It's true that nowadays, one can buy the Canon 100/2.8 1:1 Macro for a bargain, but it actually costs $599 new. If you use it on a Sony body, add the adapter price to the mix. The Laowa 100/2.8 2:1 Macro APO is only $449.
The Canon is still a great macro lens but can't match the new Laowa in terms of aberration control, resolution and magnification.
It will transmit EXIF to the camera though while the Laowa does not. That's one plus for the adapted Canon.
I got a chance to shoot some more with this lens today.... figured Id show some shots other than the insects. I really like way this lens renders. Most of these were shot wide open.
I have to say, though, I've been very impressed with the Irix 150, even though it's only 1:1 and focus breathes quite a bit. It'll be interesting to see how this stacks up.
I have to say, though, I've been very impressed with the Irix 150, even though it's only 1:1 and focus breathes quite a bit. It'll be interesting to see how this stacks up.
I was tempted to buy that lens as it definitely looked to be a good performer but then I heard about the Laowa and the 2:1 won me over.
I started a thread on the Alt Lenses forum. No replies yet, so I'll copy it below in case someone here has an answer (see below).......
I know nothing about Nikon mount lenses, so I have a question for you folks who do.
I've got a Laowa 100/2.8 2:1 macro coming Monday; unfortunately I can't actually use any of the 3 native mounts that are available, so I have to adapt. I'd have bought a Canon mount since I can adapt that to either of my cameras, but since it has an electronic adapter ring, I don't think it will work on my (very picky) Sigma EF-to-L mount adapter. I therefore ordered it with a Nikon mount, assuming that I can easily adapt a non-electronic Nikon F mount.
After I ordered it, I learned that some Nikon lenses have "aperture control" - apparently they have to be controlled from the camera, even though there's a physical aperture ring? The Laowa states that it has aperture control, and I'm guessing that's what it is. If this is true, can I use one of the adapters I've seen offered, containing its own aperture blades that are operated manually via the adapter? Sounds cumbersome, but if it's the only way I can use the lens, I'll make do with it. Thanks!
charlyw wrote:
Impressive lens with one major design flaw: No tripod ring, for a lens which is only really useful on a tripod that's a critical oversight...
They sell a tripod ring separately, so just order one.
I attach the tripod to the camera instead of the lens (it is still light enough for that).
keepcoding wrote:
They sell a tripod ring separately, so just order one.
I attach the tripod to the camera instead of the lens (it is still light enough for that).
I don't see where the ring would attach - and it's not about weight, it's about compositional freedom. Once you have your subject lined up it's often the case that the subject moves ever so slightly that you need to rotate the camera by a few degrees to get a good composition - without tripod ring you are starting all over in this case...
charlyw wrote:
Impressive lens with one major design flaw: No tripod ring, for a lens which is only really useful on a tripod that's a critical oversight...
I just noticed that. I always shoot handheld so its not really an issue for me.
Rehype wrote:
I just noticed that. I always shoot handheld so its not really an issue for me.
There seem to be different versions for different mounts. For some that don't require an aperture ring there is space for a tripod ring and there is one offered (although not available it seems in Europe)...
Mostly because I have limited time to get out and shoot, and when I do, divide my time between various lenses of interest.
Been playing around with several theater projection lenses, and making adapters for helicoids, because I didn’t have much of an idea how they'd perform - and I'm fairly certain this lens is a solid performer already.
After shooting a bit more with this lens I identified the two things I like the least. I find the focus ring to be stiff and the aperture ring a bit too loose. Its really easy to accidentally turn it while shooting. Nevertheless I love the lens and the way it renders. Its a shame it doesnt get more attention.
