Venus Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO

Sony E

Review

The Venus Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO is an intriguing lens designed specifically for the Sony E mount, offering photographers the ability to explore the fascinating world of macro photography with impressive detail. This lens is particularly well-suited for nature lovers, product photographers, and anyone who desires to capture minute details in a striking way.

Build Quality and Design

The first thing that strikes you about the Laowa 85mm f/5.6 is its robust build. Constructed primarily from metal, it feels quite solid in hand. The lens features a sleek design with minimalistic aesthetics that are both functional and stylish. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, which enhances the experience of manual focusing. However, it’s important to note that this lens has no autofocus capabilities, which might deter some users who are accustomed to the convenience of autofocus.

Image Quality

In terms of optics, the Laowa 85mm impresses with its sharpness. Images taken with this lens show remarkable detail, especially at 2x magnification where it truly shines. The APO (Apochromatic) design effectively minimizes chromatic aberrations, resulting in images with excellent color accuracy and contrast. Bokeh is creamier than you might expect from a macro lens as well, making it versatile for portraits in addition to close-up shots of insects or flowers.

Macro Capabilities

The standout feature of this lens is its 2x magnification ratio, which is quite significant for macro photography. At such close distances, it allows photographers to capture intricate details that would be impossible with standard lenses. The 85mm focal length also gives sufficient working distance, which is critical for macro photography to avoid affecting your subject, especially live subjects like insects.

Usability and Focus

While the manual focusing can be a delightful experience for seasoned photographers who love control, beginners might find it a bit challenging to use the lens for fast-moving subjects. The lack of autofocus can also be a downside for those wanting to capture fleeting moments. Additionally, the narrow f/5.6 aperture may not perform as well in low-light conditions, requiring a stable shooting setup or consideration of additional lighting.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional image sharpness and detail, especially at 2x magnification.
• Durable metal construction gives a premium feel.
• Minimal chromatic aberration due to apochromatic design.
• Excellent for both macro and portrait photography thanks to pleasing bokeh.

Cons

• No autofocus can be a challenge for some users.
• Limited low-light performance with a maximum aperture of f/5.6.
• May require getting used to for beginners unfamiliar with manual focus.

Verdict

Overall, the Venus Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO is a specialized lens that brings a delightful combination of sharpness, build quality, and exceptional macro capabilities for Sony E mount users. While the lack of autofocus may not appeal to everyone, the unique features and image quality it offers make it a worthwhile investment for avid macro photographers and those looking to explore the intricate details of the world around them. If you're willing to embrace manual focus and work with its limitations, it can be a fantastic tool for your photographic journey.