Venus Laowa Argus 33mm F0.95 CF APO

Nikon Z (DX/FX)

Review

The Venus Laowa Argus 33mm F0.95 CF APO is a unique lens that caters specifically to Nikon Z mount users looking for a fast, high-quality prime option. With its wide maximum aperture of f/0.95, this lens is designed to excel in low-light conditions and provide a shallow depth of field, allowing photographers to achieve striking bokeh and smooth background separation.

One of the standout features of the Argus 33mm is its apochromatic (APO) design, which minimizes chromatic aberrations and enhances overall image sharpness. This means that even at wide-open apertures, you can expect images that are impressively sharp across the frame, making it a great choice for portraiture, street photography, and artistic endeavors. The build quality feels substantial, with a solid metal construction that not only adds durability but also an air of professionalism to your shooting experience.

However, it's important to note that the lens is manual focus only, which may not appeal to everyone. While many photographers appreciate the control that manual focus allows, it can also slow down shooting in fast-paced scenarios. Additionally, due to the lens's size and weight, it may feel a bit front-heavy on smaller mirrorless bodies, potentially affecting handling during extended shoots.

The lens features a 10-blade diaphragm, which contributes to its impressive bokeh quality—smooth and pleasing rather than harsh—perfect for isolating subjects. The minimum focusing distance of 0.3 meters also enables creative close-up shots, providing versatility in your photography repertoire.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Extremely fast maximum aperture of f/0.95
• Apochromatic design reduces chromatic aberration
• Solid metal build quality enhances durability
• Excellent sharpness, even wide open
• Beautiful bokeh due to 10-blade diaphragm
• Versatile for both portraits and close-up photography

Cons

• Manual focus only may deter some users
• Can be front-heavy on smaller Nikon Z bodies
• Limited wide-angle functionality due to 33mm focal length

Verdict

Overall, the Venus Laowa Argus 33mm F0.95 CF APO is an exceptional lens for photographers who prioritize low-light performance and bokeh quality in their work. While its manual focus and slightly cumbersome handling may present challenges for some, the sharpness and build quality make it a worthy consideration for anyone looking to expand their Nikon Z lens lineup with a specialized, high-performance option.