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Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro APO Lens - Canon EF
Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro APO Lens - Canon EF
Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro APO Lens - Canon EF
Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro APO Lens - Canon EF
Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro APO Lens - Canon EF
Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro APO Lens - Canon EF
Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro APO Lens - Canon EF
Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro APO Lens - Canon EF
Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro APO Lens - Canon EF

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro APO Lens - Canon EF

Characterized by its close-focusing capabilities and apochromatic design, the Canon EF-mount Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO from Venus Optics is a unique and versatile short-telephoto prime. Featuring a pair of low dispersion elements, color fringing and chromatic aberrations have been virtually eliminated throughout the focusing range in order to achieve high clarity and color accuracy. The lens's manual focus design also suits its macro capabilities, which permit working with subjects as close as 2:1 with a minimum focusing distance of 9.7" Additionally, a 9-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality. Telephoto prime is designed for full-frame Canon EF-mount cameras, however can also be used with APS-C models where it will provide a 160mm equivalent focal length. Featuring an apochromatic designation, this lens uses a pair of low dispersion elements to effectively eliminate chromatic aberrations and color fringing for greater clarity and accurate rendering. Greater-than-life-size 2:1 maximum magnification pairs with a 9.7" minimum focusing distance to suit working with close-up subjects. Manual focus design, along with focus distance and depth of field scales, aid in precise focusing control. A 9-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality. This Canon EF version features a dedicated aperture control motor, along with an integrated CPU chip, to permit automated aperture adjustment via the camera body as well as the ability to transfer Exif data from the lens to the camera.

Characterized by its close-focusing capabilities and apochromatic design, the Canon EF-mount Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO from Venus Optics is a unique and versatile short-telephoto prime. Featuring a pair of low dispersion elements, color fringing and chromatic aberrations have been virtually eliminated throughout the focusing range in order to achieve high clarity and color accuracy. The lens's manual focus design also suits its macro capabilities, which permit working with subjects as close as 2:1 with a minimum focusing distance of 9.7" Additionally, a 9-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality. Telephoto prime is designed for full-frame Canon EF-mount cameras, however can also be used with APS-C models where it will provide a 160mm equivalent focal length. Featuring an apochromatic designation, this lens uses a pair of low dispersion elements to effectively eliminate chromatic aberrations and color fringing for greater clarity and accurate rendering. Greater-than-life-size 2:1 maximum magnification pairs with a 9.7" minimum focusing distance to suit working with close-up subjects. Manual focus design, along with focus distance and depth of field scales, aid in precise focusing control. A 9-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality. This Canon EF version features a dedicated aperture control motor, along with an integrated CPU chip, to permit automated aperture adjustment via the camera body as well as the ability to transfer Exif data from the lens to the camera.

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro APO Lens - Canon EF

Characterized by its close-focusing capabilities and apochromatic design, the Canon EF-mount Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO from Venus Optics is a unique and versatile short-telephoto prime. Featuring a pair of low dispersion elements, color fringing and chromatic aberrations have been virtually eliminated throughout the focusing range in order to achieve high clarity and color accuracy. The lens's manual focus design also suits its macro capabilities, which permit working with subjects as close as 2:1 with a minimum focusing distance of 9.7" Additionally, a 9-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality. Telephoto prime is designed for full-frame Canon EF-mount cameras, however can also be used with APS-C models where it will provide a 160mm equivalent focal length. Featuring an apochromatic designation, this lens uses a pair of low dispersion elements to effectively eliminate chromatic aberrations and color fringing for greater clarity and accurate rendering. Greater-than-life-size 2:1 maximum magnification pairs with a 9.7" minimum focusing distance to suit working with close-up subjects. Manual focus design, along with focus distance and depth of field scales, aid in precise focusing control. A 9-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality. This Canon EF version features a dedicated aperture control motor, along with an integrated CPU chip, to permit automated aperture adjustment via the camera body as well as the ability to transfer Exif data from the lens to the camera.

