The New Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D FF Lens

credits: Venus Optic

Venus Optics has just announced a lighter, more compact version of one of its most popular ultra-wides: the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D FF. This new model keeps the same extreme 122-degree field of view and rectilinear “Zero-D” design, meaning it stays distortion-free without the usual fisheye warp. What’s new this time around is the addition of autofocus (at least for Sony E and Nikon Z mounts) making this Laowa’s second-ever AF lens. The Canon RF and L-mount versions are still manual focus, but all versions share the same optical formula and build.

The new Lite version weighs 377 grams (0.83 lb), making it a great fit for travel, vlogging, and any lightweight kit. You still get the fast f/2.8 aperture, a very usable minimum focusing distance of 14cm, and a built-in 72mm filter thread. Laowa says this version offers better corner-to-corner sharpness and less chromatic aberration compared to the original 12mm f/2.8, a welcome improvement for anyone doing detailed architectural or astrophotography work.

Photographers can choose between two aperture blade designs: a 5-blade version that produces bold 10-point sunstars when stopped down, or a 14-blade version for smoother bokeh. The latter, though, is manual focus only. Regardless of mount or focus type, all versions are priced at $699.

You can see full details and sample shots on Venus Optic’s website here