DZOFILM Catta Ace 70-135mm T2.9 Cine Lens User Manual

1. Introduction

The DZOFILM Catta Ace 70-135mm T2.9 Cine Lens is a high-performance full-frame zoom lens designed for professional cinematography. It offers a versatile focal length range, consistent T2.9 aperture, and a parfocal optical design, ensuring stable focus throughout the zoom range. This lens is compatible with both PL and Canon EF mounts, providing flexibility for various camera systems. Its robust metal construction ensures durability in demanding shooting environments.

Key features include:

• Full-frame sensor coverage (43.5mm image circle).
• Parfocal design for consistent focus during zooming.
• 16-blade iris for smooth, round bokeh.
• 240-degree focus rotation for precise manual control.
• Authentic color reproduction and natural skin tones.

2. Setup

2.1 Unpacking the Lens

Carefully remove the lens and its accessories from the protective case. Inspect all components for any signs of damage. The package typically includes the lens, front and rear caps, and shims for mount adjustment.

Image: The DZOFILM Catta Ace 70-135mm T2.9 Cine Lens securely stored in its protective hard case.

Image: The lens and its included accessories, such as shims and mounting screws, organized within the protective case.

2.2 Attaching the Lens to Your Camera

The Catta Ace lens supports both PL and Canon EF mounts. Ensure your camera body has the correct mount type or an appropriate adapter.

1. Remove the rear lens cap and the camera body cap.
2. Align the red dot (or other alignment mark) on the lens mount with the corresponding mark on your camera body.
3. Gently insert the lens into the camera mount.
4. Rotate the lens clockwise (for PL mount) or until it clicks into place (for EF mount). Do not force the lens.
5. Ensure the lens is securely locked to prevent accidental detachment.

Image: A close-up view of the rear of the lens, highlighting the robust mount mechanism.

3. Operating the Lens

3.1 Focus Control

The Catta Ace lens features a 240-degree focus rotation, allowing for precise and smooth manual focus pulls. The focus ring is geared for compatibility with follow focus systems.

• Rotate the focus ring to adjust the focus distance.
• The focus distance markings are clearly visible on the lens barrel.
• For critical focus, use your camera's focus assist features (e.g., focus peaking, magnification).

3.2 Zoom Control

This lens offers a 70-135mm zoom range. Its parfocal design ensures that focus remains constant as you zoom in or out, eliminating the need to refocus after changing focal length.

• Rotate the zoom ring to change the focal length.
• The zoom markings (70mm, 80mm, 90mm, 100mm, 110mm, 120mm, 135mm) are clearly indicated.
• The parfocal nature makes it ideal for dynamic shots where focal length changes are required without losing sharpness.

Image: The DZOFILM Catta Ace 70-135mm T2.9 Cine Lens, showcasing its focus, zoom, and aperture rings with clear markings.

3.3 Aperture Control

The lens features a T2.9 to T22 aperture range with a 16-blade iris, providing smooth and aesthetically pleasing bokeh.

• Rotate the aperture ring to adjust the T-stop.
• The T-stop markings (T2.9, T4, T5.6, T8, T11, T16, T22) are clearly visible.
• A wider aperture (lower T-number) allows more light and creates shallower depth of field.
• A narrower aperture (higher T-number) allows less light and creates greater depth of field.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning the Lens

Proper cleaning helps maintain optical performance and extends the life of your lens.

• Dust Removal: Use a blower brush to remove loose dust and particles from the lens surfaces. Avoid wiping dry lens elements, as this can cause scratches.
• Smudges and Fingerprints: For smudges or fingerprints, use a clean, soft microfiber lens cloth and a small amount of lens cleaning solution. Apply the solution to the cloth, not directly to the lens. Wipe gently in a circular motion from the center outwards.
• Lens Body: Wipe the lens body with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents.

4.2 Storage

When not in use, store the lens in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use the provided lens caps to protect the front and rear elements. For long-term storage, keep the lens in its protective case.

4.3 Handling Precautions

• Avoid dropping or subjecting the lens to strong impacts.
• Do not expose the lens to water or excessive humidity.
• Keep the lens away from strong magnetic fields.
• Always hold the lens by its barrel, not by the focus, zoom, or aperture rings when mounting or dismounting.

5. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your DZOFILM Catta Ace lens.

• Issue: Image is blurry or out of focus.
  Solution: Ensure the focus ring is correctly adjusted. Check your camera's focus assist features. Verify that the lens is securely mounted to the camera body. If using an adapter, ensure it is correctly installed and compatible.
• Issue: Zooming causes focus shift.
  Solution: The Catta Ace lens features a parfocal design. If you experience focus shift during zooming, ensure the lens is properly calibrated. Contact DZOFILM support if the issue persists, as it may indicate a need for service.
• Issue: Aperture ring is stiff or not responding.
  Solution: Check for any obstructions around the aperture ring. Ensure no debris has entered the mechanism. Do not force the ring. If the issue continues, contact customer support.
• Issue: Lens is not recognized by the camera.
  Solution: Ensure the lens is fully seated and locked onto the camera mount. Clean the electronic contacts on both the lens and camera (if applicable for EF mount). Restart the camera.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

7.1 Manufacturer's Warranty

DZOFILM products are covered by a limited manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. The specific terms and duration of the warranty may vary by region and product. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official DZOFILM website for detailed warranty information.

7.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, service, or warranty claims, please contact DZOFILM customer support. You can typically find contact information on the official DZOFILM website or through your authorized dealer. When contacting support, please have your product model number (Catta Zoom) and purchase information readily available.