Cooke Optics has added Nikon Z to the list of available mirrorless lens mount options for its SP3 and AP3 compact lens series, following a licensing agreement with Nikon, according to Cooke Optics. The update allows filmmakers to mount the spherical and anamorphic prime lenses natively onto Nikon Z bodies and RED cinema cameras featuring the Z mount.
Native Nikon Z Mount Options for Cooke SP3 and AP3 Lenses
The Cooke SP3 prime series launched in September 2023 to bring the traditional “Cooke Look” to compact mirrorless systems, offering six focal lengths spanning from 18mm to 100mm. These spherical primes were recently joined by the AP3 series, which includes three 1.5x anamorphic focal lengths at 35mm, 50mm, and 85mm, according to product details from Cooke Optics. While Sony E mount comes as standard, the lens mounts are user-interchangeable, allowing operators to swap to Canon RF, Leica L, Leica M, or the newly added Nikon Z mount.
Previously, users paired Cooke SP3 and AP3 lenses with Nikon ZR or Z-mount RED cameras—such as the V-RAPTOR [X], V-RAPTOR XE, and KOMODO-X—using third-party adapters like the Megadap ETZ21 Pro+ or Viltrox E-Z. However, according to user reports cited by Cooke Optics, third-party adapters can introduce mechanical play or interfere with the camera mount. Specifically, the Megadap ETZ21 Pro+ has been reported to scratch the gold locking ring on Z-mount RED cameras, making the new native Nikon Z mount a preferred alternative for many shooters.
Compatibility and Anamorphic Shooting Challenges
While the lenses produce pleasing images on both Nikon and RED systems, pairing the AP3 anamorphic series with Nikon bodies presents a practical hurdle. According to user feedback, no Nikon camera currently supports in-camera anamorphic de-squeeze, a feature frequently requested by cinematographers. Filmmakers are looking to future firmware updates, such as a long-awaited release for the Nikon ZR, to resolve the monitoring limitation.
Pro Tip: If you already own a set of Cooke SP3 or AP3 lenses, you do not need to buy new glass to use the updated system. Cooke Optics confirmed that the Nikon Z mount can be purchased separately as an interchangeable accessory.
Pricing and Availability
The Nikon Z mounts for the Cooke SP3 and AP3 series are scheduled to begin shipping in August, according to the manufacturer. Buyers purchasing new lens sets can select Nikon Z as a secondary mount option at checkout, while existing owners can order the mount as an additional accessory to convert their current kits.
Did you know? The Cooke SP3 series was designed specifically for full-frame mirrorless cameras, marking a shift toward lighter weight cine optics without sacrificing the aesthetic heritage of traditional Cooke glass.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert my existing Cooke SP3 lenses to Nikon Z mount?
Yes. The Cooke SP3 and AP3 lens mounts are user-interchangeable, and the Nikon Z mount is available as an additional accessory for existing lens owners, according to Cooke Optics.
Do I still need third-party adapters for RED Z-mount cameras?
No. With the introduction of the native Nikon Z mount, shooters can attach Cooke SP3 and AP3 lenses directly to Z-mount RED bodies like the V-RAPTOR [X] and KOMODO-X without relying on third-party adapters that risk scratching the camera mount.
Do Nikon cameras support anamorphic de-squeeze for the AP3 series?
As of now, no Nikon camera natively supports anamorphic de-squeeze, meaning operators using the AP3 series must rely on external monitors or future firmware updates for proper image monitoring.
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