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

Canon RF

Review

The Venus Laowa 65mm F2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO lens is a remarkable piece of engineering that caters to macro photography enthusiasts, particularly those utilizing Canon's RF mount. Designed for capturing incredible details at a 2x magnification ratio, it stands out in the macro lens market due to its unique features and performance capabilities.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Laowa 65mm is impressive, showcasing a robust metal construction that provides a premium feel. The lens has a minimalistic design, featuring a sleek matte black finish with well-marked focus and aperture rings. The focus ring is smooth and offers a good amount of resistance, allowing for precise focusing which is crucial when dealing with the shallow depth of field typical in macro photography. It’s also a relatively compact lens, making it easier to handle during long shooting sessions.

Optics and Performance

Optically, the Laowa 65mm f/2.8 is equipped with special low-dispersion glass elements that minimize chromatic aberration and ensure high clarity across the frame. The lens produces sharp images even at wide apertures, and its performance only gets better when stopped down. Bokeh is beautifully rendered, providing pleasing out-of-focus areas that complement macro subjects well.

One of the standout features of this lens is its capability to achieve a 2:1 magnification ratio, which allows photographers to capture detailed textures and features that would otherwise be missed. This makes it an ideal choice for everything from botanical studies to insect photography. Additionally, the lens features an aperture range of f/2.8 to f/22, providing versatility for various lighting conditions.

Compatibility and Use

The Laowa 65mm is specifically designed for Canon RF mounts, thus ensuring seamless compatibility with Canon's mirrorless camera systems. The absence of electronic contacts means that aperture control is manual, which may be a drawback for those used to electronic feedback on their lenses. However, this manual control can also be seen as an advantage for photographers who prefer a hands-on approach.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent sharpness and detail at all apertures.
• High-quality build and durable construction.
• 2:1 magnification capability, perfect for extreme close-ups.
• Good control over chromatic aberration and distortion.
• Compact and lightweight, making it suitable for fieldwork.

Cons

• Manual aperture control might not appeal to all users.
• Lack of image stabilization, which can make handheld shooting challenging at extreme magnifications.
• Some users may find the working distance limiting for certain subjects.

Verdict

The Venus Laowa 65mm F2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO lens is an exceptional tool for those venturing into the world of macro photography. Its solid construction, impressive optical performance, and unique 2x magnification feature make it a fantastic choice for both amateur and professional photographers. While the manual operation might not suit everyone and the absence of image stabilization could be limiting, the lens delivers on its promise of quality and detail. Overall, it is a highly recommended addition to any macro photographer’s arsenal, especially for those utilizing Canon's RF system.