Sirui SIRUI 20mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens

SIRUI 20mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens for Sony E-Mount Cameras - User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper use and maintenance of your SIRUI 20mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens for Sony E-Mount cameras. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the lens to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This lens is designed to deliver a cinematic widescreen aspect ratio and unique visual characteristics for video production.

2. Product Features

  • 1.33X Immersive Cinematic View: Achieves a 2.35:1 widescreen ratio in 16:9 mode without cropping, providing a distinct cinematic look.
  • Selectable Manual and Autofocus: Features a precision STM stepping motor for smooth, accurate, and quiet autofocus, including eye-tracking capabilities. An AF/MF switch and autofocus lock (E/Z/L Mount) offer versatile control.
  • Covers Super 35: The 37mm image circle is optimized for APS-C or Super 35 sensors, ensuring excellent coverage and image clarity.
  • T1.8 Ultra-Fast Aperture: Allows more light for clearer night scenes, sharper subject focus, and soft bokeh, enhancing low-light performance and depth of field control.
  • 20mm Broaden Perspective: A wide-angle lens with a horizontal field of view equivalent to a 22mm full-frame lens, suitable for landscapes, starry skies, and indoor spaces.
  • Compact & Lightweight: Weighing approximately 480g (1.06lb), it is ideal for handheld, gimbal, and run-and-gun shooting.

3. Setup

3.1 Attaching the Lens

To attach the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens to your Sony E-Mount camera:

  1. Ensure your camera is turned off.
  2. Align the white dot on the lens barrel with the white dot on your camera's lens mount.
  3. Rotate the lens clockwise until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.

Note: For full-frame cameras, switch to APS-C/S35 mode to avoid vignetting. Image quality may be compromised in crop mode if not adjusted.

SIRUI 20mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens mounted on a camera body

Image: The SIRUI 20mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens attached to a camera body, ready for use.

3.2 Initial Settings

Before shooting, familiarize yourself with the lens controls:

  • AF/MF Switch: Located on the lens barrel, this switch allows you to toggle between autofocus (AF) and manual focus (MF) modes.
  • Aperture Ring Click Switch: The 'CLICK ON/OFF' switch on the aperture ring allows you to enable or disable click stops for smooth, stepless aperture adjustments during video recording.
  • AFL Button: This button can be customized for autofocus lock or other functions depending on your camera model.
Close-up of the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens showing the AF/MF switch, aperture ring click switch, and AFL button

Image: Detailed view of the user-oriented operation controls on the lens, including the AF/MF switch, aperture click switch, and AFL button.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Focusing

The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus. Use the AF/MF switch on the lens barrel to select your preferred mode.

  • Autofocus (AF): In AF mode, the lens utilizes its STM stepping motor for fast and precise focusing. This mode is ideal for dynamic shooting scenarios and features eye-tracking capabilities with compatible cameras.
  • Manual Focus (MF): For precise control over focus, switch to MF mode and rotate the focus ring. The lens offers a 360° degree of focus throw for fine adjustments.

Video: Demonstration of the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens's autofocus capabilities, showcasing its speed and accuracy in various shooting conditions.

4.2 Aperture Control

The T1.8 fast aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and creative depth of field. Adjust the aperture ring to control the amount of light entering the lens and the depth of field. Use the 'CLICK ON/OFF' switch to enable or disable click stops for smooth aperture transitions during video recording.

Image showing the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 lens with a wide aperture, demonstrating exceptional low-light performance and bokeh

Image: The SIRUI 20mm T1.8 lens showcasing its exceptional low-light performance and ability to produce soft, dreamy bokeh at its fast T1.8 aperture.

4.3 Anamorphic Characteristics

The 1.33X squeeze factor of this anamorphic lens creates a distinctive widescreen look. When de-squeezed in post-production, it produces a 2.35:1 aspect ratio from a 16:9 sensor. This lens also offers two flare options: blue flare for a classic cinematic look and neutral flare for a more subtle effect.

Comparison of blue and neutral anamorphic flares produced by the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 lens

Image: A visual comparison demonstrating the distinct characteristics of blue and neutral anamorphic flares, allowing users to choose their preferred visual style.

Video: A showcase of cinematic footage captured with the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens, highlighting its widescreen aspect ratio and unique visual effects.

5. Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance will extend the life and performance of your lens:

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth and lens cleaning solution to clean the glass elements. Avoid touching the glass with your fingers. Use a blower brush to remove dust before wiping.
  • Storage: Store the lens in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use the provided lens caps to protect the front and rear elements.
  • Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the lens to harsh impacts. When mounting or unmounting, hold the lens firmly by the barrel, not the focus or aperture rings.
  • Water Resistance: This lens is not water resistant. Avoid exposure to rain, splashes, or high humidity.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1 Vignetting on Full-Frame Cameras

When used on full-frame cameras, a certain amount of vignetting may occur. To address this:

  • Switch your camera to APS-C/S35 crop mode.
  • Vignetting can often be reduced or eliminated during post-editing.

6.2 Anamorphic Distortion

Anamorphic lenses inherently present a certain pincushion distortion, which is distinct from spherical lenses. This characteristic contributes to the unique aesthetic of anamorphic footage.

  • Position the camera carefully to minimize unwanted distortion.
  • Utilize post-production techniques to further reduce or manage distortion as needed.
Image demonstrating the unique aesthetic and distortion characteristics of anamorphic lenses

Image: An example illustrating the unique aesthetic and inherent distortion characteristics of anamorphic lenses, which can be used creatively or managed in post-production.

7. Specifications

FeatureDescription
Model NameSIRUI 20mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens
BrandSirui
Focal Length20mm (Prime Lens)
Lens TypeWide Angle, Anamorphic
Compatible MountingsSony E
Maximum ApertureT1.8 (f/1.8)
Minimum ApertureT22 (f/22)
Focus TypeAuto/Manual
Image StabilizationNo image stabilization
Real Angle Of View22 Degrees
Zoom Ratio1:1
Minimum Focus Distance0.4m (1.31ft)
Filter ThreadM77 x P0.75
Lens Structure16 Elements in 12 Groups (Including 5 Cylindrical Lenses & 1 Aspherical Lens)
Max DiameterΦ86.1mm / 3.4"
Lens Format CoverageS35/APS-C
Aperture Blade11
Weight480g (1.06lb)
ColorBlue Flare
Water Resistance LevelNot Water Resistant
Detailed specification table for the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens

Image: A comprehensive table outlining the technical specifications of the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens.

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official SIRUI website or contact your local distributor. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.