Suitable for both Large format & Super35 cameras
© Shao Wei
The image circle allows cinematographers to use this with full frame sensors (Size = 43.14mm) and also fill the Vista Vision sensors on RED Monstro and the sensor on Arri Alexa LF (Size @ open-gate = 44.7mm) fully. The lens is also ideal for Super35-sized camera owners with the ultra-wide 17mm equivalent field of view and its future-proof decision when cinematographers need to upgrade to large format cameras.
Screengrabs © Alan Caudillo
Super compact & lightweight
This 12mm lens is extremely compact and lightweight despite of the extreme specifications. It measures 3.4” (87mm) long and weighs less than 1.5 lb (675g). It can be easily fitted onto any sorts of stabilizations system including handheld gimbals.
© Film Jams
Close-to-zero distortion
The optical distortion of ultra-wide angle lens will never be a nightmare for DoP. The distortion rate of good wide angle lenses in the market ranges from 2-4%. Venus Optics, however, are able to compress the distortion to a close-to-zero level. In fact, the ‘Zero-D’ claim had been validated by many existing Laowa lenses owners from all around the world.
Extremely close focusing distance
The lens able to focus at an extremely close focusing distance. It can focus anywhere from 7” away from sensor (<4” from front element) all the way to infinity. No diopter will be needed in this case. Wide angle lenses usually create a ‘flat’ image with very deep DOF but with this close focusing ability and a fast t-stop, Laowa 12mm is able to create some unique wide & shallow DOF look with pleasing bokeh.
Robust and professional cinema housing
Designed with standard 0.8 mod gears on both aperture and focusing rings for easy installation of a follow-focus system. An extended 270° smooth focus throw is designed for accurate focus pulling. The entire enclosure of the lens is made from aluminum alloy.
A 114mm step-ring is included in the package to expand the front diameter to fit with industry sized matte box. Venus Optics have tested with a number of matte boxes in the market and it is still free of vignetting on VV sensor with the matte box installed.
© Film Jams
Robust and professional cinema housing
The lens comes with three different variants, PL, EF and E mount (Not inter-changeable). Shims with different thickness is also included for users to do flange calibration.
The complimentary watertight and crushproof Pelican hard case protects the the lenses from damage during travel.
Reviews & Samples
Screengrabs © Alan Caudillo
Review by Film Jams
Review by CVP
Shooting with the still version of Laowa 12mm © Parker Walbeck
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