Characterized by its close-focusing capabilities and apochromatic design, the Canon EF-mount Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO from Venus Optics is a unique and versatile short-telephoto prime. Featuring a pair of low dispersion elements, color fringing and chromatic aberrations have been virtually eliminated throughout the focusing range in order to achieve high clarity and color accuracy. The lens's manual focus design also suits its macro capabilities, which permit working with subjects as close as 2:1 with a minimum focusing distance of 9.7" Additionally, a 9-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality. Telephoto prime is designed for full-frame Canon EF-mount cameras, however can also be used with APS-C models where it will provide a 160mm equivalent focal length. Featuring an apochromatic designation, this lens uses a pair of low dispersion elements to effectively eliminate chromatic aberrations and color fringing for greater clarity and accurate rendering. Greater-than-life-size 2:1 maximum magnification pairs with a 9.7" minimum focusing distance to suit working with close-up subjects. Manual focus design, along with focus distance and depth of field scales, aid in precise focusing control. A 9-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality. This Canon EF version features a dedicated aperture control motor, along with an integrated CPU chip, to permit automated aperture adjustment via the camera body as well as the ability to transfer Exif data from the lens to the camera.

Price comparison

Price data powered by pricesAPI.io

Last updated at 07/23/2026 01:50:16

Amazon.com.au

$775.00

Venus Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2:1 Ultra Macro APO Full Frame Lens for Nikon F Mount Cameras

Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!

Amazon.com.au

$787.41

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2:1 Ultra Macro APO Lens for Canon EF

Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!

Amazon.com.au

$980.42

Venus Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens Compatible with CAN0N EF Mount Camera (Manual Aperture)

Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!

Laowa by Venus Optics

$642.25

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO Canon EF (Auto Aperture)

Free delivery

cccwarehouse.com.au

$775.00

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens Sony FE Mount Venus Optics

Delivery $30.90

Camera-Warehouse

$782.80

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2:1 Ultra Macro APO - Canon RF Lens

Free delivery between 27 July – 3 Aug

Camera-Warehouse

$892.05

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2:1 Ultra Macro APO - Canon EF Lens

Free delivery between 27 July – 3 Aug

Onestop Digital

$796.43

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens for Canon EF (Black) by Onestop Digital

Free delivery between 30 July – 4 Aug

Onestop Digital

$850.08

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens for Nikon F (Black) by Onestop Digital

Free delivery between 30 July – 4 Aug

Onestop Digital

$850.08

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens for Sony E (Black) by Onestop Digital

Free delivery between 30 July – 4 Aug

Price history

Price history

Reviews

Amazing macro lens!!
14 May 2022Michael

originally posted on bhphotovideo.com

I've been shooting macro since 2009 and using a great Sigma 150mm 2.8 Macro lens and have produced some amazing images.I purchased the Laowa 100mm 2.8 Macro 2x after watching and reading so many great reviews about the lens.Well...I have to say that this lens is SHARP and produces beautiful images with good contrast and colors on my Canon EOS body.If you are into macro photography....Get yourself one of theseVenus Optics Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens...You won't regret it!!This lens works for portraits and many other types of images also.I will note that the lens has a learning curve for beginners but is easily learned and very usable if effort is given.Great and beautifully sharp macro lens!!

As Expected - A Great Macro Lens
5 June 2021Tony

originally posted on bhphotovideo.com

I was looking for a Z mount lens for my Z50 as my Tamron 90mm 1:1 was not a G2 model, and didn't work consistantly with the mirrorless body. After many reviews and analysis on the subjects I try to shoot with a macro lens, and my current skillset, I purchased one of these Venus Laowa 100mm 2:1.I mounted it via the Venus mount collar sold as an option. The collar works great if attached to the correct position on the lens. Althought some of the reviews on that device are negative, I found it as advisertised.The first day I had the lens I shot some test subjects and discovered quickly that a macro focus rail would be a HUGE help with this lens. I recommend ordering one with this lens should you purchase it.I ordered one, and put the whole system together ... MoreI was looking for a Z mount lens for my Z50 as my Tamron 90mm 1:1 was not a G2 model, and didn't work consistantly with the mirrorless body. After many reviews and analysis on the subjects I try to shoot with a macro lens, and my current skillset, I purchased one of these Venus Laowa 100mm 2:1.I mounted it via the Venus mount collar sold as an option. The collar works great if attached to the correct position on the lens. Althought some of the reviews on that device are negative, I found it as advisertised.The first day I had the lens I shot some test subjects and discovered quickly that a macro focus rail would be a HUGE help with this lens. I recommend ordering one with this lens should you purchase it.I ordered one, and put the whole system together today.Attached is a 2:1 shot of George Washington's eye on a $1 bill. I didnt focus stack this image - obviously - but I think the quick work demostrates what this lens can do.As stated some macro experience will make this lens more enjoyable, but it seems to be a nice lens to add to the bag especially given the price.

