Laowa Unveils 6mm f/2 for Still Photography

Venus Optics has announced a still photography version of their previously released 6 mm T2.1 cine lens. The new 6 mm f/2 Zero-D MFT now features electrical contacts which allow users to control the aperture through the camera body and have EXIF being recorded. This 188 g lens can capture a 121.9° angle-of-view with close-to-zero distortion.

Laowa claims that the 6 mm f/2 Zero-D is the widest rectilinear option in the MFT market. The lens provides a minimum focussing distance of

9 cm, which allows photographers to get very close to the subject for dramatic effect. It is also favourable in creating shallower depth-of-field when shooting close-ups, and that helps create a stronger bokeh effect. The lens is constructed with 13 elements in 9 groups including 2 aspherical glasses, keeping distortion to the minimum even with such an ultra-wide angle.

The Laowa 6mm f/2 MFT is assembled with a CPU chip and motor. The focus magnifier will be triggered for easier focusing when rotating the focus ring. It also allows the adjustment of the aperture via the camera body. Moreover, the metadata will be stored on EXIF. The lens comes with a 58mm filter thread. The lens has five aperture blades which can generate 10-point Sunstars by stopping down the aperture.

The Laowa 6 mm f/2 Zero-D MFT are currently available to purchase via Venus Optics official website and authorised dealers. The lens retails in the US for $499. An Indian price has not been announced yet.