Laowa 12mm T2.9 Zero-D Lens - Canon EF

Standing as the fastest full-frame, non-fisheye 12mm lens on the market, the Laowa 12mm T2.9 is so...

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Wex Photo VideoLaowa 12mm T2.9 Zero-D Cine Lens - Sony FE - Full Frame - Black
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Product Information

Full details

The Laowa 12mm T2.9 Zero-D Cine Lens is designed for cinematographers seeking an ultra-wide field of view with minimal distortion, ideal for landscapes, interiors, and gimbal-mounted shots. Its key benefit is the exceptional sharpness and close-to-zero distortion in a compact, cine-ready package. A minor caveat is that it is currently backordered, with shipping expected in 2-3 weeks.

All features

BrandLaowa

Extended Product Information

FAQs

What camera mount types are available for this lens?

The Laowa 12mm T2.9 Zero-D Cine lens is available in Canon EF, Sony E, and PL mounts. Please ensure you select the correct variant for your camera system.

Can I use autofocus with this lens?

No, this is a manual focus cine lens and does not support autofocus. All focusing adjustments must be made manually using the focus ring.

What is the minimum focusing distance?

The lens can focus as close as 17.78cm (7 inches) from the sensor, or approximately less than 4 inches from the front element.

How does the 'Zero-D' designation benefit my footage?

'Zero-D' signifies that the lens has been engineered to minimize optical distortion to near-zero levels. This means straight lines, particularly at the edges of the frame, remain straight, which is critical for architectural, product, and documentary videography.

What is the maximum aperture of this lens?

The maximum aperture is T2.9, which allows for shooting in lower light conditions and achieving a shallow depth of field for creative control over focus and bokeh.

Does the lens come with a lens hood?

The lens is designed with an integrated petal-type lens hood to help minimize flare and protect the front element. Additionally, the 102mm front diameter is designed to work with industry-standard matte boxes.

What is the weight and size of the lens?

The lens is very compact and lightweight, measuring 87mm (3.4 inches) in length and weighing just 675g (1.49 lbs).

Is this lens suitable for Vista Vision or large format sensors?

Yes, the image circle covers not only full-frame sensors but also larger Vista Vision sensors found on cameras like the RED Monstro and Arri Alexa LF (open-gate), ensuring full coverage without vignetting.

Troubleshooting

Lens does not mount to camera

Ensure you are using the correct mount variant for your camera. Verify the camera mount and lens mount are clean and free of debris. Check if the lens is fully seated and locked according to your camera's mounting procedure.

Image appears soft or out of focus

Confirm that the lens is set to manual focus and that the focus ring is adjusted correctly for the desired subject distance. Ensure the aperture is set appropriately for the lighting conditions and desired depth of field. Check if the lens is properly seated on the camera body.

Excessive flaring or ghosting

Use the included 114mm step-up ring with a compatible matte box to shield the lens from stray light. Ensure lens hoods are utilized where appropriate. Avoid pointing the lens directly at bright light sources when possible.

Focus or aperture rings are stiff

These rings are designed for smooth, professional operation. If they feel excessively stiff, ensure no external pressure is being applied. For persistent issues, contact customer support.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Exceptional wide-angle coverage at 122 degrees.
  • Remarkably low distortion for an ultra-wide lens.
  • Fast T2.9 aperture allows for low-light shooting and creative depth of field.
  • Lightweight and compact, ideal for gimbals and handheld use.
  • Close focusing distance enables unique perspectives.
  • Durable cine-style build with essential features for professional use.

Cons

  • Currently backordered, with a 2-3 week shipping estimate.
  • Manual focus only, requiring precise adjustments.
  • As with most ultra-wide lenses, careful handling is needed to avoid flares.
  • Not compatible with autofocus systems.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

This lens is designed for MILC/SLR cameras with Canon EF mount compatibility. It features a 102mm front diameter which can be stepped up to 114mm using the included adapter ring, allowing compatibility with standard cine matte boxes. The lens has a fixed focal length of 12mm and requires manual focus. Ensure the lens mount on your camera is clean before attaching. To maintain optimal performance, keep the lens elements clean using a microfiber cloth and appropriate lens cleaning solutions. Avoid touching the glass surfaces with your fingers. Store the lens in its protective case when not in use to prevent dust and damage. For precise focus pulls, utilize the 0.8 mod gears on the focus and aperture rings with a follow-focus system. Shims are included for flange calibration if needed.

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