Venus Laowa 12-24mm f/5.6 Zoom Shift CF

Canon EF-M

Review

The Venus Laowa 12-24mm f/5.6 Zoom Shift CF lens is a unique offering designed for Canon EF-M mount users, providing a compelling option for landscape photographers and architectural applications. This lens allows for a wide perspective with a zoom range that covers a significant focal length, making it versatile for various shooting scenarios.

One of the standout features of this lens is its impressive ultra-wide zoom capability. With a focal length of 12-24mm, users can capture sweeping vistas and intricate architecture with ease. The f/5.6 aperture, while not the fastest, is still adequate for most daylight conditions, providing a good balance between depth of field and light sensitivity.

The lens incorporates a unique shift feature, allowing photographers to correct perspective distortion commonly found in wide-angle shots. This function is particularly useful for architectural photography, helping you achieve straight lines without the need for extensive post-processing. The build quality of the lens feels robust, with a carbon fiber construction that not only reduces weight but also adds a touch of sophistication to the design.

However, one downside to consider is the f/5.6 maximum aperture. In low-light situations, especially at the telephoto end, you may need to increase your ISO settings or use longer exposure times. This can be a limitation for those looking to shoot indoors or during twilight. Furthermore, while the lens delivers sharp images, some users may notice slight vignetting and distortion at the extreme edges, which is common for ultra-wide lenses.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Wide zoom range of 12-24mm offers versatility.
• High-quality optics with good sharpness and minimal chromatic aberration.
• Unique shift feature aids in correcting perspective distortion.
• Sturdy, lightweight carbon fiber construction.

Cons

• Maximum aperture of f/5.6 may limit low-light performance.
• Potential for vignetting and distortion at the edges.

Verdict

The Venus Laowa 12-24mm f/5.6 Zoom Shift CF lens is an excellent choice for photographers who require a wide-angle perspective with the ability to correct distortion for architectural compositions. Its solid build and versatile zoom range cater well to landscape and architectural photography. However, users should be mindful of the limitations regarding low-light performance and edge quality. Overall, this lens is a great addition to the Canon EF-M mount lineup, particularly for those who value perspective control in their imaging.