Venus Optics Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Tilt-Shift 1x Macro:
Venus Optics / B&H Photo / Amazon / Adorama
The Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Tilt-Shift 1x Macro has been around for a while now, but Optical Limits just published its full review which you can read in full here or check out the exhirpt below:
The shift aspect isn’t all that interesting at this focal length, but the tilt function is pretty awesome although far from being easy to use (as yours truly had to find out as well). If you are into macrophotography, the depth-of-field potential could be very interesting, and the selective depth-of-field at conventional distances can deliver truly baffling effects. And it can function as a normal tele macro lens as well, of course.
The optical performance of the Laowa 100mm f/2.8 Tilt-Shift 1x Macro is very decent. In “normal” mode, it is very sharp with minimal CAs. Image distortions are negligible, and the vignetting is low thanks to the large image circle. The bokeh is also smooth. In full tilt mode, the border bokeh deteriorates, but that’s probably to be expected.
It’s a fully manual lens without electronic coupling. Given the nature of the lens, the lack of autofocus is hardly surprising. …in the right hands it can deliver magic – well … almost.
Pros
- The tilt function, of course
- Great build quality (*)
- It’s sharp
Cons
- (*) except for the tripod mount
- No electronic coupling
- Short focus throw
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