Modern Zoom

Angénieux

Angénieux Optimo 45-120mm

45 – 120mm zoom T2.8 PL

The telephoto end of the Optimo Lightweight trio.

The 45-120mm delivers prime-rivalling optical quality (superb contrast, matched colour, zero ramping) in a telephoto range covering medium close-ups to compressed long shots. At 1.95kg and 203mm, it’s barely heavier than the wide and mid-range Optimos, sharing their centre of gravity for instant Steadicam swaps. The 320° focus ring with 50+ witness marks gives ACs the precision they need at longer focal lengths.

Character profile

How this lens renders.

Soft highlights. Telephoto. Forgiving.

Five axes plotting how this set behaves wide-open vs a neutral modern reference. Larger area = more pronounced trait.

Talking points

Why DPs pick this set

  1. Completes the Optimo Lightweight trio: 15–120mm coverage at T2.6–T2.8 in under 6kg total

  2. Compatible with Optimo 1.4× and 2× extenders: extends to 168mm or 240mm when needed

  3. 320° focus throw with 50+ marks: critical precision at telephoto distances

Technical

Full specifications

Focal
45–120mm T2.8 (f/2.6)
Zoom Ratio
2.7×
Close Focus
3'1" (0.94m)
Coverage
Super 35.
Weight
1.95kg (4.3 lbs)
Length
203mm
Front ⌀
114mm
Mount
PL (interchangeable to Panavision, EF)
Focus
320° rotation, 50+ witness marks, 0.8 MOD gears

Heritage

  1. Origin

    The telephoto member of the Optimo Lightweight family from Angénieux. Shares the matched centre of gravity, 114mm front diameter, and barrel profile of the 15-40mm and 28-76mm. Together the three form one of cinema’s most-used zoom sets: the complete Optimo Lightweight trio covering 15–120mm at T2.6–T2.8. Used on countless features, television series, and documentaries where speed, portability, and Angénieux optical quality are non-negotiable. Temperature compensated from −20°C to +45°C.