Venus Laowa 17mm F1.8

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Venus Laowa 17mm F1.8 is a remarkable lens designed specifically for the Micro Four Thirds mount, providing photographers with an impressive combination of features that benefit various styles of shooting. With its wide aperture and compact design, the lens is perfect for street photography, landscapes, and even astrophotography, thanks to its ability to gather ample light and render sharp detail.

One of the standout features of this lens is its fast f/1.8 maximum aperture. This allows for excellent low-light performance and provides a pleasing shallow depth of field for creative effects. When shooting in dim environments or during the golden hour, the lens delivers stunning results without excessive noise. Furthermore, the wide 17mm focal length on a Micro Four Thirds camera translates to a 34mm equivalent, making it versatile for both candid moments and broader scenes.

The optical design of the Laowa 17mm F1.8 includes 15 elements arranged in 10 groups, including extra-low dispersion (ED) and high refractive index elements. This helps reduce chromatic aberration and distortion, ensuring images are sharp and clear across the frame. Users will appreciate the minimal flare and ghosting, even when shooting towards the sun, which is often a challenge in wide-angle photography. The lens also features a 37mm filter thread, making it easy to add filters for further creative control.

However, the Laowa 17mm F1.8 does have its quirks. Its manual focus design may not appeal to every photographer, particularly those who prefer the convenience of autofocus for fast-paced shooting situations. While manual focusing can provide greater precision, it requires a learning curve and some patience. The lens is also relatively small and lightweight, but this might prompt concerns about build quality for some users. Although the construction feels solid, it lacks weather-sealing, which might deter those who frequently shoot in challenging weather conditions.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Fast f/1.8 maximum aperture for low-light performance and depth of field control
• Compact and lightweight, ideal for travel and street photography
• Excellent optical performance with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration
• Versatile 17mm focal length for various shooting scenarios

Cons

• Manual focus may not suit all photographers
• Lacks weather-sealing, limiting use in adverse conditions
• Compact design might raise concerns about overall build quality

Verdict

The Venus Laowa 17mm F1.8 is a commendable addition to any Micro Four Thirds photographer's kit, offering exceptional image quality and versatility in a small package. While its manual focus and absence of weather-sealing may not appeal to everyone, the benefits of the fast aperture and optical performance make it a compelling choice for those focused on creative control. If you're looking for a wide-angle lens that excels in low light and delivers stunning results, the Laowa 17mm F1.8 is definitely worth considering.