Capturing the Heart of the Game: The Optex 33x1 Zoom Lens

In the realm of sports cinematography, the Optex 33x1 zoom lens holds a legendary status, particularly in the world of NFL Films. This lens, though discontinued, has played a pivotal role in capturing the intricate details and emotions of the game, offering a perspective that is as close to the action as possible.

The Optex 33x1, with its impressive 33x zoom range, was a game-changer for NFL Films. It allowed cinematographers to capture wide shots and then zoom in to tight close-ups without losing clarity or focus. This capability enabled them to cover the entire breadth of the field, from head to toe shots at the pylon to tight close-ups at the 50-yard line.

The lens's journey to the sidelines was made possible through a rehousing process, converting it from a Canon broadcast lens to a cinema-style lens. This modification was carried out by Opex in England, a pioneer in lens rehousing at the time. The result was a lens that combined the best of both worlds: the mechanical precision of broadcast lenses and the artistic flexibility of cinema lenses.

One of the earliest memorable moments captured using the Optex 33x1 was during the 2000 season, week six, Buffalo at Miami. Cinematographer Steve Andrich recalls the clarity and range of the lens as he followed the action, realizing its potential to revolutionize sports cinematography.

The lens's versatility was on full display at Super Bowl 57, where a 45-yard pass from Jaylen Hurts to AJ Brown was captured perfectly by cinematographer, Ben Johnson. The lens's ability to follow the action from beginning to end, without any limitations, is what sets it apart.

Beyond capturing the action on the field, the Optex 33x1 allows cinematographers to dive into the emotional and psychological aspects of the game. From the intense focus in a quarterback's eyes to the strategic positioning of the defense, the lens brings viewers closer to the heart of the game.

Despite its discontinuation, the Optex 33x1 zoom lens continues to be a prized possession for NFL Films, with only a handful of these lenses known to exist. Its unique range and ability to capture both the big picture and the intricate details make it an irreplaceable tool in the world of sports cinematography.

As the lens captures the emotion, the strategy, and the sheer physicality of the game, it reminds us that in football, as in life, it's the details that matter. The Optex 33x1 may be a relic of the past, but its impact on the way we see and experience the game will be felt for generations to come.

Enjoy this NFL Films Presents video from 2023: https://youtu.be/hY4OuQrHBUc?si=JYVllvi3x-UI3XOO