A tribute to Cooke S4

The ceasing of production of the Cooke S4/i series marks the end of an era for cinematography. These lenses, iconic for their contribution to the ‘Cooke Look’, have left a permanent mark on the art of visual storytelling. Introduced in 1998, the S4/i series quickly became a favourite among cinematographers, 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 revitalised 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 focusing
• 8-blade irises: Creating soft, pleasing bokeh.
• Flare and aberration control: Excellent optical clarity with minimised veiling glare and distortion.
• Fast T2 Apertures: Groundbreaking for its time and allowing creative employment of narrow depth of field and low light shooting.

In 2005, the introduction of Cooke’s /i Technology further revolutionised the series by embedding metadata capture directly into the lenses, offering unparalleled precision for modern workflows.

With 18 focal lengths, from the ultra-wide 12mm to the striking 300mm, the S4/i series provided filmmakers with a versatile toolkit. These lenses helped shape the visuals of some of the most beloved TV series and films of the past decade. Whether it is the stunning landscapes shot on 35mm film in Breaking Bad, the low-light aesthetic in Game of Thrones, or the iconic and coveted look of Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel, they all have one thing in common: the Cooke S4/i primes.

The optical design of the S4 was ground-breaking at the time, so much so, that in 2013 Cooke was honoured at the 85th Academy Awards “For their continuing innovation in the design, development and manufacture of advanced camera lenses that have helped define the look of motion pictures over the last century.” The Oscar statuette was accepted by Zellan at the ceremony which took place in the Beverly Hills Hotel, LA.

Though production has ceased, the legacy of the S4/i lenses remains secure. They will continue to inspire cinematographers and filmmakers, celebrated as pioneers in blending art and technology.