NiSi 65 PRIME 16mm T2.9 Large Format Cinema Lens (PL Mount)

Overview

The NiSi 65 PRIME 16mm T2.9 Large Format Cinema Lens (PL Mount) is a large-format cinema prime lens built for cinematographers who need expansive coverage, precise optical performance, and dependable handling for high-end digital cinema production. Designed for modern large-format cameras including the ARRI ALEXA 65/265 and FUJIFILM GFX ETERNA 55, it delivers an ultra-wide perspective with strong sharpness, controlled aberrations, and broad image circle coverage suited to demanding professional workflows.

As the first lens in the NiSi 65 PRIME series, this 16mm prime combines a bright T2.9 aperture, close 25 cm minimum focus distance, and robust PL-mount cinema construction in a compact and relatively lightweight body for its class. With matched physical design characteristics intended for efficient lens swaps, manual focus operation, and luminescent markings for low-light usability, it is well suited to narrative, commercial, documentary, and specialty large-format productions.

Core Features

• This 16mm large-format cinema prime is designed for PL-mount camera systems and covers an image circle close to 65 mm in diameter for use with demanding large-format sensors.
• Its T2.9 to T22 aperture range supports low-light work while also providing creative control over exposure and depth of field.
• The optical design uses 16 elements in 12 groups, including 3 aspherical elements, to maintain high resolution and strong aberration control across the frame.
• This lens is engineered to suppress chromatic aberration and minimize barrel and pincushion distortion, making it well suited to structured environments and architectural cinematography.
• A close focus distance of 25 cm enables dramatic near-subject compositions and expands creative options for wide-angle storytelling.
• Manual focus operation with a 300° focus rotation angle allows precise focus control for cinematic production workflows.
• Industry-standard 0.8 MOD / 32 Pitch gearing supports compatibility with follow-focus systems and lens motors used on professional sets.
• A 10-blade diaphragm contributes to smooth out-of-focus rendering across the aperture range.
• Luminescent markings on the focus and aperture rings improve visibility and operating efficiency in low-light shooting conditions.
• Its compact 95 mm front diameter, 78.53 mm length, and 846 g weight make it more manageable for handheld, gimbal, and drone-based large-format setups.

Large-Format Coverage

Built to cover an image circle close to 65 mm, this lens is intended for large-format digital cinema cameras that require more than conventional full-frame coverage. It enables sweeping ultra-wide compositions with strong edge-to-edge image performance across high-end sensor formats.

Cinema-Ready Operation

The PL mount, long focus throw, standard cinema gearing, and clear low-light markings make this lens easy to integrate into professional on-set workflows. Its handling is tailored to directors of photography and camera assistants who need repeatable, precise manual control.

Part of a Matched Lens Family

As part of the NiSi 65 PRIME series, the lens is designed to share a common visual and physical philosophy with the wider lineup. Matching dimensions, gear placement, and color rendition help streamline lens changes while maintaining consistency across a production.