Venus Optics Laowa 12mm T2.9 Zero-D Cine Lens (ARRI PL, Meters)

Overview

The Venus Optics Laowa 12mm T2.9 Zero-D Cine Lens is an ultra-wide cinema prime built for ARRI PL-mount cameras, covering full-frame and VistaVision-sized sensors, including the ARRI Alexa LF, with a wide T2.9 to T22 aperture range. Its 122° angle of view suits large-format and Super 35 productions alike, while Venus Optics' Zero-D optical design keeps distortion close to zero, a rare feat for a lens this wide. The lens measures just 87mm long and weighs 675g, making it easy to mount on gimbals and other stabilization systems despite its extreme specifications.

A close focusing distance of 18cm lets cinematographers get striking wide-angle, shallow depth-of-field shots with pleasing bokeh, and 0.8 MOD cine gears on both the focus and aperture rings support standard follow-focus systems, with an extended 270° focus throw for accurate pulls. A 114mm step-up ring is included to fit industry-standard matte boxes without vignetting, and the lens ships in a watertight, crushproof Pelican hard case for protection during transport.

Full-Frame, VistaVision & Super 35 Coverage

The image circle covers full-frame sensors as well as the larger VistaVision sensor on the RED Monstro and the Arri Alexa LF's open-gate sensor, while also suiting Super 35 cameras with an ultra-wide field of view, a future-proof choice for productions that may upgrade to large-format cameras.

Close-to-Zero Optical Distortion

Venus Optics' Zero-D design compresses the optical distortion typical of ultra-wide lenses, which usually ranges from 2 to 4%, down to a close-to-zero level, avoiding a common headache for wide-angle cinematography.

Cine Gears with 270° Focus Throw

Standard 0.8 MOD gears on both the aperture and focusing rings allow easy installation of a follow-focus system, and an extended 270° smooth focus throw supports accurate focus pulling.

Matte Box Compatibility via Step-Up Ring

A 114mm step-up ring expands the 102mm front diameter to fit industry-standard matte boxes, tested by Venus Optics to remain free of vignetting on VV sensors.