Minimal modification of a still camera lens for cinema use: adds gear adapter and extended focus throw while preserving original housing.
A cinemod is the lightest form of lens rehousing. Instead of replacing the complete housing of a photo lens, only the essentials are adapted: a gear ring is screwed or glued on, the focus throw is mechanically extended, and sometimes the aperture click is removed. The original housing is retained.
Cinemod vs. Rehousing
In a full rehousing, the optics are transplanted into a completely new housing—uniform front diameter, standardized length, professional gear rings. With a cinemod, the photo housing remains: the lenses have different diameters, different weights, different lengths. However, a cinemod typically costs €200-€500 instead of €1,500-€3,000 for a full rehousing.
Duclos Lenses
The best-known provider is Duclos Lenses in Los Angeles. Their cinemod service for Leica R, Canon FD, and Nikon AI-S lenses has become the de facto industry standard. A Duclos cinemod of a Leica R 35mm f/1.4 delivers the iconic Leica look with a cine-ready focus throw—at a fraction of the cost of a Leica Summilux-C.
When Cinemod, When Rehousing?
- Cinemod: when the budget is limited, only 1-2 focal lengths are needed, or the lenses should also remain usable as photo glass.
- Full Rehousing: when a complete matched set is needed, front diameters must be identical, or the lens will be used permanently in cine applications.
Related terms
Quiz
1. Was beschreibt „Cinemod" am besten?
2. Zu welchem Department gehört „Cinemod"?