Excellent optics
1 July 2022PATRICK

originally posted on adorama.com

I've ended up owning both the automatic aperture and manual aperture versions of this lens. Both are optically excellent and I'm enjoying the 2:1 capability in a versatile lens that is easy to use. I've been using this lens primarily for plant photographs, ranging from pictures of a whole shrub to handheld focus stacking for very small flowers & other plant parts.Contrary to my expectation, though, I find myself preferring the manual aperture lens. This is primarily because the automatic aperture is not particularly accurate, yielding slightly different exposures in a focus stack. I can work around this, but it's annoying. The manual aperture, on the other hand, turns out to be easier to use than I expected. Figuring out where the focus plane is when the lens is ... MoreI've ended up owning both the automatic aperture and manual aperture versions of this lens. Both are optically excellent and I'm enjoying the 2:1 capability in a versatile lens that is easy to use. I've been using this lens primarily for plant photographs, ranging from pictures of a whole shrub to handheld focus stacking for very small flowers & other plant parts.Contrary to my expectation, though, I find myself preferring the manual aperture lens. This is primarily because the automatic aperture is not particularly accurate, yielding slightly different exposures in a focus stack. I can work around this, but it's annoying. The manual aperture, on the other hand, turns out to be easier to use than I expected. Figuring out where the focus plane is when the lens is stopped down takes a bit more care and practice if (like me) you're only used to focusing with lenses wide open. I've screwed up a couple of pictures that way, but after a few days with the lens I think I've gotten over the learning curve. I do wish there was a tactile indication of where you are in the f-stop range, though.

Specification

Focal Length100mm
Maximum Aperturef/2.8
Minimum Aperturef/22
Lens MountCanon EF
Lens Format CoverageFull-Frame

Price comparison

Updated 3 days ago
Amazon.com.au

$775.00

Venus Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2:1 Ultra Macro APO Full Frame Lens for Nikon F Mount Cameras

Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!

Amazon.com.au

$787.41

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2:1 Ultra Macro APO Lens for Canon EF

Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!

Amazon.com.au

$980.42

Venus Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens Compatible with CAN0N EF Mount Camera (Manual Aperture)

Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!

Laowa by Venus Optics

$642.25

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO Canon EF (Auto Aperture)

Free delivery

cccwarehouse.com.au

$775.00

Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens Sony FE Mount Venus Optics

Delivery $30.90

Price history

Price history

Reviews

Amazing macro lens!!
14 May 2022

I've been shooting macro since 2009 and using a great Sigma 150mm 2.8 Macro lens and have produced some amazing images.I purchased the Laowa 100mm 2.8 Macro 2x after watching and reading so many great reviews about the lens.Well...I have to say that this lens is SHARP and produces beautiful images with good contrast and colors on my Canon EOS body.If you are into macro photography....Get yourself one of theseVenus Optics Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens...You won't regret it!!This lens works for portraits and many other types of images also.I will note that the lens has a learning curve for beginners but is easily learned and very usable if effort is given.Great and beautifully sharp macro lens!!

