How to Shoot with Anamorphic Lenses and Adapters
by Dan Wagner
All Photos © Dan Wagner 2023
Invented in 1926 by Henri Chrétien, anamorphic lenses are designed to produce wider images than conventional lenses. During shooting images are compressed for later expansion with editing software. Therefore, image widths from a 2x lens would be multiplied by 2, images from a 1.5x lens multiplied by 1.5, and so on.
The vintage Vidoscope anamorphic lens attachment pictured above was made for a 16mm movie camera. However, with the aid of an adapter clamp, this attachment was mounted to a Nikon 60mm lens and used to create the images below. The downside of using a lens attachment is that wider lenses can produce vignettes that require cropping. But on the plus side, an attachment is less expensive than a dedicated lens.
Level images require perpendicular alignment of the lens attachment and adapter clamp. This is accomplished through trial and error adjustments, and should be verified prior to shooting. Always make sure to avoid contact between the front element of your camera lens and the anamorphic lens attachment.
Tips for Using Anamorphic Lens Attachments:
Research lens attachment compatibility prior to purchase
Try to find a shorter and lighter lens attachment
When needed, brass step rings are easier to remove
Buy a filter wrench to assist with stuck step rings
Exercise focus rings to improve fluidity
Zone focus the lens attachment before focusing lens
Attach close-up filters with a front adapter clamp
In addition to wide cinematic imagery, photographers prize anamorphic lenses for their colorful elongated flaring, and crisp sharpness.
I hope this information will make your anamorphic lens adventures easier and more successful. Thanks for visiting The Cranky Camera!