Venus Optics just dropped two fresh additions to their Laowa lens lineup, and honestly, they’re pretty exciting for both filmmakers and photographers. The new Laowa 8-15mm fisheye zooms—one for cinema folks and one for the photography crowd—are already making some noise.
What sets these lenses apart? They deliver wild 180-degree fisheye visuals and let you get surprisingly close to your subject, all while keeping things creative. If you’re into new optical looks and like to experiment, these are definitely worth a look.
Meet the Laowa 8-15mm Fisheye Zoom Lenses
Venus Optics’ latest launch splits into two: the Laowa 8-15mm T2.9 FF Zoom Fisheye Cine Lens for filmmakers, and the Laowa 8-15mm f/2.8 FF Zoom Fisheye Lens for photographers. The cine version sits at $1,399, while the photography model, available for Canon RF, is a more wallet-friendly $699.
They’re aimed at different creative types, but both share the same core features—so you’re not missing out either way.
Fisheye Optics with Versatile Perspectives
These lenses really shine when it comes to perspective. At 8mm, you get that jaw-dropping 180-degree angle of view, which is honestly perfect for landscapes, interiors, or just getting weird with your compositions.
Zoom in to 15mm and the look shifts into a full-frame rectangular fisheye. That opens up even more creative directions, which is pretty cool if you like to experiment with your shots.
If you’re the type who likes to push visual boundaries, this adjustable perspective is a real treat.
Close-Up Capabilities and Advanced Optics
Fisheye lenses are already known for their creative flair, but Venus Optics went further—they’ve made sure you can get super close. With a minimum focusing distance of just 6.3 inches, you can snag dramatic close-ups while keeping that classic fisheye look.
Pair that with 0.23x maximum magnification, and you’ve got a lens that’s actually fun for macro-style work, whether you’re shooting stills or video.
Technical Precision for Professionals
Each version is tailored to its audience. The cinema version uses T-stops, which filmmakers appreciate for consistent light transmission.
The photography version sticks with the familiar f-stop system, so photographers can jump right in without a learning curve.
The Value Proposition
The $699 photography model is a steal if you want to dip your toes into fisheye creativity without breaking the bank. On the flip side, the $1,399 cinema lens feels about right considering its pro-level features.
If you’re looking to expand your kit with something a bit off the beaten path, these lenses are a smart choice.
Expanding the Laowa Legacy
Venus Optics has been quietly building a name for themselves in the specialty lens world, especially with their unique wide-angles. Dropping these new fisheye zooms just adds to their reputation as a brand that’s not afraid to go beyond the basics.
Why Choose a Fisheye Lens?
If you haven’t tried fisheye photography yet, here’s what you might be missing:
- Wide-angle allure: Great for grabbing sweeping scenes or squeezing into tight spaces with loads of detail.
- Creative distortion: That classic fisheye curve adds a bold, artistic twist to your shots.
- Close-up potential: Lets you frame stuff in ways that really stand out.
The Laowa 8-15mm fisheye zooms blend these perks with a user-focused design. They’re a solid pick for anyone—from curious enthusiasts to working pros—who wants a little more fun and flexibility in their bag.
The Bottom Line
Are you a cinematographer craving precise, flexible lenses? Or maybe you’re a photographer itching to add some punchy, eye-catching shots to your portfolio.
Either way, these Laowa lenses seem like they’re worth a closer look. Venus Optics really gets what users want, and they keep rolling out creative, high-performance gear that doesn’t break the bank.
The new Laowa 8-15mm fisheye lenses aren’t just tools—they’re more like an open invitation to push your camera and your imagination further.
Here is the source article for this story: Venus Optics Releases 2 Laowa 8-15mm Fisheye Zooms