Michael originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
As Expected - A Great Macro Lens
5 June 2021

I was looking for a Z mount lens for my Z50 as my Tamron 90mm 1:1 was not a G2 model, and didn't work consistantly with the mirrorless body. After many reviews and analysis on the subjects I try to shoot with a macro lens, and my current skillset, I purchased one of these Venus Laowa 100mm 2:1.I mounted it via the Venus mount collar sold as an option. The collar works great if attached to the correct position on the lens. Althought some of the reviews on that device are negative, I found it as advisertised.The first day I had the lens I shot some test subjects and discovered quickly that a macro focus rail would be a HUGE help with this lens. I recommend ordering one with this lens should you purchase it.I ordered one, and put the whole system together ... MoreI was looking for a Z mount lens for my Z50 as my Tamron 90mm 1:1 was not a G2 model, and didn't work consistantly with the mirrorless body. After many reviews and analysis on the subjects I try to shoot with a macro lens, and my current skillset, I purchased one of these Venus Laowa 100mm 2:1.I mounted it via the Venus mount collar sold as an option. The collar works great if attached to the correct position on the lens. Althought some of the reviews on that device are negative, I found it as advisertised.The first day I had the lens I shot some test subjects and discovered quickly that a macro focus rail would be a HUGE help with this lens. I recommend ordering one with this lens should you purchase it.I ordered one, and put the whole system together today.Attached is a 2:1 shot of George Washington's eye on a $1 bill. I didnt focus stack this image - obviously - but I think the quick work demostrates what this lens can do.As stated some macro experience will make this lens more enjoyable, but it seems to be a nice lens to add to the bag especially given the price.

Tony originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
Excellent optics
1 July 2022

I've ended up owning both the automatic aperture and manual aperture versions of this lens. Both are optically excellent and I'm enjoying the 2:1 capability in a versatile lens that is easy to use. I've been using this lens primarily for plant photographs, ranging from pictures of a whole shrub to handheld focus stacking for very small flowers & other plant parts.Contrary to my expectation, though, I find myself preferring the manual aperture lens. This is primarily because the automatic aperture is not particularly accurate, yielding slightly different exposures in a focus stack. I can work around this, but it's annoying. The manual aperture, on the other hand, turns out to be easier to use than I expected. Figuring out where the focus plane is when the lens is ... MoreI've ended up owning both the automatic aperture and manual aperture versions of this lens. Both are optically excellent and I'm enjoying the 2:1 capability in a versatile lens that is easy to use. I've been using this lens primarily for plant photographs, ranging from pictures of a whole shrub to handheld focus stacking for very small flowers & other plant parts.Contrary to my expectation, though, I find myself preferring the manual aperture lens. This is primarily because the automatic aperture is not particularly accurate, yielding slightly different exposures in a focus stack. I can work around this, but it's annoying. The manual aperture, on the other hand, turns out to be easier to use than I expected. Figuring out where the focus plane is when the lens is stopped down takes a bit more care and practice if (like me) you're only used to focusing with lenses wide open. I've screwed up a couple of pictures that way, but after a few days with the lens I think I've gotten over the learning curve. I do wish there was a tactile indication of where you are in the f-stop range, though.

PATRICK originally posted on adorama.com
Excellent optics; automatic aperture is inaccurate
1 July 2022

I've ended up owning both the automatic aperture and manual aperture versions of this lens. Both are optically excellent and I'm enjoying the 2:1 capability in a versatile lens that is easy to use. I've been using this lens primarily for plant photographs, ranging from pictures of a whole shrub to handheld focus stacking for very small flowers & other plant parts.Contrary to my expectation, though, I find myself preferring the manual aperture lens. This is primarily because the automatic aperture is not particularly accurate. For single exposures, I don't get exactly the aperture I intended, but I also don't care whether a picture ends up being f9.2 or f10, or whatever the discrepancy ends up being. For me, this is not quite ideal in principle but irrelevant in ... MoreI've ended up owning both the automatic aperture and manual aperture versions of this lens. Both are optically excellent and I'm enjoying the 2:1 capability in a versatile lens that is easy to use. I've been using this lens primarily for plant photographs, ranging from pictures of a whole shrub to handheld focus stacking for very small flowers & other plant parts.Contrary to my expectation, though, I find myself preferring the manual aperture lens. This is primarily because the automatic aperture is not particularly accurate. For single exposures, I don't get exactly the aperture I intended, but I also don't care whether a picture ends up being f9.2 or f10, or whatever the discrepancy ends up being. For me, this is not quite ideal in principle but irrelevant in practice. For focus stacking, though, it means that the pictures in the stack are all slightly differently exposed. I've been manually adjusting the exposures to match before running the stack through Zerene Stacker. This seems to work well enough, but it's an extra tedious step for a kind of photography that is already on the tedious end of the spectrum.

