Crafted Legacy: Exploring the WPO TS70 & HS Series Cine Lenses

In the evolving landscape of digital cinematography, where sensor sizes expand and resolutions climb, the demand for lenses that marry technical prowess with artistic nuance has never been greater. Enter the WPO TS70 and HS Series lenses by Whitepoint Optics—a Finnish company that has ingeniously repurposed legendary Hasselblad medium format glass to meet the exacting standards of modern filmmakers.

Hasselblad lenses have long been revered in the world of photography, capturing iconic moments—including the historic images from NASA's Apollo missions. Whitepoint Optics harnesses this rich heritage, rehousing vintage Hasselblad V-series glass into robust cine lens bodies. This fusion offers cinematographers the ability to achieve a distinctive visual aesthetic characterized by sharpness, smooth focus transitions, and a unique bokeh, all while accommodating contemporary large-format sensors.

Technicality Meets Artistic Vision

The TS70 series boasts an impressive 82mm image circle, ensuring coverage for Full Frame, RED Vista Vision, and ARRI Alexa 65 sensors. Each lens is equipped with a 14-blade circular iris, delivering a consistently round aperture across all stops, which contributes to its signature bokeh. The optional Tilt-Swing mechanism allows for up to 9 degrees of movement without vignetting or distortion, providing filmmakers with creative control over focus planes and perspective.

For those requiring a more compact solution, the HS series offers a 48mm image circle, maintaining the optical excellence of its larger counterpart. Both series support PL, LPL, E, and EF mounts, ensuring versatility across various camera systems.

Craftsmanship Rooted in Experience

Founded by lens engineer Timo Ala-Talkkari and colorist Jussi Myllyniemi, Whitepoint Optics emerged from a shared passion for creating lenses that serve as tools for storytelling rather than mere technical instruments. Their collaboration led to the development of lenses that prioritize the filmmaker's vision, offering a balance between precision and character.

The company's commitment to quality is evident in its meticulous rehousing process, where each lens is carefully calibrated and assembled to meet the rigorous demands of professional cinematography. This dedication has garnered attention from industry professionals, with the TS70 series being utilized in notable productions such as Netflix's "Come Sunday" and "How It Ends."

The WPO TS70 and HS Series lenses offer a return to a more tactile and expressive form of visual storytelling. By blending historical optical designs with contemporary engineering, Whitepoint Optics provides filmmakers with lenses that not only meet technical requirements but also inspire creativity.

Film Still shot on The WPO TS70