Venus Optics has introduced the Laowa 8-15mm f/2.8 full-frame fisheye zoom lens, available in both a photographic version and a cinema variant labeled T2.9. This lens is designed to deliver two distinct fisheye effects within a single zoom range: a circular fisheye image at 8mm, which captures a 180° field of view within a circular frame and a diagonal or rectangular fisheye at 15mm, which fills the full-frame sensor while maintaining a wide, distorted perspective.

The two versions of the lens share the same optical formula—13 elements in 9 groups and a 9-blade aperture diaphragm—but differ in construction. The photographic version is designed with a conventional layout and is compatible with Sony E, Nikon Z, Canon RF and L-Mount systems. It measures approximately 94.5mm in length, 76.4mm in diameter and weighs around 650 grams. The cinema version, targeted at video professionals, is built with a geared design suitable for rig and gimbal use, has a PL mount by default, and is more compact at 62.5mm in length and 590 grams in weight. It can also be used on mirrorless systems through mount adapters.

Both versions have manual focus only, with no electronic contacts for data transmission or autofocus. They offer a minimum focusing distance of 16 centimeters and a maximum magnification of 0.23x. The aperture remains constant throughout the zoom range—f/2.8 for the photo version and T2.9 for the cine variant—allowing for consistent exposure control and performance in low-light conditions.

Fisheye zoom lenses with this configuration are uncommon. While Canon and Nikon have released similar 8-15mm fisheye lenses with autofocus and electronic features, those models are designed primarily for DSLR systems. The Laowa alternative distinguishes itself by offering a faster maximum aperture and native compatibility with modern mirrorless mounts, though it omits autofocus.

Here are some sample pictures, from Laowa’s website: