Venus Laowa 100mm F2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO

Nikon Z (DX/FX)

Review

The Venus Laowa 100mm F2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO for Nikon Z mount is a specialized macro lens that stands out in the crowd, particularly for those who delve deeply into the world of close-up photography. This lens boasts a remarkable ability to capture fine details, making it an excellent choice for photographers interested in macro work, whether it be nature photography, product shoots, or intricate detail-oriented captures.

Build Quality and Design

Right out of the box, the Laowa 100mm displays exceptional build quality. Constructed with a solid metal body, this lens feels robust and durable, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor usage. The design features a smooth focus ring that allows for precise adjustment, critical when working at such close distances. Additionally, the lens balance is generally good, but it's worth noting that it can feel a bit front-heavy on lighter camera bodies.

Optical Performance

One of the key highlights of the Laowa 100mm F2.8 is its optics. With a 2:1 magnification ratio, this lens allows you to get incredibly close to your subjects while maintaining sharpness and clarity. It features an apochromatic design that significantly reduces chromatic aberration, providing stunning image quality even in challenging light situations. Sharpness is impressive, even wide open, and continues to improve as you stop down, making it a versatile choice for various shooting needs.

Macro Capabilities

When it comes to macro capabilities, the Laowa 100mm F2.8 excels. You can achieve life-size reproduction at a 1:1 magnification ratio and push it further to 2:1, which opens up a world of creative possibilities. The working distance is quite generous, allowing you to maintain a safe distance from skittish subjects like insects while still capturing fine details. This aspect, combined with the lens's excellent bokeh, gives the images an artistic feel, setting the stage for beautiful macro shots.

Compatibility with Nikon Z System

Designed specifically for the Nikon Z mount, this lens integrates well with Nikon's mirrorless systems. Users can take advantage of the camera's focus peaking and other focus aids to aid in achieving critical focus, especially at macro distances where depth of field can be incredibly shallow.

Autofocus and Usability

It's important to note that this lens is manual focus only, which may not be suitable for all users. While many macro enthusiasts prefer manual focus for precision, others may find this a drawback, particularly when shooting moving subjects. The lack of autofocus can require additional patience and skill, particularly for those who are used to more automated systems.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Incredible macro capabilities with 2:1 magnification.
• Excellent optical performance with minimal aberration.
• Solid build quality and design.
• Great for artistic shots with beautiful bokeh.

Cons

• Manual focus only, which might not be ideal for all photographers.
• Can be front-heavy, particularly on lighter camera bodies.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Venus Laowa 100mm F2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO is a remarkable lens for photographers seeking to explore the world of macro photography with their Nikon Z cameras. Its impressive optical performance and solid build quality make it a worthy addition to any macro enthusiast's toolkit. However, its manual focus design may deter some users who prefer the convenience of autofocus. If you're ready to embrace the challenges of manual focus and desire outstanding detail and clarity in your macro images, this lens will not disappoint.