Venus Laowa 65mm F2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO

Canon EF-M

Review

The Venus Laowa 65mm F2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO lens for Canon EF-M is an intriguing choice for macro enthusiasts looking to push the boundaries of what these compact cameras can achieve. With its impressive 2:1 magnification capability, this lens caters perfectly to those who want to capture intricate details of small subjects, from insects to flowers.

Design and Build Quality

The build quality of the Laowa 65mm is robust yet relatively lightweight for a macro lens. It features a solid metal body that gives it a premium feel. The lens is designed with an apochromatic (APO) optical arrangement, which minimizes color fringing and ensures sharp images with excellent contrast. A nice touch is the focus distance indicator, which is particularly useful when you're working very close to your subject.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of this lens is its standout feature. With 12 elements in 10 groups, the optical design ensures that it provides sharp images even at the maximum aperture of f/2.8. The detail resolution is top-notch, making it possible to capture the finest features of your subject. Additionally, the lens performs remarkably well in controlling chromatic aberration, which is often a concern in macro photography. The background blur, or bokeh, is pleasing and smooth, which helps in isolating subjects effectively.

Usability

One of the key points to consider with the Laowa 65mm is that it is a manual focus lens. This can be both a pro and a con, depending on your shooting style. The manual focusing ring is well-damped and smooth, allowing for precise adjustments when focusing at very close distances. However, it may not be the best option for those who require fast autofocus, especially in dynamic environments.

Compatibility

Being a lens specifically made for the Canon EF-M mount, it seamlessly integrates with Canon's mirrorless cameras offering excellent image quality. However, the lack of image stabilization might be a downside for some, particularly when shooting at high magnification levels where even the slightest shake can be detrimental.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical quality with high sharpness and contrast.
• 2:1 magnification for extreme close-ups.
• Pleasing bokeh and minimal chromatic aberration.
• Solid build quality with a premium feel.

Cons

• Manual focus only, which may not appeal to everyone.
• No image stabilization, which can affect handheld shooting at extreme close distances.
• A bit heavier compared to some other macro lenses in its class.

Verdict

The Venus Laowa 65mm F2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO lens is an exceptional choice for macro photographers using Canon EF-M mount cameras who prioritize optical quality and are comfortable with manual focusing. While it may pose some challenges in terms of usability due to its lack of autofocus and stabilization, the rewards of its imaging capabilities make it a compelling option for serious macro work. If you're willing to invest the time to master manual focusing, this lens will not disappoint in delivering stunning detail and vibrant images.