The Projection Optics Story - article on US projection lens maker

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simplejoy

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ProjectionOpticsArticle_Header.jpg


I had read the name "Projection Optics" a couple of times before, but I never would have guessed, that I'd be writing about a small and (in the grand scheme of things) pretty insignificant maker of projection lenses from the US... and yet, after I had stumbled upon an interesting lens from them, I had to take a deeper look.

While (as usual) resources were not plentiful, it was really fascinating to find out some stuff about the small company from Rochester, NY, which has always been focused on projection lenses almost exclusively.

Their Super-Lite and Hilux names were known names in the area of cine projection in the US, but never gained worldwide recognition. What I wouldn't have expected to find is, that the company was very early with their ideas and patents. They certainly always seem to have followed their own unique path.

You can find the article here:

https://deltalenses.com/the-projection-optics-story/

If you have some additional information on Projection Optics, have used one of their lenses or can share something else related to the article, please don't hesitate to reach out. I don't have a great amount of hand-on experience with their lenses, and am thankful for any contribution!

Here are some sample shots taken with Projection Optics lenses:

Hilux_3_1-4inch_041.jpg


Super-Lite_3_3-4inch.jpg


Hilux_3_1-4inch_006.jpg


Super-Lite_3_3-4inch_297.jpg
 

bluechromis

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Projection lenses can be fun. Do you use filters with them?
 
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simplejoy

simplejoy

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Projection lenses can be fun. Do you use filters with them?

Yes - a lot of fun! I've always been interested in unusual lenses used for photography (like enlarging-, industrial, scanner lenses) but the nice thing about projection lenses is the variety when it comes to design and of course their speed.

I almost never use filters - what kind of filters do you mean?
 
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simplejoy

simplejoy

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Woah these are gorgeous and what a cool write up. Lots of research in there!

Thanks a lot! I‘m glad you think so. It‘s a pity most people don‘t care at all. I always thought at least here someone may have a story or two to add about the manufacturer, patents or the Rochester optical scene as a whole…
 
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