Venus Optics is a relatively new player in the US market, but it has already earned a reputation among photographers as a lens maker to watch thanks to unique macro designs, including a 60mm prime with 2:1 magnification and an ultra-wide 15mm with both shift and 1:1 macro support. Its newest lens, the Laowa 105mm f/2 (t/3.2) Smooth Trans Focus ($699), isn't a macro, but rather a short telephoto prime in a classic portrait focal length. It's incredibly sharp and solidly built, and includes an apodization element, which cuts incoming light but smooths out of focus backgrounds, so images have very pleasing bokeh. It doesn't support autofocus, however, which can be a turnoff for some photographers. But those who don't mind using a manual lens will be rewarded by a stellar performer, and one that's worthy of being called Editors' Choice. DesignThe Laowa 105mm ($480.93 at Amazon) is a throwback lens in terms of construction. Its barrel is fully metal, and aperture control and focus are ...
The Venus Optics Laowa 105mm f/2 (t/3.2) Smooth Trans Focus is a manual focus lens that captures images with silky smooth backgrounds and offers dual aperture control for photographers and videographers.
Extremely sharp; Wide aperture design; Dual aperture control rings; Apodization element smooths backgrounds; Available for multiple systems
Dim corners at wide apertures; Manual focus isn't for everyone