Lenses


Venus Optics Automatic Aperture Version of Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT is Here

June 12, 2021

By Jacqueline Tobin

Venus Optics just announced a new Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT lens, which updates the old one with automatic aperture capability; the addition of a chip allows you to control your aperture from the camera, and have that setting stored in the EXIF data of your images. And, adds the company, with the same optical structure as the standard version of 7.5mm f/2, the lens reduces the number of aperture blades to five which renders “stunning 10-points sunstars.”

[Read: Venus Optics Lens Launch: Laowa 65mm & 11mm for Nikon Z and Canon RF Systems]

According to Venus Optics, the Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT is the widest prime lens for Micro Four Thirds (MFT) in the market for the time being, with a 35mm equivalent focal length of around 15mm. Its 110-degree, ultra-wide angle of view and its compactness consists of 13 elements of 9 groups optical design, and the standard version of this lens weighs only 6 ounces, and measures 55mm long; the auto aperture version is even lighter, at 5.29 ounces. With the 46mm filter thread, photographers are able to screw in a circular filter directly on the lens for extra convenience. “This lens is perfect for vlogging, landscape photography and more.”

[Read: The Laowa 4mm f/2.8: A Very Affordable Fisheye from Venus Optics]

The extra-large aperture adds more flexibility to the lens, especially under dim-lit conditions. “Photographers can maintain a faster shutter speed and lower ISO to prevent generating too much unwanted noise. Moreover, it brings a shallower depth of field to separate the subject from the background. The 12cm extremely short minimum focusing distance facilitates close-up photographs which also generates creamy and smoother bokeh with f/2 aperture,” say Venus Optics. “We always strive for additional features in pursuit of better functionality and convenience. With the CPU chip and motor installed, it provides photography enthusiasts a different shooting experience.”

The Laowa 7.5mm f/2 for Micro Four Third cameras with aperture control retails for $549. Pre-order here. (See sample images from Venus Optics in the gallery at top.)