At the CP+ show in Japan, LAOWA has announced two new lenses. The first is the Laowa 9mm F2.8 Zero-D (zero distortion) wide-angle prime for APS-C mirrorless cameras, and the second is the full-frame 25mm F2.8 2.5-5x Ultra Macro.
The LAOWA 9mm F2.8 Zero-D has been designed specifically for Sony E-mount, Fuji X-mount and Canon EF-M mount APS-C cameras. LAOWA claims that the 9mm is the widest F2.8 lens currently available for APS-C sized sensor cameras.
The construction of the lens features 15 lens elements in 10 groups. LAOWA claims that that the lens achieves close to zero distortion through the use of three low dispersion elements and two aspherical elements. The lens is well built and weighs in at just 215g. It has a 49mm front filter diameter and close focus ability of just 12cm.
The lens will start shipping in April for $499 USD.
The Laowa 25mm F2.8 2.5-5X Ultra Macro is quite a unique lens and looks like a nice, affordable solution for those wanting to get into ultra macro shooting. The 25mm F2.8 has up to 5x magnification and LAOWA has designed the lens so it has a very small and compact lens barrel. This is crucial when shooting with an ultra macro as it allows you to place lights close to your subject. At 5x magnification, the lenses working distance is 14mm from your subject. This is also beneficial for allowing enough space to get a light in.
The Ultra Macro weighs in at 400g. The optical construction of the lens consists of 8 elements in 6 groups. We had a quick play with this lens and it looks to be a great option for getting ultra macro shots without spending a lot of money. I personally think this lens would be great for video shooters looking to capture some very unique shots.
The lens will be available in Canon EF, Nikon F, Pentax K, and Sony E-mount. It will ship in April for just $399 USD.
