You Wish You Could Own This Lens

Capturing the perfect shot often requires a delicate balance between focal length, image quality, and portability. Finding a lens that excels in all three areas can feel like searching for a mythical creature. That's why lenses like these make us drool.

Coming to you from CineD, this insightful video features a conversation with Bob Poole, a renowned wildlife cinematographer, and Victor Ha, a representative from Fujifilm. Poole details his experience using the Duvo 25-1000mm lens during a challenging shoot in Kenya, capturing the majesty of elephants in their natural habitat. His firsthand account offers invaluable insights into the lens' capabilities and its impact on wildlife filmmaking. The discussion highlights the significance of having a versatile lens that can handle both wide and telephoto shots, especially when working with unpredictable subjects like elephants.

Poole emphasizes the unique benefits of the Duvo 25-1000mm lens, particularly its ability to maintain a shallow depth of field while producing a stunningly smooth and aesthetically pleasing background blur. This characteristic allows the viewer's attention to be drawn directly to the subject, even amidst the complexities of a natural environment. Additionally, Poole praises the lens' exceptional image stabilization, which proved crucial in capturing sharp footage despite the bumpy off-road conditions and inherent movement within the filming vehicle. 

Beyond the technical specifications, the video delves into the logistical challenges and creative solutions involved in using such a substantial lens in a demanding environment. Poole's ingenuity in adapting his vehicle and equipment to accommodate the Duvo 25-1000mm demonstrates the dedication and resourcefulness required for successful wildlife filmmaking. The conversation also touches upon the importance of having backup cameras, such as the Fujifilm GFX100S, for capturing additional angles and time-lapses, further showcasing the comprehensive approach needed for a project of this scale.

The Fujinon Duvo 25-1000mm lens undoubtedly presents challenges in terms of its size and weight, as it weighs over 60 lbs. And at $265,000, it's not a lens any of us will be picking up anytime soon. However, for productions seeking unparalleled versatility, image quality, and stabilization, it stands as a groundbreaking tool. Check out the video above for the full rundown.

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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3 Comments

Image reminded me of proper video about TV lenses https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RkTaMyatsTo

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One of my favorites!

A bit out of the budget but I'll see if my wife can come out of retirement and get a job so I can buy the big toy. Do I hear laughter in the background?
Seriously, one like that would have certain advantages but would need to warrant the expenditure. New to photography but I find this site to be most helpful.