The Laowa Proteus is a modern 2× anamorphic prime series from Chinese manufacturer Venus Optics (Laowa), available since 2023.
1. Overview
The Laowa Proteus is a modern 2x anamorphic prime lens series from Chinese manufacturer Venus Optics (Laowa), launched in 2023. The 28mm T2 lens is aimed at productions seeking the classic anamorphic look without a vintage budget.
2. Characteristics
Flare behavior according to CINEFLARES datasheet:
- Types: Streak, Oval, Anamorphic Spot, Starburst
- Colors: White, Green, Cyan
- Intensity: Average
Linked pattern entries:
3. Creative Use
The 2x squeeze delivers pronounced oval bokeh shapes and horizontal streaks in white, green, and cyan — recognizably anamorphic, but without the unpredictability of older glass. The lens is suitable for indie productions and commercial assignments that want to combine a defined anamorphic look with modern contrast and reliable sharpness. At 2.4 kg, it is manageable for gimbal or handheld use. It is increasingly found in mid-sized rental houses as a more affordable alternative to Hawk V-Lite or Atlas Orion — less for large studio projects, more for projects with limited lens budgets that do not want to resort to spherical compromises.
4. Specs Overview
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | LAOWA |
| Type | Prime Super 35 |
| Year | 2023 |
| Country | China |
| Era | Modern |
| Focal Length (Reference Datasheet) | 28.0mm |
| T-Stop Range | T2.0 – T22.0 |
| Squeeze | 2.0× |
| Weight | 2.4 kg / 5.3 lb |
| Close Focus | 0.48 m / 19" |
| Distortion | Barrel |
News
Venus Optics has expanded the Proteus series with two anamorphic zoom lenses. The new 2x zooms cover the focal length ranges of 26-45mm and 45-85mm, each weighing only 1.5 kg and designed for Super35 sensors. Laowa is thus positioning itself as a provider of affordable anamorphic zoom optics in a previously high-priced market segment.
Related terms
Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „Laowa Proteus (Silver)"?