The Laowa Nanomorph 28-55mm T2.9 is an anamorphic zoom lens with a 1.5x squeeze factor, released in 2024 by Venus Optics (Laowa) from China.
1. Overview
The Laowa Nanomorph 28-55mm T2.9 is a 1.5x anamorphic zoom lens, released in 2024 by Venus Optics (Laowa) from China. It is aimed at Super 35 productions that want to combine an anamorphic look with the flexibility of a zoom — without the budget of classic anamorphic sets.
2. Characteristics
Flare behavior according to CINEFLARES datasheet:
- Types: Streak, Oval, Anamorphic Spot, Rainbow, Starburst
- Colors: White, Amber, Green, Blue
- Intensity: Average
Linked Pattern Entries:
3. Creative Use
The 1.5x squeeze offers a modern anamorphic compromise: a wider field of view and oval bokeh, but not the strong oval bokeh character of a 2x system. The flares — streaks in white and amber, plus green and blue — are moderately pronounced for a modern lens in this price range and react to hard light sources. Typical use cases include indie productions, music videos, and documentaries seeking an anamorphic image character while needing to remain mobile with a single zoom. The lens is commercially available and is increasingly found in smaller rental houses, less often in classic studio equipment lists.
4. Specs Overview
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | LAOWA |
| Type | Zoom Super 35 |
| Year | 2024 |
| Country | China |
| Era | Modern |
| Focal Length (Reference Datasheet) | 50.0mm |
| T-Stop Range | T2.9 – T22.0 |
| Squeeze | 1.5× |
| Weight | 1.51 kg / 3.34 lb |
| Close Focus | 0.45 m / 1' 5" |
| Distortion | Pincushion |
News
The Laowa Nanomorph series is increasingly being used in independent film production. Filmmakers are testing the lenses in short film projects and documenting their experiences in professional forums. The sharpness and characteristic anamorphic look are praised, while direct comparisons with established lenses like the Cooke Speed Panchros still reveal differences in character and tonality.
News
The Laowa Nanomorph series is increasingly being used in independent film production. Users report practical experiences with the lenses on cameras like the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K. In direct comparisons with established lenses like the Cooke Speed Panchros, the Nanomorphs are rated as sharp and technically solid, but do not achieve the characteristic tonality of more expensive optics.
Related terms
Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „Laowa Nanomorph 28-55mm (Silver)"?