For guidance on de-squeezing anamorphic footage, view here.
Dramatic Horizontal Lens Flares

The ability to focus and enhance light flares is perhaps the most unique feature of the anamorphic lens. When shooting in low-light or night mode, the lens creates long, vivid light flares from bright sources like headlights, streetlights, or even a dramatic sunrise or sunset.

These elongated flares add a cinematic feel similar to what you’d see in movies. And the best part? It’s all achievable from your iPhone with compatible Anamorphic Lenses tailored for your model.

Cinema Engineered Glass
Cinema-engineered glass is essential whenever complex optical performance is required. Multi-element lenses are crucial when a single lens is insufficient to prevent aberration or wavefront distortion.

With its multi-element and multi-coated glass, the anamorphic optic effectively reduces distortion and enhances durability, while its anti-reflective properties minimize reflections and ensure superior performance.

Wrapping up...

Using the Anamorphic Lens can help any cinematographer record videos with the same cinematic effects seen on the big screen. From ultra-wide angles to horizontal lens flares, this lens attachment transforms your iPhone into a high-powered, versatile movie camera.
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Author's Bio

SANDMARC offers photography gear for mobile creators, including top-tier lenses, filters, and accessories that elevate iPhone photography. Trusted worldwide, our products help users capture stunning visuals in any setting. Our blog provides tips, guides, and inspiration to enhance your creative journey, with advice and industry updates from our passionate team.

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