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

Fujifilm X

Review

When it comes to macro photography, the Venus Laowa 65mm F2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO lens for Fujifilm X mounts stands out as an intriguing option for both enthusiasts and professionals alike. This lens offers a unique combination of features that make it particularly suitable for capturing the finest details of small subjects.

Build and Design

The Laowa 65mm is crafted with precision in mind, featuring a sturdy construction that feels both compact and durable. Weighing in at just 500 grams, it is relatively lightweight given its macro capabilities. The all-metal design adds to its durability while also providing a classic aesthetic appeal. The lens is relatively small, making it easy to handle and able to slide into a bag without taking up excessive space. Furthermore, it includes a 52mm filter thread, allowing for easy attachment of filters if desired.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of the Laowa 65mm is impressive across the board. It offers a maximum magnification of 2x, allowing photographers to get exceptionally close to their subjects. The lens features an apochromatic design, which minimizes chromatic aberrations and ensures that the images maintain sharpness and color accuracy even at wider apertures. The f/2.8 maximum aperture allows for a decent amount of light, which is crucial for macro photography under low lighting conditions.

The lens produces stunningly sharp images, especially in the center of the frame, and the level of detail it captures is remarkable. Out-of-focus areas display a beautiful bokeh thanks to the special blade diaphragm, which helps to create a smooth and aesthetically pleasing background.

Focus System

One noteworthy aspect of the Laowa 65mm is its manual focus mechanism. While this may not be ideal for everyone, it allows for fine-tuning while shooting extremely close-up shots. The focus ring is smooth, providing good tactile feedback as you adjust it. However, the lack of autofocus means that users must be comfortable with manual focusing techniques, which can be a challenge for those used to modern autofocus lenses.

Versatility

Beyond macro shooting, this lens can also perform well as a general-purpose portrait lens, though its true strengths lie in extreme close-ups. The 65mm focal length gives a natural perspective, making it a versatile choice for various photography styles. However, it’s worth noting that for normal portrait work, the relatively close working distance may limit creativity.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical quality with minimal chromatic aberrations.
• High magnification of up to 2x for extreme macro photography.
• Solid and durable all-metal construction.
• Produces beautifully smooth bokeh.
• Relatively lightweight and compact design.

Cons

• Manual focus only; no autofocus capabilities.
• Close working distance can limit composition options in macro shooting.
• The price point may be higher than some entry-level macro lenses.

Verdict

The Venus Laowa 65mm F2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO lens for Fujifilm X mounts provides an exceptional tool for photographers who are serious about macro and fine detail work. While its manual focus may be a drawback for some, the lens's optical performance and build quality are hard to beat. If you're looking for a lens that will allow you to explore the minute details of your subjects while still delivering impressive overall image quality, this lens deserves serious consideration.