The original idea behind ALFA lenses emerged from ARRI Rental's longstanding relationship with cinematographer Greig Fraser ACS, ASC, who was also a key collaborator on the DNA lens program. In response to Fraser's request for fresh large-format anamorphic options, ARRI Rental technicians modified sets of ARRI Master Anamorphic lenses, not just adapting them to cover the larger format, but redesigning and detuning them in pursuit of specific image attributes.
Further prototyping took place in collaboration with cinematographer Nikolaus Summerer, another old friend of ARRI Rental's. After extensive R&D, the specifications for a production series of ALFA lenses were defined. The robust, purpose-designed housings still contain some Master Anamorphic glass, but accompanied by other bespoke optical elements and modifications that combine to create a look that is entirely new.
