DZOFILM Arles Lustre is a high-speed large-format prime series conceived as a contemporary interpretation of cinematic glow. The name Lustre refers to a soft radiance—an intentional homage to the golden halation that defined classic film imagery. Rather than pursuing sterile optical perfection, the series explores how light can shape emotion, atmosphere, and depth within the frame, built on a modern optical foundation.

At the core of the Arles Lustre identity is a proprietary coating formula that produces warm amber flares and a delicate highlight bloom. Bright sources glow gently without overwhelming the image, while contrast rolls off smoothly into shadows. The rendering feels luminous and poetic, evoking a vintage sensibility while maintaining modern control. Skin tones carry natural warmth, and highlights transition with a softness that enhances intimacy and mood.

Despite this expressive character, the lenses remain optically disciplined. The reconfigured large-format optical structure provides strong flare control and stable contrast behavior across the frame. Wide-open at T1.6, the lenses maintain clarity and dimensionality, allowing precise separation between subject and background even in low-light conditions. Shadow detail remains nuanced, tonal gradation is smooth, and depth of field transitions feel organic rather than abrupt.

Arles Lustre primes are fully compatible with large-format sensors, delivering high-resolution performance suitable for contemporary digital cinema workflows up to 12K. Edge-to-edge sharpness is maintained even at maximum aperture, while distortion and astigmatism are carefully minimized. The 16-blade iris produces rounded, textured bokeh free from onion-ring artifacts, complementing the amber flare signature with a romantic, immersive quality.

The focal range spans 14mm to 180mm, creating a cohesive visual language across wide, standard, and telephoto perspectives. Color consistency, smooth falloff, and balanced contrast ensure that the entire set behaves as a unified system rather than a collection of individual lenses.

Mechanically, the Arles Lustre series is built to professional cinema standards. The lenses feature a PL mount, dual imperial/metric focus scales, a 95mm front diameter compatible with standard M86 filters, and uniform gear placement for seamless lens swaps. They are also compatible with rear magnetic filters, allowing creative filtration behind the optical path for diffusion and flare control without adding bulk to the front of the lens. With weights ranging from 1.4kg to 1.9kg, they balance durability with mobility—suitable for handheld work, gimbals, drones, and high-speed robotic systems.

The distinctive desert-gold finish reflects the series’ blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary engineering. A matte front surface reduces reflections on set while preserving the refined tactile identity of the lens body.

Arles Lustre lenses are designed for cinematographers seeking controlled luminosity rather than aggressive character—a large-format image that feels soft yet precise, warm yet structurally sound. They occupy a space between modern clinical sharpness and overt vintage degradation, offering a refined glow that enhances narrative atmosphere without sacrificing reliability.

DZOFILM Arles Lustre primes are designed for filmmakers seeking a controlled yet expressive large-format image—combining optical precision with a warm, cinematic glow. They offer a compelling balance between modern resolution and timeless atmosphere, making them a versatile choice for productions that prioritize emotional texture alongside technical performance.