Venus Laowa 60mm F2.8 2X Ultra Macro

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Venus Laowa 60mm F2.8 2X Ultra Macro lens is a unique offering that is specifically designed for macro photography, particularly for Nikon F (DX) users. This lens allows photographers to capture stunning details at a 2:1 magnification ratio, which is double the standard macro capability. With its compact size and exceptional optical performance, it's an intriguing choice for both hobbyists and professionals alike.

Design and Build Quality

The Laowa 60mm also boasts a solid build quality, featuring a fully metal construction that ensures durability while remaining relatively lightweight. This is particularly advantageous for fieldwork or extended shooting sessions. The lens is aesthetically pleasing, with a simple and functional design that incorporates a focus ring for precise adjustments. However, the absence of image stabilization may deter some users, especially for handheld macro shots that can often require steady hands.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the Venus Laowa 60mm delivers outstanding sharpness and clarity. At wide apertures, images are crisp, and details are wonderfully rendered. Despite being a macro lens, it performs well in a variety of shooting conditions, offering beautiful bokeh that helps isolate subjects. Additionally, the lens features multi-layer coatings that minimize flare and ghosting, resulting in high contrast images with vibrant colors.

Focusing and Handling

The lens provides a manual focus experience, which may be a point of contention for some users. While many macro photographers appreciate the level of control that manual focusing allows, beginners may find it challenging compared to autofocus systems. The focus throw is smooth, but the precise nature of macro photography often requires patience. The minimum focusing distance of 18.5 cm is excellent for capturing tiny subjects.

Compatibility and Versatility

Although primarily a macro lens, the Laowa 60mm can be utilized for other types of photography, including portraits and landscapes, thanks to its versatile focal length and sharp optical performance. However, users must be mindful of the depth of field when shooting at close distances, as even the smallest adjustments can significantly impact the composition.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent sharpness and optical quality
• 2:1 magnification for extreme macro photography
• Solid metal build and lightweight design
• Beautiful bokeh and color rendition
• Versatile use for other photography styles

Cons

• No image stabilization
• Manual focus may be challenging for beginners
• Limited to Nikon F (DX) mount which may restrict use on other systems

Verdict

Overall, the Venus Laowa 60mm F2.8 2X Ultra Macro lens is an exceptional tool for Nikon F (DX) users who are passionate about macro photography. Its superb optical performance, solid build, and versatility make it a worthy investment. While it may not be suited for everyone, particularly those who prefer autofocus capabilities, it provides the necessary tools for capturing intricate details in the most rewarding manner. If you're looking for a macro lens that performs magnificently and holds up well in various situations, the Laowa 60mm should definitely be on your shortlist.