Venus Optics anamorphic lenses with 1.33x squeeze factor, 25-100mm focal lengths, f/2.8; budget-friendly alternative to Cooke/Zeiss for indie productions.
Technical Details
The series includes focal lengths of 25mm, 35mm, 50mm, and 100mm for full-frame sensors, all with a constant aperture of f/2.8. The 1.33x squeeze factor is lower than classic 2x anamorphics, but allows for use with 16:9 sensors for a 2.4:1 Cinemascope format. The optics feature 13-15 lens elements in 10-11 groups, weigh between 650-1200g, and have a focus range from 0.28m (25mm) to 0.85m (100mm). The filter size is uniformly 77mm, and the lens length varies between 106-141mm depending on the focal length.
History & Development
Venus Optics introduced the first Laowa Anamorphics in 2019 as a cost-effective alternative to established manufacturers like Cooke or Zeiss. In 2020, the 35mm variant was added, followed by the 50mm and 100mm in 2021. As a Chinese manufacturer, Laowa broke the price barrier in the anamorphic segment, making these lenses accessible for independent productions. In 2022, the series was expanded with the Nanomorph 27mm f/2.8 1.5x, which was specifically optimized for Super35 sensors.
Practical Use in Film
Laowa Anamorphics are primarily used in low-budget productions and independent films where the budget for more expensive anamorphic systems is lacking. Typical workflow integration is via standard PL or EF mount adapters on digital cameras like RED, BlackMagic, or Sony FX series. The lenses produce blue horizontal flares from light sources and oval bokeh structures. The advantage is an affordable entry into anamorphic aesthetics; disadvantages include higher chromatic aberration and lower sharpness performance compared to high-end anamorphics.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to classic 2x anamorphics from Cooke, Zeiss, or Hawk, Laowa lenses offer a significantly lower squeeze factor and a more moderate price with reduced optical performance. Sirui, also a Chinese manufacturer, offers direct competition with its 24mm, 35mm, 50mm, and 75mm f/1.8 1.33x anamorphics, featuring a faster aperture. For budgets under €10,000 per lens, Laowa Anamorphics represent the entry-level class, while productions with higher budgets opt for proven systems like Cooke Anamorphic/i or Zeiss Anamorphics.