Cooke has discontinued their legendary S4/i Series. The ceasing of production of the Cooke S4/i series marks the end of an era for cinematography. These lenses are iconic for their contribution to the famed and revered ‘Cooke Look’, and they have left a permanent mark on the art of visual storytelling.
They were introduced way back in 1998, and they quickly became a favorite among cinematographers, by offering a unique combination of technical innovation, artistic character, and mechanical precision.
The S4 series was born out of a need to update Cooke’s offerings, following the popularity of the Speed Panchro lenses. When Les Zellan revitalized the Cooke brand with a new facility in Leicester, the S4 lenses became the first major product line to emerge, combining modern optics with timeless aesthetic qualities.
Key technical features include:
- Smooth cam-focus mechanics: A four-point bearing system ensuring precise adjustments.
- Super35 compatibility: Designed for modern digital and film capture formats.
- 270–340° focus rotation: Allowing fine-tuned and intricate …