Venus Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO

Canon RF

Review

The Venus Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO is an intriguing lens designed for Canon RF mount users, catering particularly to macro photography enthusiasts and those who appreciate high-quality optics. This lens stands out for its capability to deliver stunning close-up images with a maximum magnification of 2x while maintaining an impressively flat field.

Design and Build Quality

The build quality of the Laowa 85mm f/5.6 is exceptional. Crafted with a robust metal housing, it feels solid and durable in hand. The lens features a truly unique design with an apochromatic (APO) feature that helps in drastically reducing chromatic aberrations. Additionally, the focus ring operates smoothly, allowing for precise adjustments, which is crucial when shooting extreme close-ups. However, it is worth mentioning that the lens can be slightly on the heavier side, which might be a concern during long shooting sessions.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Laowa 85mm f/5.6 does not disappoint. The lens sports an impressive number of elements arranged in a clever configuration to ensure minimal distortion and fantastic sharpness from center to edges, even at maximum aperture. Furthermore, the bokeh produced is creamy and pleasing, which can be an important factor for portrait and macro photography. The 2x magnification capability makes it a powerhouse for capturing minute details, delivering images that render lifelike textures and colors.

Usability

The Venus Laowa 85mm f/5.6 is a manual focus lens, which may be a limitation for those who rely heavily on autofocus. While manual focus is often preferred for macro photography to ensure precision, it could be challenging for those who are not used to it. The lack of autofocus can also slow down the shooting process, particularly in dynamic environments. However, this does encourage a more thoughtful and calculated approach to framing and focusing, which many photographers appreciate.

Compatibility

As a lens specifically designed for Canon RF mounts, it integrates well with the autofocus systems of modern Canon mirrorless cameras, although the manual focus feature still applies. The 85mm focal length is versatile for both portrait and macro applications, making it an admirable choice for various photography styles.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality and durability
• Impressive optical performance with sharpness and reduced aberrations
• High magnification ratio of 2x for detailed close-ups
• Smooth manual focus ring for precise adjustments
• Good bokeh for portrait photography

Cons

• No autofocus, which may hinder usability for some photographers
• Heavier than expected, potentially cumbersome for prolonged use
• Limited versatility beyond macro and portrait photography

Verdict

Overall, the Venus Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO is a remarkable lens for those looking to delve into the intricate world of macro photography while also maintaining a portrait capability. Its premium build and optical quality clearly shine through, making it a valuable addition to any Canon RF mount user's kit. Although the manual focus limitation may pose a challenge, the rewards of its unparalleled detail and image quality make it a worthy investment for serious photographers. Whether you are capturing the delicate details of nature or crafting exquisite portraits, this lens has the tools to elevate your photography to new heights.