How F1 The Movie Was Shot Using the Most Advanced Cine Lenses

The new F1 The Movie, starring Brad Pitt and directed by Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick), is not just a thrilling return to the track—it’s a technical masterpiece. And for anyone curious about how it was filmed, the lenses and cinema cameras used tell a fascinating story.

A Cinematic Ride Through Real Grand Prix Weekends

Shot during actual Grand Prix weekends, F1 The Movie puts viewers in the driver’s seat. To do that, cinematographer Claudio Miranda ASC ACC relied on a wide mix of professional cine lenses and cameras—each chosen for a specific visual feel.

The Lenses Behind the Speed

To capture the intensity and elegance of F1, the film used some of the most respected cinema lenses available:

• Panavision Primo 70 (including the -4P series): Known for their rich color and depth, ideal for wide shots of racing action.
• Sigma FF High Speed: Deliver crisp images even in low light—perfect for garage and pit scenes.
• Arri/Zeiss Master Prime: Ultra-sharp, excellent for close-ups and emotion.
• Fujinon Premier & Premista: Used for dynamic zooms and smooth focus shifts during high-speed shots.
• Voigtländer & Zeiss Loxia: Compact and precise—great for tight spaces and cockpit views.
• Sony G-Master: Their fast autofocus made them ideal for handheld or mobile setups.

The Cameras: Big and Small, Working Together

Miranda paired these lenses with cutting-edge cameras like:

• Sony CineAlta Venice 2 and Rialto Mini for rich, cinematic detail
• DJI Ronin 4D for fluid motion shots
• And yes, even the iPhone 15 Pro Max, proving small tools can capture big moments

Want to See These Lenses in Action?

You can explore behind-the-scenes videos, breakdowns and more technical deep dives in our Shot On – Reels section.
Discover and share real-world footage of cinema lenses in action.