The newest IRIX 30mm f/1.4 Dragonfly Lens for Pentax K is a product based on the 30mm Cine model, and therefore intended for the much more demanding film industry market. The entire optical structure of the lens is identical in both versions – the main emphasis here is on the vividness of the image. Of course, the photographic version has a completely different housing, while retaining the optical properties of the cine version.
The Irix 30mm f/1.4 features a modern optical design that includes 3 ultra-low dispersion glass elements, 2 high reflectance glass elements and one aspherical lens. There are a total of 13 elements in 9 groups that provide sharp details, vivid colors and ultra-low distortion – 0.95%. However, what deserves special attention is the smoothness and “cine look” of the image it offers. The lens is designed to work with 35mm full frame sensors. It is worth emphasising the use of a new, 11-blade design aperture with rounded edges, which ensures a pleasant and very vivid background blur. It works in the range of f/1.4 to f/16.
Irix customers often use their lenses in extremely difficult conditions. Therefore, the construction of the Irix 30mm f/1.4 lens had to meet their needs. Only the best materials were used. The guarantee of operation in all conditions is ensured by a system of seals located in key places of the lens, and rear focusing – thanks to which the lens does not change its dimensions while focusing. These properties allow not only to work in difficult conditions, but also guarantee the cleanliness of the mirror chamber and the sensor of the camera you are using.
The Irix 30mm f/1.4 lens has a module that allows you to control the lens iris directly from the camera, thanks to which popular semi-automatic modes (PASM) and data recording in EXIF format are available. The use of electronics also enables the lens to be equipped with a focus confirmation system – the camera will announce the correct focus setting (either in the form of an icon in the viewfinder, or as a sound) every time you set the focus correctly – it’s easy and convenient!
