Wide angle photography opens up a fascinating world of perspective, and the Laowa 15mm f/5 is a remarkable and compact lens that invites you to explore your surroundings in an expansive way.
Who is Laowa?
Established in 2013, Laowa (Venus Optics) is based in China as a leading lens manufacturer. Their team has more than 20 years of experience designing lenses and has designed lenses for Japanese and German manufacturers. Laowa’s mission is to design and create our own portfolio of photographic lenses that are unique, practical, and affordable. Their lenses are distributed in over 40 countries, and they have a vast portfolio. In the last several years, they have introduced unique optics. They introduced the Laowa 60mm f/2.8 2X Ultra-Macro lens, the world's first 2:1 Macro lens with a focusing range from 2:1 magnification to infinity. Later on, they introduced another world first, the Laowa 15mm f/4 Wide Angle Macro.
First Impressions
After unpacking the Laowa 15mm f/5 Cookie, I first noticed the build quality of this lens and its compactness. The first thing that came to mind was it would be a great lens to use on my Nikon Z 6II, which I could carry everywhere with me, maintaining a very compact form factor if you don’t mind the 15mm focal length. The lens weighs a mere 4.9 oz (158 g)! It is almost too small for my liking; it was a little harder to hold and focus but manageable. My biggest issue was the 15mm focal length—if I wasn’t careful where I held the lens, I would get a finger in the frame! After using it, I became more aware of this issue. This lens would be an excellent addition for anyone who likes to photograph landscapes, architecture, or street photography due to the angle of view.photography due to the angle of view.
Specifications
- Focal Length: 15mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/5
- Lens Format: Full frame
- Focus Type: Manual
- Image Stabilization: No
- Filter Size: 39mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/5
- Minimum Aperture: f/22
- Angle of View: 110°
- Minimum Focus Distance: 4.72 in (12 cm)
- Maximum Magnification: 0.02x
- Optical Design: 13 elements in 9 groups
- Diaphragm Blades: 5
Compatibility
The lens is available in Sony E, Nikon Z, Canon RF, L-Mount, and Leica M mounts. There is no issue with compatibility, as they are making the lens for all major manufacturers. The lens is also available in silver and black if you have a color preference. The lens has an auto aperture for Sony and Nikon Z users. Canon RF, L-Mount, and Leica M are manual aperture.
Build Quality and Design
This compact, lightweight lens measures approximately 2.1 x 1 in and weighs 5.4 oz (154 g). The lens seems to have a mix of metal and plastic components. The aperture and focus distance scale appear to be engraved and then painted. I appreciate it when manufacturers add the distance scale and use metal lens mounts, as some forgo metal mounts for plastic to save costs. In the long run, this saves the end user future headaches. The construction of this lens is solid; I wouldn’t have any concerns if it took a little beating—it will hold up. The lens also has a rubber gasket around the mount, adding more weather protection.
When inspecting the lens, you may notice it has a built-in USB micro port. I assume this will be for future firmware updates, as more manufacturers add this feature to their lenses, which is another win for us!
As for the ergonomics, many will disagree with me—it’s too small. That said, the ergonomics will be fine for most photographers. It may feel a little weird to handle if you have larger hands. The focusing ring felt awkward to use due to the small form factor. I prefer bigger lenses, which I can handle better, but I think I could overcome this issue with a little more time shooting with this lens.
Optical Performance
This lens performs well overall. There may be a little softness wide open, but these eyes may just be getting older! Considering the cost of the lens at $399, you can’t complain about the quality. Compared to other lenses in the ultra-wide category, this one holds up well.
It is challenging to avoid flare when shooting with a wide angle lens. On a few occasions, I shot directly into a light source, and this lens performed very well. There was some flare in the images, but it added to the aesthetic and wasn’t overly distracting.
Distortion is the culprit for many wide-angle lenses. If you are aware of Laowa, you know they offer a line of “zero distortion” lenses, but this lens is not in that line. You have to be careful, as this lens has distortion, and that shouldn’t be a surprise considering the 15mm focal length. Make sure you correct any distortions.
One of my favorite aspects of this lens is its starburst performance. When shooting light sources at apertures like f/16 or f/22, the lens produces immaculate starbursts with perfect lines.
Versatility
Previously, I mentioned that this lens would be great for street, landscape, and architectural photographers. These are the primary uses for this lens, as the 15mm focal length will capture a vast area. This lens would be perfect if you are doing an environmental portrait and must capture your subject in their environment. I hate to say that a lens is only suitable for specific types of photography. If you need a particular look in an image, find a corresponding focal length to achieve your goal. Don’t rule out this lens for other needs beyond the ordinary!
Pros
- Affordability
- Compact
- Image quality
Cons
- Ergonomics
In the End
Ultimately, the Laowa 15mm f/5 Cookie lens is a great, compact, and affordable addition to your camera bag. When you compare its value and performance, you really can’t complain. It would make a great everyday lens for a compact carry kit, ensuring you never miss the shot. With its excellent starbursts at f/16 or f/22 and superb overall image quality, this lens is worth considering if you’re looking for a low-cost wide angle.
