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Lens for EPIC -S

Patrik Kisucky

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What would be the equivalent lens for EPIC - S, to the fixed lens on the Scarlet? Would RED PRO 18-85mm work well? And would it give me a good versatility between a wide angle shots, and closeups?
 
How do you define equivalent? You're really not going to find an equivalent PL mount or "cinema" lens with that sort of range to cover a S35 sensor, or at least not anything that is practical in a similar way. Lenses like the 18-85, Optimo 4.7X (17-80), Cooke 18-100, etc... are work-horse lenses for 35mm cinema, but they won't reach as far on the long end. Something like the Optimo 12X (24-290) has the reach, but it's also huge and expensive.

The closest you're going to get within practical size and zoom range without breaking the bank (or your back if you need to go handheld) would be some of the zooms from the SLR world, once the Nikon and Canon mounts are available.

The zoom lens on the fixed lens Scarlet is an 8X at about 7.5mm to 60mm, IIRC. Compared to FF35, that is an equivalent to having a zoom that does about 28-224mm. If you related in similar FOV crop terms, that's like an 18-140mm. Something similar to the Canon EFS 18-135mm junk kit lens they ship with some SLR packages.
 
Thank you Jeff, that helps. I'm still debating between Scarlet and Epic S, and trying to budget the Epic S options, with the lens. This may be a silly question, but could I use the rocker to zoom in and out on all of the lenses, that I would attach to Epic S? Even, say, Canon lenses?
 
What would be the equivalent lens for EPIC - S, to the fixed lens on the Scarlet? Would RED PRO 18-85mm work well? And would it give me a good versatility between a wide angle shots, and closeups?
18-200 Nikkor sounds like close enough range- a little wider on the wide and shorter on the tele as well- 11x zoom. Same weight as well(my speculation)
 
Yeah, the Nikon 18-200 would probably be a good bet. I suppose it depends what all you're trying to do.
 
That's not really a proper comparison. The comparison that has been made in regards to the fixed-lens, for the 2/3" Scarlet, and price is to say that a comparable electronic zoom for a 2/3" HD camera would cost around 3X as much as the projected price for the Scarlet fixed brain (including lens). Which is true... Most such electronic broadcast lenses with similar zoom range often cost upwards of $15~$20K.

These SLR zooms lack the internal mechanics, overall build quality and type of control afforded by these much more expensive broadcast lenses. Additionally, they are mass-produced and sell 10's or even 100's of thousands of units annually. A High-end Fujinon or Canon broadcast zoom may sell fewer than 20,000 or even 10,000 units in the entire lifespan of that particular design or model. The specs of the 8x fixed Scarlet lens are pretty impressive any way you look at it. 8X zoom range, internal focus, internal zoom, constant F2.4 (T2.6) aperture through the entire zoom range...

The OP was mostly asking what focal length range would be comparable for the S35 sensor in the Epic and which zoom lens might cover it. Moving away from SLR lenses, the options are cinema style lenses and the price jumps up significantly and you don't have the internal electronics / motors. In most cases you also gain a lot of physical size and weight.
 
That helps a lot Jeff, Thanks. Well, it will be tough not to buy one of these Scarlets:))!
 
I think I will go for a canon adaptor and use my Canon lenses. If I had the money I would buy Red pro 17 - 50 mm. and a Red pro prime 50 mm.
 
I shot Nikon (Still Photography)

That Nikon 18-200mm is equivalent to Scarlet in range only. Its not a very good lens to use and is passed over by the pros for that reason.
Its also a slow lens, RED Scarlet lens I think was hyped at f2.8, the Nikon 18-200mmm f3.5-5.6 which is much slower.

I wouldn't recommend either of the following Nikons (for professional use), but if your looking at the 18-200mm there is the Nikon 18-135mm which is a better lens (But still not pro).
 
That Nikon 18-200mm is equivalent in range only. Its not a very good lens to use and is passed over by the pros for that reason.
Its also a slow lens, RED Scarlet lens I think was hyped at f2.8, the Nikon 18-200mmm f3.5-5.6 which is much slower.

f/2.4
 
I don't think I would rely on any forum posts if I were making purchasing decisions.
1. Rent lenses you think would work for you.
2. Shoot tests according to your needs.
3. Screen the tests in the best environment possible
4. make the purchasing decision based on these tests, your own work track record, project anticipation, etc.
I know, it takes time but this time is well spent , and equals money saved and quick ROI
 
The new af-s 24-120 VR F4 on the hole range could be an option...
But in my own opinion, if you want to use nikon lenses, a wide angle dx zoom (17-55 2.8) + a few fixed (10.5 2.8 , 35 1.4, 50 1.4, 85 1.4 and 105 macro 2.8) as a full kit would be kickass!
 
The only reason for the range of the Fixed is because it's not removable!

With an interchangeable mount body, you will use fixed focal lengths, or small zooms.

At least that's the sensible solution...
 
How about Electronic Zoom ability. I read that RED is working on electronic zoom lenses which would be great, but is there any other lens, that could be operated electronically, with the camera rocker?
 
How about Electronic Zoom ability. I read that RED is working on electronic zoom lenses which would be great, but is there any other lens, that could be operated electronically, with the camera rocker?

Geared cinema zooms with external motors fitted can be used this way. May require external controls too though. Most servo zooms are fitted on 2/3" or smaller video cameras. I don't know of any mass market still camera zooms that would support servo zoom systems. Steve Gibby has mentioned using still zooms that have a single ring that turns for focus and slides in and out for zoom for full one handed manual control. If you really need that kind of run and gun ENG type servo control, the Scarlet fixed is by far the lowest cost option. Jim has hinted Red may have an external motor system for interchangeable lenses at some point, but not likely anytime soon.
 
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