Why are lenses without click stops preferred on cinema lenses?

[Mark Eastman]

I've noticed that lenses without click stops seem to be preferred with cinema lenses. Is that correct?

Previously, I've done a fair amount of still photography and I learned to, knowing the lens, be able to set the aperture without looking based on the click stops. (I.e. for street photography with a 35mm still camera and a compact prime lens).

Is the lack of click stops for cinema lenses preferred to aide with smooth exposure transition adjustments made during any given film take?

Sorry if this is a dumb question.

Thanks,
Mark

Palo Alto, California

[Sebastian Bock]

Hi, Mark!

Your assumption is correct. When light changes during a take (e.g. by moving clouds) or when you are panning into a brighter/darker situation, you want a smooth adjustment of your exposure. 
 

[Mark Eastman]

Thanks Sebastion!

Mark

Mark Eastman
Palo Alto, California

[Mateusz Czopek]

You also don't want any additional noise, which click marks can make, to happen during a take with audio rolling. 

[Eric Eader]

 

With 'click stops' if you want a hair more or a hair less than the marked aperture, it many times wants to roll forward or backward into the 'click stop' denying you full use of the exposure range.  Harder and slower to set precisely.