Venus Optics Announces Laowa 12-24mm F5.6 Lens

Venus Optics has announced the manual focus Laowa 12-24mm F5.6 wide-angle lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras.

As well as a version for Sony E-mount their are also versions available for Leica M, Nikon Z and Canon RF.

The lens is constructed of 15 elements in 11 groups. Of these 15 elements there are 2 aspherical elements and 3 ED elements. The front element includes what Venus calls a “Frog-Eye” coating, which repels dust and water.

There’s also a five-bladed aperture diaphragm which according to Venus Optics helps to deliver “stunning 10-point” sun stars.

The lens features three rings on the body: a focus ring, a zoom ring and an aperture ring.

An adapter ring is also included that allows you to use 77mm screw-in filters. The adapter ring also functions as a lens hood.

The dimensions of the lens vary based on the mount that you choose, but the Sony E-mount versions measures 2.73x 3.68″ (69.4*93.6mm) and weighs in at around 1.09lbs / 497g (with no hood or front/rear caps).

Early Reviews

Key Specs

Format:	Full Frame
Focal length:	12-24mm
Max. Aperture:	f/5.6
Angle of view:	84° – 121.9°
Lens structure:	15 elements in 11 groups(2 aspherical elements, 3 ED elements)
Aperture blades:	5
Min. focusing distance:	5.91″/15cm
Max. Magnification:	0.4x
Focus Mode:	Manual (MF)
Filter thread:	ø77mm
Dimensions:	About ø2.73x 3.30″ (69.4*84mm) (M)ø2.73×3.60″ (69.4*91.6mm) (R)ø2.73x 3.68″ (69.4*93.6mm) (E)ø2.73x 3.76″ (69.4*95.6mm) (Z)
Weight:	About 1.09lbs/497g (with no hood or front/rear caps)
Mount:	Leica M / Sony E / Nikon Z / Canon RF

The Laowa 12-24mm F5.6 is already available to purchase via Venus Optics and authorized resellers for $649 (US dollars).

For more information on this lens please visit the Venus Optics website.