# Lomography's Petzval Lens Twists Backgrounds into Vortex

> Lomography's new Petzval lens creates vortex-like backgrounds for creative storytelling.
- Title: Lomography's Petzval Lens Twists Backgrounds into Vortex
- Summary: Lomography's new Petzval lens creates vortex-like backgrounds for creative storytelling. Lomography released a 35mm f/1.8 lens that twists backgrounds into…
- Keywords: lomography, petzval, joseph petzval metamorphose, 35mm lens, f1.8, bokeh, vortex effect, film photography, creative lens, Lomography's, Lens, Twists
- Source: Digital Camera World — https://digitalcameraworld.com/cameras/lenses/lomography-just-reinvented-its-famous-petzval-look-with-a-lens-that-can-twist-backgrounds-into-a-vortex
- Published: 2026-09-30T13:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: lomography, petzval, joseph petzval metamorphose, 35mm lens, f1.8, bokeh, vortex effect, film photography, creative lens
## Lomography launches new Petzval lens
Lomography has released the Joseph Petzval Métamorphose 35mm f/1.8 lens for Sony E, Canon RF, and Nikon Z mounts.
## Lens creates vortex-like backgrounds
The lens produces a vortex effect that stretches light into comet shapes and makes backgrounds surge around the subject.
## Adjustable bokeh effect
Photographers can adjust the effect across seven levels using aperture and focus for creative control.
## Historical optical design
Lomography uses Carl Friedrich Gauss's 1817 Single Gaussian lens design, which was historically rejected for photography.
## Manual focus and control
The lens features manual helicoid focusing and no electronic contacts for an old-school optical experience.
## Film and video compatibility
The lens supports 180-degree focus throw and mod 0.8 follow-focus gearing for seamless video use.
## Price and availability
The lens costs $649 (approximately £489 / AU$930) with no on-sale date announced.
## Creative storytelling tool
Lomography positions the lens as a tool for adding speed, confusion, and horror film aesthetics to static scenes.
## Key takeaway

Lomography released a 35mm f/1.8 lens that twists backgrounds into vortex effects for filmmakers and photographers.