Venus Optics Laowa 25mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro Overview

Dedicated to extreme close-up imaging, the Sony E-mount Laowa 25mm f/2.8 2.5-5X Ultra Macro from Venus Optics is a specialized macro lens for photographing subjects at magnifications greater than life-size. Operating within a 2.5:1 to 5:1 range, this lens has a minimum focus distance of just 6.8" at the 5:1 magnification along with a comfortable 1.6" working distance. This range is benefitted by the wide-angle focal length, too, in order to achieve greater depth of field compared to long focal length macro lenses. Complementing the close-up capabilities, the optical design incorporates one extra-low dispersion element to reduce color fringing and chromatic aberrations for a high degree of clarity. Additionally, distinguishing itself from other macro lenses, this 25mm f/2.8 is characterized by its notably sleek and lightweight design for easier handling and more room to work with artificial lighting.

Prime 25mm f/2.8 is designed for full-frame Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras but can also be used with APS-C models where it provides a 37.5mm equivalent focal length.

Specifically developed for macro photography, this lens is designed for use within a 2.5:1 to 5:1 magnification range for producing greater-than-life-size imagery. This lens does not offer infinity focus.

When at 5:1 magnification, the lens has a minimum focusing distance of 6.8" along with a working distance of 1.6", which affords sufficient room for illuminating your subject. At the 2.5:1 position, a minimum focusing distance of 9.2" is possible along with a working distance of 1.8".

Wide-angle design benefits the high magnification design by providing greater depth of field compared to telephoto or long lens designs.

Manual focus operation for precise control over focusing distance when working with close-up subjects.

One extra-low dispersion element greatly reduces chromatic aberrations and color fringing for improved clarity and color accuracy.

Eight-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing out of focus quality when using shallow depth of field.

Especially slim and lightweight physical design is easier to use handheld and offers more room for illuminating close-up subjects.