PATRICK originally posted on adorama.com
Great Lens with Some Drawbacks
19 July 2020

I sold my Sony 90mm macro G lens in order to get Laowa macro lenses including the 100mm 2X Ultra Macro, the main reason being the 2:1 magnification ratio. This is certainly a great advantage. The optical quality is great in the macro range and is in the same class as the Sony one it has replaced. I haven't used it outside the macro range to testify on that (I was using the Sony outside the macro range and it was still an amazing lens regarding IQ). Manual focus isn't an issue in the macro range. I was using the Sony one in manual mode anyway as AF is pretty much unusable for macro photography. The built quality is great, all metal construction and solid. Unfortunately, the lens is very long, being designed for DSLR's and being adapted to mirrorless by adding a ... MoreI sold my Sony 90mm macro G lens in order to get Laowa macro lenses including the 100mm 2X Ultra Macro, the main reason being the 2:1 magnification ratio. This is certainly a great advantage. The optical quality is great in the macro range and is in the same class as the Sony one it has replaced. I haven't used it outside the macro range to testify on that (I was using the Sony outside the macro range and it was still an amazing lens regarding IQ). Manual focus isn't an issue in the macro range. I was using the Sony one in manual mode anyway as AF is pretty much unusable for macro photography. The built quality is great, all metal construction and solid. Unfortunately, the lens is very long, being designed for DSLR's and being adapted to mirrorless by adding a built-in lens mount adapter. However, my main gripe is the loss in working distance compared to the Sony one. The Sony lens is has about 130mm working distance at 1:1. The Laowa only has 93mm working distance at 1:1 (and 70mm at 2:1). This makes it harder to photography insects by intimidating them. I wished the lens had been designed from the ground up for the mirrorless systems with short flange distance and possibly with bigger working distance. This is still possible without even changing the optical design of the lens because the lens optical assembly extends as it focuses on closer objects. However, the Laowa engineers decided to insert the whole optical assembly inside a long metal tube so probably to avoid to be forced to implement weather sealing means to avoid dust/water, etc. entering the lens construction. Then they have included a free UV filter to be permanently attached to the lens to better protect it from environmental impacts. It is because of this long tube encircling the lens that the working distance has been compromised. Without it, the lens would have had much better working distance at 1:1 magnification.This is a great lens which is less than half the price of the Sony lens though I am planing to try some long focal length macro lenses (in the 180-200mm range) using adapters on my Sony system for their great advantage of much longer working distance. At the end, I can then decide which one is a more practical tool.In the second picture, the three Laowa lenses I own are seen beside each other. The middle one being the Laowa 25mm 2.5-5x ultra macro lens is much smaller in comparison to the Laowa 100mm lens.

Ramin originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
Great for single shot
22 July 2021

While I completely understand the section of the market this lens falls in, I must saw I am impressed for the price which is why it gets 4 instead of 3 stars.I bought this lens for Macro work because Nikon did not have a solid Macro lens, even with the FTZ. Sharpness, hands down this lens out performs the old F Mount version. Where this lends fails is in stacked focal lengths. In Macro it is neigh impossible to get sharp images front to back because of shallow depth of field, you must used stacked images to obtain this. The Laowa 105 has massive focus breathing issues which pretty much makes stacking focus nearly impossible.Other than that the lens works really well. It's not going to breath the new Nikon in any category, the color rendering, smooth and precise ... MoreWhile I completely understand the section of the market this lens falls in, I must saw I am impressed for the price which is why it gets 4 instead of 3 stars.I bought this lens for Macro work because Nikon did not have a solid Macro lens, even with the FTZ. Sharpness, hands down this lens out performs the old F Mount version. Where this lends fails is in stacked focal lengths. In Macro it is neigh impossible to get sharp images front to back because of shallow depth of field, you must used stacked images to obtain this. The Laowa 105 has massive focus breathing issues which pretty much makes stacking focus nearly impossible.Other than that the lens works really well. It's not going to breath the new Nikon in any category, the color rendering, smooth and precise auto focus, absence of focus breathing is simply flawless on the new Z Mount 105. However, this lens is half the price of that masterpiece and gives you 2x Macros. It still has a place in the market and will perform well for what it is... A budget 100 Macro.

