FL lenses were Canon's first SLR lens mount introduced in 1964. FD replaced it in 1971 with a bayonet mount. New FD lenses were the last FD models made, first introduced in the early 1980s.

FL/FD lenses are all manual focus, with an all-metal construction and buttery smooth focus rings. Lens coatings evolved from single coating on early FLs to multiple coatings on later FD lenses for better contrast.

The lenses have a vintage look and feel, with engraved markings on aperture/focus rings. This makes them appealing for use in digital cinema work.

Optical performance is very good, especially on late model FD Aspherical labeled lenses that later became the New FD's "L" versions. Notable lenses include the 50mm f/1.2L and 85mm f/1.2L.

FD lenses can be adapted to modern mirrorless cameras using adapters with no optical elements. This retains their original optical qualities, also retaining the optical qualities is the Hard mount EF modern mount available with the cine-modified upgrade from Sensor-Lens. This EF mount allows these lenses to work on almost all high-end digital cinema cameras like RED, ARRI, Black Magic, Canon, and more.

The all-manual operation and vintage look give images a classic film-like rendition. Bokeh is often described as smooth and film-like as well due to the lens designs.

FD lenses offer an affordable way to get high-performance glass compared to modern lenses. Their vintage appeal and cinematic qualities make them popular for digital cinema, especially on full-frame cameras.

Overall, Canon FL/FD lenses are valued for build quality, optics, manual control, and a vintage look and feel that suits creative/cinematic photography work.

Sensor-Lens sells sets of Canon FL/FD Still Lenses that have been converted to Cine-Style Cinema Lenses. First, these lenses are all hand-selected for scratch-, dust-, and fungus-free glass, and bodies that are in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition. Then the lenses are carefully taken apart, cleaned, and adjusted if necessary. The aperture ring is de-clicked for smooth operation, custom-milled Delrin™ press-fit lens rings are installed, and 80mm standardized fronts are installed. The whole set comes nicely packaged in a Pelican™ water- and dustproof case.

Canon nFD Manual Focus Lenses Available:

• 14mm f2.8 L

• 17mm f4.0

• 20mm f2.8

• 24mm f1.4 L

• 24mm f2.0

• 28mm f2.0

• 28mm f2.8

• 35mm f2.0

• 50mm f1.2 L

• 50mm f1.2 Non L

• 50mm f1.4

• 85mm f1.8

• 85mm f1.2 L

• 100mm f2.0

• 135mm f2.0

• 200mm f2.8 L

Available in FD mount or full conversion to aluminum EF hard mount.

Discover how our expertly modified Canon nFD lenses can enhance your cinematography – contact Sensor-Lens today through our contact page to explore your custom lens modification options and find the perfect set for your next project.