Venus Laowa 105mm F2 Smooth Trans Focus

Canon EF

Review

The Venus Laowa 105mm F2 Smooth Trans Focus is an intriguing addition to the lens market, particularly for Canon EF mount users seeking unique focal lengths and creative control. This lens is designed for those photographers who appreciate the artistry of bokeh and soft focus effects, making it a great choice for portrait and macro photography.

One of the standout features of the Laowa 105mm is its Smooth Trans Focus (STF) design, which provides a beautiful, creamy bokeh that is often difficult to achieve with traditional lenses. This characteristic allows for smooth transitions between in-focus and out-of-focus areas, giving your images a dreamy, ethereal quality. The lens also has a fast f/2 aperture, which aids in isolating subjects and performing well in low-light conditions.

In terms of build quality, the Laowa 105mm feels sturdy and well-constructed, which is a plus for photographers who often shoot in various conditions. The lens weighs around 1.5 kg, making it somewhat hefty, but the high-quality metal construction and thoughtful design help justify the weight. The focus ring is smooth and provides a tactile experience, which is especially beneficial for manual focus enthusiasts.

However, it should be noted that this lens does not have autofocus capabilities. While many photographers appreciate the control that comes with manual focus, it may not be ideal for everyone, especially those shooting fast-paced subjects or situations where quick adjustments are necessary. Additionally, while the bokeh is superb, some photographers may find that the image sharpness falls slightly short compared to other lenses in the same focal length range, particularly when shooting at wide apertures.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional Smooth Trans Focus design for beautiful bokeh.
• Fast f/2 aperture for low-light performance and subject isolation.
• Robust build quality and smooth manual focus experience.

Cons

• No autofocus, which may be a limitation for some.
• Image sharpness may not match that of other high-end lenses at wide apertures.

Verdict

Overall, the Venus Laowa 105mm F2 Smooth Trans Focus is a captivating lens for Canon EF users who prioritize artistic expression and a unique approach to focusing. While it has its limitations in terms of autofocus and sharpness, the stunning bokeh and solid build quality make it a remarkable tool for portrait and creative photography. If you are willing to embrace manual focusing and appreciate the dreamy quality it can deliver, this lens could be a fantastic addition to your gear.