+44 (0)1455 848 411
Who Are We
At TLS (True Lens Services), we bring cinematic vision to life. Based in the heart of the UK, we're a world-renowned team of lens experts trusted by top filmmakers, rental houses, and studios across the globe.
From cutting-edge lens rehousing to precision servicing and our own line of in-house optics, we’re driven by passion, powered by experience, and obsessed with quality. Every lens we touch carries the TLS mark of craftsmanship, performance, and innovation.
Lens Rehousing
We breathe new life into your lenses through expert rehousing. Whether it’s classic anamorphics or modern primes, our team ensures your gear not only performs flawlessly but also retains its timeless character. Our custom rehousing services are designed for filmmakers who demand perfection—on set and beyond.
Lenses for Sale
Ready to buy your next masterpiece? We offer an exclusive range of new and pre-owned lenses for sale. From vintage treasures to re-housed cinematic lenses, our carefully selected collection ensures that you get the highest quality for your investment. Whether you’re looking for vintage primes, or custom-designed lenses like our Vega Lenses, we have options to suit every filmmaker’s needs.
Take a look at our lens collection – Browse what’s up for sale
Servicing & Aftercare
Your lenses deserve the best care. Our comprehensive servicing keeps them in top shape, from routine maintenance to complex repairs. With TLS, your lenses stay ready for every shoot—no matter how demanding.
Find out more about Servicing and Aftercare Services
What DOPs Say About Us
Don’t just take our word for it—see what Directors of Photography have to say about collaborating with us. From custom rehousings to seamless service, we pride ourselves on delivering excellence on every project. Explore our case studies to discover how TLS lenses and services have helped bring incredible stories to life.
Robbie Ryan BSC, ISC
Cinematographer Robbie Ryan BSC ISC takes us behind the scenes of Poor Things, sharing his creative approach to the film’s bold visual style and discussing how TLS-rehoused Petzval lenses played a key role in achieving its distinctive look.
Nicola Daley BSC, ACS
Take a behind-the-scenes look at why cinematographer Nicola Daley ACS chose TLS-rehoused Canon K35 lenses for Season 5 of The Handmaid’s Tale—and what she had to say about how they performed on set.
Meet the Team
Richard Kilner – Chairman
Richard Kilner brings extensive international business and board-level experience in finance, investment, and corporate governance. As Executive Chairman, he provides strategic oversight, ensures alignment between board direction and operations, and supports growth initiatives, while mentoring the leadership team and strengthening external partnerships.
Gavin Whitehurst – Director of Engineering and Design
A qualified mechanical engineer with over 18 years' experience in the film and television industry, Gavin joined TLS in 2009 and now leads the company’s Engineering and Design teams. He oversees lens design, prototyping, and technical development, while driving innovation, quality, and day-to-day leadership across the company.
Central to Gavin’s role is steering TLS’s evolution from its heritage in lens servicing and rehousing into a new era as a leading creator of cine lenses for the next generation of filmmakers. His focus is on harnessing technical excellence and creative vision to develop lens solutions that inspire storytelling and redefine what filmmakers can achieve.
Mark Durkin – Director of Finance and Business Support
With over 20 years in senior finance roles across multiple industries, Chartered Accountant Mark Durkin shapes TLS’s business, financial and people strategies, ensuring stability, sustainable growth and policies that make TLS a great place to work at. He aligns financial planning with business objectives, strengthens governance, and translates complex data into clear insights to support decision-making.
Stephen Lowe – Director of Operations
Having risen through TLS over 12 years from trainee to Director of Operations, Stephen oversees daily operations while leading strategic initiatives, ESG efforts, and business transformations. Stephen has been pivotal in expanding TLS, establishing new departments, and driving diversification. Stephen also takes pride in mentoring and strengthening his team.
Join the TLS Family
At True Lens Services, we're always looking for passionate, talented individuals to help us push the boundaries of cinematography. If you’re a problem-solver, a creator, and someone who thrives in a dynamic, hands-on environment, we want to hear from you. Join our team and be part of a company that’s redefining the lens industry—one innovation at a time.
TLS and the Environment
At TLS, our core values of innovation and uncompromising quality in lens design are matched by an equally strong commitment to sustainability. We believe that excellence in filmmaking should go hand in hand with responsibility to our planet, and we are dedicated to driving the film industry toward a greener, more sustainable future.
Learn more about TLS’s commitment to environmental responsibility
What We’ve Been Up To
Stay up to date with all things TLS! From exciting news to upcoming events, we’re constantly evolving and pushing the boundaries of cinematography. See what we’ve been working on and what’s coming next.
Read our latest news here | Check out our upcoming events here |
Stay in the Loop
Want to be the first to know about new products, exclusive offers, and behind-the-scenes updates? Sign up for our newsletter and stay connected with everything happening at TLS.
Support & Partnerships
We’re proud to support and stand alongside these organisations, each of which plays an important role in driving progress and making a positive impact within our industry and communities. By working together, we share knowledge, uphold common values, and contribute to a stronger, more sustain able future.
