The 40mm focal length is considered by many to be the perfect 'normal' lens to portray a natural field of view on a large format cinema camera – and joins the existing seven-strong set of 18mm T1.5, 25mm T1.5, 35mm T1.5, 50mm T1.5, 85mm T1.5, 105mm T1.5, and 135mm T1.5 high resolution (8K+) Vista prime lenses. The mid-wide image created by the Vista 40mm T1.5 does not distract the viewer and offers a unique perspective when compared to the staple 35mm and 50mm focal length lenses.

Tokina Cinema Vista lenses have become an increasingly popular choice for productions, earning a reputation for elegant and highly detailed images. Lens distortion and chromatic aberration are well-controlled, with minimal focus breathing, soft pleasing flare, and gentle roll-off from subject to background. The Vista 40mm T1.5 inherits these characteristics, giving cinematographers more creative freedom to choose their point of view while maintaining complete control of their image.

The Vista 40mm T1.5 has an area of definition of 46.7mm. The lens also has an area of illumination that will cover larger formats up to Alexa65 2:1 Open Gate. The lens retains the same form factor as other Vista Prime lenses with a 114mm front diameter and weight of approximately 2.25kg (5 lbs) which is similar to others in the series.