Venus Optics Laowa 12mm T2.9 Zero-D Cine Lens (Sony E)

Overview

The Venus Optics Laowa 12mm T2.9 Zero-D Cine Lens (Sony E) is an ultra-wide-angle prime built for digital cinematography, pairing a Sony E mount with an image circle that covers full-frame, VistaVision, and ARRI ALEXA LF sized sensors. Its wide 122-degree angle of view and Zero-D optical design suit outdoor and landscape work as well as tight interior locations where distortion-free framing matters. The lens is lightweight and compact enough for handheld shooting and is light enough to mount on a gimbal, making it a versatile choice for run-and-gun and rig-based productions alike.

A maximum aperture of T2.9 is delivered through 16 elements in 10 groups, and a 7-blade iris produces soft, pleasing bokeh with a shallow depth of field and minimal distortion. Industry-standard 0.8 MOD focus and aperture gearing accommodates standard cine follow-focus systems, and a close focus distance of 17.8cm lets you get in tight on a subject. The 102mm front diameter steps up to 114mm with the included adapter ring to fit industry-standard matte boxes, and focus, aperture, and depth-of-field markings are provided in feet on the barrel to aid focus pullers.

Zero Distortion Wide-Angle Coverage

The Zero-D optical design keeps straight lines straight across the frame, even at this lens's wide 122-degree angle of view, making it well suited to architecture, interiors, and landscapes where distortion would otherwise be distracting.

Full-Frame, VistaVision, and ALEXA LF Coverage

The lens projects an image circle large enough to cover full-frame, VistaVision, and ARRI ALEXA LF sized sensors, giving productions flexibility to move between camera systems without changing lenses.

Industry-Standard 0.8 MOD Cine Gearing

Focus and aperture rings use industry-standard 0.8 pitch gearing, so the lens drops straight into a rig with a standard cine follow-focus system without needing a specialty gear.

114mm Step-Up Ring for Matte Boxes

The 102mm front diameter steps up to 114mm using the included adapter ring, letting the lens fit industry-standard matte boxes to control glare and reflections and to add filtration.

Lightweight Build for Gimbals and Handheld Rigs

Compact and lightweight construction makes the lens practical for handheld shooting and light enough for gimbal work, without sacrificing the optical performance expected of a dedicated cine prime.

Included Shim Set and Protective Case

A shim set is included for back-focus calibration, and a hard-shell Pelican case with custom-cut foam protects and transports the lens between shoots.