Laowa 15mm f/4 Macro Lens for Pentax K

Venus Optics presents an innovative opportunity for photographers to delve into wide-angle macro photography with the introduction of the Laowa 15mm f/4 Macro Lens, specifically designed for full-frame Pentax K-mount cameras. Previously, achieving wide-angle macro images necessitated the use of extension tubes and various alternative methods; however, the Laowa 15mm Macro Lens now provides genuine 1:1 magnification without the associated complications. This ultra-wide lens enables users to approach their subjects remarkably closely, with a minimum focus distance of merely 4.7 inches, allowing the subjects to dominate the frame while still incorporating the background for richer contextual imagery. The internal focusing mechanism ensures that the subject remains undisturbed, even at the minimum working distance of 0.2 inches.

From an optical standpoint, the lens is meticulously engineered to reduce distortion commonly found in wide-angle lenses, featuring a sophisticated construction of 12 elements arranged in 9 groups, including one extra-low dispersion element and three high-refractive elements. The application of a multi-layer low-reflective coating enhances image quality by minimizing flare and ghosting effects. Furthermore, when utilized on APS-C cameras or in crop modes, the lens provides a vertical shift of +/- 6mm, which can be advantageous for correcting perspective in architectural photography.

This lens necessitates full manual control, facilitated by a physical aperture ring that ranges from f/4 to f/32, along with a substantial focusing ring. The flat front element accommodates a 77mm front filter thread, allowing for the attachment of various specialized filters to enrich the photographic scene. Additionally, it features a nearly circular 14-blade diaphragm that contributes to aesthetically pleasing out-of-focus areas and is supplied with a lens hood.

• Ultra-wide 110 angle of view on full-frame cameras.
• The wide-angle lens offers a 35mm equivalent focal length of 22.5mm with an 85 angle of view when used on APS-C cameras bodies or in crop modes.
• Wide aperture range of f/4 to f/32.
• Lens construction features 12 elements in 9 groups with 3 high-refractive elements and on extra-low dispersion element.
• Minimum focus distance of 4.7″ with a minimum working distance of just 0.2″.
• Manual focus and aperture control.
• When used with APS-C cameras, the Laowa 15mm Macro can utilize +/-6 mm of vertical shift to help correct perspective.
• True 1:1 magnification allows photographers to capture life-sized images of their subjects while still providing infinity focus for use as a standard wide-angle lens.
• Near-circular 14-blade aperture diaphragm provides smooth out-of-focus elements.
• Accepts 77mm threaded filters.