Jack originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
High quality construction and excellent image quality.
27 December 2021

Excellent clarity through the entire range. One reviewer complained that the barrel is exposed while operating the zoom. However, the lens I received came with a Laowa MC UV filter attached which I have found functions well to keep dust and jumpy subjects out of the lens without reducing image quality.The length of the lens makes subject illumination a little tricky, especially if you are using extension tubes. I am using a Meike MK-MT24 flash set attached to FotoPro DMM-903s arms. That set up allows me to easily illuminate subjects regardless of how close they are to the end of the lens. See attached images for the setup and some example photographs taken with that setup on a Nikon Z6 ii.All the images are straight out the camera with no focus stacking or other ... MoreExcellent clarity through the entire range. One reviewer complained that the barrel is exposed while operating the zoom. However, the lens I received came with a Laowa MC UV filter attached which I have found functions well to keep dust and jumpy subjects out of the lens without reducing image quality.The length of the lens makes subject illumination a little tricky, especially if you are using extension tubes. I am using a Meike MK-MT24 flash set attached to FotoPro DMM-903s arms. That set up allows me to easily illuminate subjects regardless of how close they are to the end of the lens. See attached images for the setup and some example photographs taken with that setup on a Nikon Z6 ii.All the images are straight out the camera with no focus stacking or other processing. The salt shaker is at 2:1, the springtail on a fungus is at 2:1 with Meike MK-Z-AF1 11mm and 18mm Extension Tubes, and the dried rose is at about 0.75:1

Alan originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
Outstanding sharpness
25 June 2021

For 2 years now I have worked on improving my equipment and techniques for high magnification macro photos of insects in the field, practising handheld focus bracketing. The goal is to use focus stacking for the final image (Helicon Focus). I have used several macro lenses (Canon 60 mm, Canon MP-E 65 mm, Tamron 90mm, ..). Somehow I was kind of hitting a wall in the sharpness of the end result. For the last 2 weeks I have switched to the Laowa 100 mm APO: a world of difference. The correction of chromatic aberration is the final key to obtain an optimal resolving power, especially when taking photos on a light table for a "Meet your neighbours" style. The same is true in landscape photography with naked branches against a white sky, because with backlighting the ... MoreFor 2 years now I have worked on improving my equipment and techniques for high magnification macro photos of insects in the field, practising handheld focus bracketing. The goal is to use focus stacking for the final image (Helicon Focus). I have used several macro lenses (Canon 60 mm, Canon MP-E 65 mm, Tamron 90mm, ..). Somehow I was kind of hitting a wall in the sharpness of the end result. For the last 2 weeks I have switched to the Laowa 100 mm APO: a world of difference. The correction of chromatic aberration is the final key to obtain an optimal resolving power, especially when taking photos on a light table for a "Meet your neighbours" style. The same is true in landscape photography with naked branches against a white sky, because with backlighting the fringe effect is maximal. I process my C-RAW photos with Dxo Photolab 4, but in my preset I don't even use purple fringe control anymore. I feel that I now get the full potential of the Canon 90D sensor, which has a very small pixel pitch.This is a manual lens, but I find that the choices made by Laowa are very wise. I am fortunate to have the only model of this lens with a chip (diaphragm control, and EXIF data). The course of the focus barrel is exceptionally short and rather stiff, and it is a big bonus for handheld focus bracketing: it allows me to slowly turn the barrel and remain centered on the subject while launching a burst of high-speed shots (the Kuangren Twin head flash at 1/128 or 1/64 of the power can keep the pace). The fact that the lens provides twice the 1:1 ratio is the final bonus.I recently joined INaturalist, so if you wish you can check the result of the switch from the Tamron 90 mm to the Laowa 100 mm APO on June 16, 2021. I now can consistently see the ommatidia in the compound eyes of subjects. Link: https://www.inaturalist.org/observations?place_id=any&subview=table&user_id=cback&verifiable=anyIf you click on a photo, the "I" icon will display all the EXIF info of the picture. These are low-res photos but I think that any one would easily see the difference. In any case, I join a photo of higher resolution as an example.In conclusion, there are many excellent macro lenses, but the Laowa 100 mm APO is exceptional.

