Venus Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D FF

Sony E

Review

The Venus Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D FF is a remarkable ultra-wide lens designed for full-frame Sony E-mount cameras. Laowa has made a name for itself by producing specialty lenses, and the Zero-D series focuses on minimizing distortion, making this lens particularly interesting for landscape, architecture, and astrophotography enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of this lens is its f/2.8 maximum aperture. While many ultra-wide lenses typically have slower maximum apertures, the f/2.8 in this case allows for more creative flexibility in low-light conditions and when attempting to achieve a shallow depth of field. Additionally, the lens architecture has been optimized to offer a near-zero distortion (hence the Zero-D designation). Photographers will appreciate the straight lines that remain straight, which can be especially valuable for those capturing wide architectural shots or scenes with significant linear elements.

The build quality of the Laowa 10mm f/2.8 is solid and professional. The lens has a robust metal construction, which imparts a sense of durability that makes it appropriate for outdoor use even in challenging environments. You can find well-placed focus and aperture rings that feel smooth and precise during operation, making manual focusing enjoyable and accurate.

When it comes to optical performance, the lens does exceptionally well in terms of sharpness. Images are crisp from the center all the way to the edges, and chromatic aberration is well-controlled, particularly when stopping down slightly. Flare resistance is impressive, and while the lens can exhibit some vignetting at f/2.8, this is commonplace with wide-angle lenses and can be resolved with basic post-processing.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. One is that the lens lacks autofocus, which may deter some photographers who prefer the convenience of AF. Moreover, while the lens is compact considering its wide focal length, it is a bit heavier than comparable lenses, which could be a concern for those who prioritize portability in their gear.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Ultra-wide 10mm focal length with a maximum aperture of f/2.8.
• Near-zero distortion, ideal for architectural and landscape photography.
• Excellent sharpness throughout the frame.
• Sturdy metal construction with smooth focus and aperture rings.
• Good flare resistance and chromatic aberration control.

Cons

• No autofocus feature, which may not suit everyone.
• Heavier than some other ultra-wide options, impacting portability.
• Some vignetting present at maximum aperture.

Verdict

The Venus Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D FF is an exceptional ultra-wide lens for Sony E-mount users who prioritize optical performance and low distortion in their images. While the lack of autofocus may be a drawback for some, the lens excels in delivering sharp, high-quality wide-angle shots. This lens is an excellent choice for landscape, architecture, and creative photographers looking to expand their toolkit with a reliable ultra-wide option.