DP Fan Zewei Talks About Angénieux Optimo Primes
In the world of films, the lens is the key to storytelling. We invited emerging cinematographer Fan Zhewei to share his insights and shooting experiences with the Angénieux Optimo Primes through the short film Illuminated Eve of Fireworks.
The short film Illuminated Eve of Fireworks was shot with AngénieuxOptimo Prime series (18mm, 24mm, 32mm, 50mm, 75mm, and 100mm), together with 1/8 black satin and 1/8 pearlescent rear filters.
“Angénieuxlenses are characterized by their distinctive quality from both technical and artistic perspectives. Their uniqueness lies in their high lens quality and reliability, which are crucial factors when selecting the lens,” explains Fan. “The prime lenses exhibit excellent resolution and natural colour transitions. The images become softer when paired with the rear filters, and the out-of-focus areas maintain a natural and artistically pleasing aesthetic.”
In addition to the distinctive out-of-focus performance, Fan praises the lenses add warmth and layered texture to the image. The out-of-focus quality is well-suited for capturing portraits, especially when subjects are set against complex backgrounds. The lenses effectively highlight the character while preserving the ambience of the environment.
For Illuminated Eve of Fireworks, Fan favoured the 32mm as it provides an excellent balance for both medium and close-up shots. In medium shots, the lens beautifully showcased the relationship between characters and their environment in the medium shots; while in close-ups, the lens provided intense visual impact, highlighting the characters’ expressions. The 32mm focal length is highly versatile, capturing the dynamic interplay between the environment and the characters, thereby enhancing the narrative coherence.
Fan was particularly impressed by the practicality of the rear filters. “During the shooting, we can quickly swap filters between lens changes without disrupting the workflow. The rear filters can also effectively resolve the unwanted glare caused by traditional front filters, the effect can be blended into the image naturally while preserving the original texture without interference,”
The compact size of the Optimo primes enhances creative possibilities, enabling Fan to explore various camera positions throughout the shoot.
“Angenieux Optimo Primes delivers remarkably balanced image and avoids excessive sharpness, while maintaining a warm texture in the transition from character to environment. Combined with the IOP (Integrated Optical Palette) elements, the lenses foster creativity and flexibility to meet a wide range of project requirements,” concluded Fan.