Christian originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
Rating is for lens and NOT Adorama!
10 March 2023

I would like to first say that I had a pretty awful first and last experience with Adorama. I received a lens that was open box and didn't even have the lens cover on. The lens also made a rattling noise inside when I rotated it however this appears to be normal on the F mount version, I'm assuming due to the aperture coupling which works great btw. I promptly returned the lens to Adorama since it was clearly an open box product and I was also concerned at the time that it was defective due to the noise. They received the return on 2/23, however I did not receive my refund until 3/6 or 11 days, and nobody at customer service could tell me why because they're a call center in India. I ordered directly from the manufacturer for a replacement and had it within 48 hours ... MoreI would like to first say that I had a pretty awful first and last experience with Adorama. I received a lens that was open box and didn't even have the lens cover on. The lens also made a rattling noise inside when I rotated it however this appears to be normal on the F mount version, I'm assuming due to the aperture coupling which works great btw. I promptly returned the lens to Adorama since it was clearly an open box product and I was also concerned at the time that it was defective due to the noise. They received the return on 2/23, however I did not receive my refund until 3/6 or 11 days, and nobody at customer service could tell me why because they're a call center in India. I ordered directly from the manufacturer for a replacement and had it within 48 hours with proper, original packaging and even saved nearly $90 between tax and a 10% discount I found on YT. I highly recommend this lens, I just cannot recommend you buy it from Adorama after my experience.Now that I've described my very poor experience with Adorama I'll move on to the lens review. I have the Nikon F mount version and the aperture coupling is great, it keeps your aperture open while focusing and also lets your camera meter for proper exposure once set up in the menu assuming your camera is compatible. It's extremely sharp for everything I've tried it on and I haven't found much about it that I don't like. I do wish that the indexing mark to line the lens up to mount on the camera was on the side of the lens rather than the face of the mount but that's just working at finding something to complain about. I wouldn't think twice about recommending this lens to anyone with an interest in macro photography and I think it's amazing, especially considering the cost.

James originally posted on adorama.com
Sharp, Well-Built Lens - Great Value
6 May 2022

The Laowa 100mm, combined with the Sony A7IV, represents a great macro solution. This lens is built like a tank. The ability to zoom in at 2:1 offers an advantage over most other macro lens offerings. I found the Laowa to be incredibly sharp from f/2.8 - f/11. Even at f/16, diffraction barely impacts photo quality.The Focus Peaking and Zoom features on the Sony A7IV work well with the Laowa to ensure your subject is in focus.Macro photography with a manual-focus lens such as the Laowa does require some patience and practice, however, so expect to spend some time refining your technique.The only improvements I would suggest would be: 1. A slightly firmer clicking mechanism for the aperture ring and, 2. Changing the gear ratio of the manual focus ring to provide ... MoreThe Laowa 100mm, combined with the Sony A7IV, represents a great macro solution. This lens is built like a tank. The ability to zoom in at 2:1 offers an advantage over most other macro lens offerings. I found the Laowa to be incredibly sharp from f/2.8 - f/11. Even at f/16, diffraction barely impacts photo quality.The Focus Peaking and Zoom features on the Sony A7IV work well with the Laowa to ensure your subject is in focus.Macro photography with a manual-focus lens such as the Laowa does require some patience and practice, however, so expect to spend some time refining your technique.The only improvements I would suggest would be: 1. A slightly firmer clicking mechanism for the aperture ring and, 2. Changing the gear ratio of the manual focus ring to provide more incremental adjustments.

Robert originally posted on bhphotovideo.com

Specification

Focal Length100mm
Maximum Aperturef/2.8
Minimum Aperturef/22
Lens MountCanon EF
Lens Format CoverageFull-Frame