CineSizerSensor Tool

CineSizer is a visual comparison tool that helps filmmakers and cinematographers:

• Compare different sensor sizes side by side
• Understand lens coverage and compatibility
• Visualize how different sensor formats affect field of view
• Access detailed specifications for cameras, lenses, and sensors

CineSizer allows you to:

• Compare multiple sensors simultaneously
• Add as many sensors as you need for comparison
• Visualize relative sizes in real-time
• Toggle sensors on/off easily for clearer comparisons

Tip: For optimal visualization, comparing 2-4 sensors at once is recommended.

Yes, CineSizer fully supports anamorphic lenses:

• Includes data for popular anamorphic lens sets like Atlas Orion
• Shows image circle coverage for anamorphic lenses
• Displays lens mount compatibility
• Provides detailed specifications for each anamorphic lens

Yes, CineSizer includes a comprehensive database:

• Access the Database tab to view all available data
• Browse detailed specifications for sensors, cameras, and lenses
• Filter and sort equipment by various parameters
• Click on any item to see complete technical details

Note: The database is regularly updated with new equipment specifications.

Comparing sensors is simple:

1. Select sensors from the dropdown menu or quick-select buttons
2. View them side by side in the comparison area
3. Click on any sensor to see detailed specifications
4. Use the visual overlay to understand relative sizes

Note: Blue-highlighted items indicate equipment available for rent from our inventory.

Working with your comparisons:

• Selections are automatically saved in your browser
• Return to your last comparison when revisiting
• Use browser bookmarks to save specific combinations
• Screenshot the comparison for sharing or reference

CineSizer provides highly accurate comparisons:

• All measurements are based on manufacturer specifications
• Visual representations are precisely scaled
• Regular updates ensure accuracy with new equipment
• Calculations include both active and total sensor areas

Note: Version history is maintained and viewable for all updates and improvements.

To find compatible lenses:

1. Navigate to the Database tab
2. Select the “Lenses” section
3. Filter by mount type and image circle
4. Click on any lens to see its compatibility with different sensor formats

Tip: The tool automatically shows which lenses will cover your selected sensor size.

Larger sensors create more pronounced bokeh and shallower depth of field because:

• Larger sensors require longer focal lengths to achieve the same field of view
• Longer focal lengths increase background compression and bokeh size
• The larger image circle creates more noticeable out-of-focus areas
• Full Frame sensors typically produce the most cinematic bokeh characteristics

Key differences between anamorphic and spherical shooting:

• Anamorphic lenses create oval bokeh and horizontal lens flares
• Spherical lenses provide consistent, circular bokeh characteristics
• Anamorphic requires larger image circles for proper coverage
• Full Frame sensors may vignette with some anamorphic lenses

Sensor size affects storage and processing requirements:

• Larger sensors typically demand higher data rates
• Full Frame 8K requires significantly more storage than S35 4K
• Higher resolutions need faster media and processing
• Compression options may be limited by sensor size/resolution

The physics of lens coverage affects image quality:

• Image circle must exceed sensor dimensions to avoid vignetting
• Super 35 lenses often cannot fully cover Full Frame sensors
• Anamorphic lenses require larger image circles than spherical
• Corner sharpness decreases near image circle edges

Period-appropriate looks can be partially achieved or inspired by the choice of sensor size:

• Super 16 sensors can emulate 16mm film’s vintage aesthetic, which was heavily used during the 1960s and the French New Wave.
• Super 35 closely matches the classic 35mm motion picture look and might be the appropriate choice for lots of historical films.
• Large format sensors can recreate VistaVision or 65mm film qualities; historical epics will often consider large format sensors for this reason.

Focus pulling complexity varies with sensor size:

• Larger sensors (like Full Frame) have shallower depth of field, making focus more critical
• Smaller sensors (like M4/3) have deeper depth of field, providing more focus forgiveness
• Super 35 offers a balanced middle ground for focus pulling
• Focus breathing effects are more noticeable on larger sensors