Category: Lenses

The Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT is the World’s widest rectilinear f/2 lens for Micro Four Thirds cameras. The extreme 110° angle of view and ultra-fast f/2 aperture allows photographers to create impressive astro-photography shots with ease. It also gives photographers a fast and wide-angle option for landscape photography and low-light shooting. Despite the extreme specifications, Venus Optics has successfully minimised the weight of the lens to less than 200g (150g in the case of the special light-weight version), and the dimensions to just 50x55mm. The optical formula comprises 13 elements in 9 groups (including 2 aspherical elements and 3 extra-low-dispersion elements). The Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT is currently available to pre-order via the official website of Venus Optics. The lens carries a recommended retail price of $499 for the standard edition and $519 for the light-weight version.
The Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT is the World’s widest rectilinear f/2 lens for Micro Four Thirds cameras. The extreme 110° angle of view and ultra-fast f/2 aperture allows photographers to create impressive astro-photography shots with ease. It also gives photographers a fast and wide-angle option for landscape photography and low-light…

Samyang today unveiled a new addition to their VDSLR lens line-up. Designed specifically for video shooting with DSLR cameras, the Samyang VDSLR 16mm T2.6 is an affordable wide-angle lens offering a traditional distance scale with depth-of-field marks and built in follow focus gearing on both the focus and aperture rings. The new lens will be available from June, priced at £529..
Samyang today unveiled a new addition to their VDSLR lens line-up. Designed specifically for video shooting with DSLR cameras, the Samyang VDSLR 16mm T2.6 is an affordable wide-angle lens offering a traditional distance scale with depth-of-field marks and built in follow focus gearing on both the focus and aperture rings…

Canon U.S.A. today announced their new Compact-Servo 70-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens (also known as the CN-E 70-200mm T4.4 L IS KAS S), a compact and lightweight 4K lens designed for professional videographers. The second in a new class of Canon lenses, the Compact-Servo 70-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens is a cinema-style lens that includes a servo drive unit as a standard feature. Additionally, the lens incorporates image stabilisation, auto focus and Auto Iris functionality The lens also provides high image quality that supports 4K image productions and was designed to be utilised in a variety of shooting styles including, hand-held, shoulder mounted, and tripod mounted. Compatible with EF-mount Super 35mm large-format cameras, the lens maintains brightness across the entire focal range at T4.4 (equal to f/4.0). The lens is also compatible with both the Canon EF 1.4x III (expanded focal range of 98-280mm) and EF 2x III (expanded focal range of 140mm-400mm) external extenders, expanding the focal range of the lens for additional versatility when the shooting situation calls for it. The Canon COMPACT-SERVO 70-200mm Zoom Lens is scheduled to be available later in 2017.
Canon U.S.A. today announced their new Compact-Servo 70-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens (also known as the CN-E 70-200mm T4.4 L IS KAS S), a compact and lightweight 4K lens designed for professional videographers. The second in a new class of Canon lenses, the Compact-Servo 70-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens is a cinema-style…

Sigma today announced the development of a new full-frame CINE lens, the 135mm T2 FF High Speed Prime. Based on the existing Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM | Art telephoto lens, the new Sigma CINE 135mm T2 FF High Speed Prime offers an angle of view of 15.2° when mounted to a full-frame camera (10.4° on Super35 and 10.0° on APS-C). Available in June-July 2017 in Canon EF, Sony E and PL mounts, the Sigma CINE 135mm T2 FF lens has an 82mm filter thread and a close-focus point of 0.875m / 2'11". Like all of Sigma's FF High Speed Primes, the 135mm T2 FF lens has an iris diaphragm with 9 rounded blades. The new lens will be available for test shooting at the 2017 NAB Show held in Las Vegas from 24-27 April 2017.
Sigma today announced the development of a new full-frame CINE lens, the 135mm T2 FF High Speed Prime. Based on the existing Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM | Art telephoto lens, the new Sigma CINE 135mm T2 FF High Speed Prime offers an angle of view of 15.2° when mounted…

The Sigma CINE 14mm T2 FF High Speed Prime is a new full-frame UWA lens aimed at cinematographers. Currently under development, the Sigma CINE 14mm T2 FF High Speed Prime will be available in Canon EF, Sony E and cine-standard PL mounts. Offering an angle of view of 104.3° when mounted to a full-frame camera, the new lens has a 9-bladed iris diaphragm and a close-focus point of 0.27m / 11" (measured from the sensor plane). Based on the SIGMA 14mm F1.8 DG HSM | Art lens, the Sigma CINE 14mm T2 FF High Speed Prime will be available for test shooting at the 2017 NAB Show held in Las Vegas from April 24th and 27th.
The Sigma CINE 14mm T2 FF High Speed Prime is a new full-frame UWA lens aimed at cinematographers. Currently under development, the Sigma CINE 14mm T2 FF High Speed Prime will be available in Canon EF, Sony E and cine-standard PL mounts. Offering an angle of view of 104.3° when…

The Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5–5.6 GM OSS is the furthest reaching E-mount lens in the range. The Sony FE 100-400mm GM lens will start to ship from July 2017, priced at approximately £2,500.
The Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5–5.6 GM OSS is the furthest reaching E-mount lens in the range. The Sony FE 100-400mm GM lens will start to ship from July 2017, priced at approximately £2,500.

The Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 8-18mm f/2.8-4 ASPH. is a new wide zoom for Micro Four Thirds cameras. Equivalent to a 16-36mm lens in a 35mm system, the Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 8-18mm f/2.8-4 ASPH. covers a variety of photographic genres and shooting situations, from interiors and landscapes to environmental portraiture and street photography. The non-rotating 67mm filter thread allows users to mount a variety of creative filters such as polarisers and ND grads. Comprising 15 elements in 10 groups, the lens system features an aspherical ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lens, three aspherical lenses, two ED lenses and an UHR (Ultra High Refractive Index) lens. The use of these lenses effectively suppress spherical distortion or chromatic aberration to achieve high resolution and contrast from centre to corners. The Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 8-18mm f/2.8-4 ASPH. will be available from the end of May (RRP £1049).
The Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 8-18mm f/2.8-4 ASPH. is a new wide zoom for Micro Four Thirds cameras. Equivalent to a 16-36mm lens in a 35mm system, the Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 8-18mm f/2.8-4 ASPH. covers a variety of photographic genres and shooting situations, from interiors and landscapes to environmental portraiture and…

Fujifilm has unveiled an updated lens roadmap for the GFX 50S lens system. New additions include a telephoto prime lens and tele converter. With the addition of the two new lenses, the GF lens lineup has now expanded to a total of eight lenses.
Fujifilm has unveiled an updated lens roadmap for the GFX 50S lens system. New additions include a telephoto prime lens and tele converter. With the addition of the two new lenses, the GF lens lineup has now expanded to a total of eight lenses.

The Fujinon GF 110mm F2 R LM WR is a new medium telephoto lens for the Fujifilm GFX 50S 43.8×32.9mm format digital camera. Available from June, this lens has a focal length equivalent to 87mm in 35mm terms, and offers fantastic bokeh thanks to its large maximum aperture. The optical formula comprises 14 elements in 9 groups, including 4 ED lens elements, and an iris diaphragm with 9 rounded blades. The aperture ring has a C position (command dial mode) that allows the lens aperture value to be changed via the command dial on the camera body to suit the photographer’s preference. A locking mechanism has been added to the A (Auto) and C positions to prevent unintended movements of the aperture dial. In terms of construction, the lens has been sealed in nine areas, allowing the user to shoot in dusty environments and in light rain outdoors.
The Fujinon GF 110mm F2 R LM WR is a new medium telephoto lens for the Fujifilm GFX 50S 43.8×32.9mm format digital camera. Available from June, this lens has a focal length equivalent to 87mm in 35mm terms, and offers fantastic bokeh thanks to its large maximum aperture. The optical…

Fujifilm today announced that it will release the dust- and weather-resistant Fujinon GF 23mmF4 R LM WR medium-fromat lens in June. With a focal length equivalent to 18mm in 35mm terms, this super wide-angle lens is optimal for shooting landscapes and architecture with the Fuji GFX 50S 43.8×32.9mm format digital camera. The optical formula comprises 15 elements (including two aspherical lenses, one super ED lens, and three ED lenses) and an iris diaphragm with 9 rounded aperture blades. The aperture ring has a C position (command dial mode) to allow the lens aperture value to be changed via the command dial on the camera body. A locking mechanism has been added to the A (Auto) and C positions to prevent unintended movements of the aperture dial. Nano GI coating has been applied to the lens to minimise ghosting and flare.
Fujifilm today announced that it will release the dust- and weather-resistant Fujinon GF 23mmF4 R LM WR medium-fromat lens in June. With a focal length equivalent to 18mm in 35mm terms, this super wide-angle lens is optimal for shooting landscapes and architecture with the Fuji GFX 50S 43.8×32.9mm format digital…

Leica has found a fix for the faulty auto-focus drive units built into some of their S-system lenses. The company is now offering a free replacement of the autofocus drive unit of the affected lenses "within the terms of a goodwill arrangement." This goodwill arrangement will remain valid for a period of five years from the date of purchase of the respective S-lens. Users can send their defective lenses directly to Leica’s Customer Care or the authorised Customer Care department of their country’s Leica subsidiary.
Leica has found a fix for the faulty auto-focus drive units built into some of their S-system lenses. The company is now offering a free replacement of the autofocus drive unit of the affected lenses "within the terms of a goodwill arrangement." This goodwill arrangement will remain valid for a…

The Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM is a stabilised macro lens with built-in LED lights. Designed for Canon DSLRs with a crop factor of 1.6, the EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM offers a similar angle of view as a 56mm lens on a 35mm full-frame camera. The Hybrid IS system delivers up to four stops of shake correction (measured according to CIPA standards), while the Smooth Movie Servo AF with Lead Screw-type STM ensures quiet AF operation. The optical formula comprises 10 elements in 6 groups and a 7-bladed iris diaphragm. The lens can focus down to 3cm and achieves a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:1. The Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM lens is scheduled to be available in June 2017 for an estimated retail price of £399.99/€479.99/$349.99
The Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM is a stabilised macro lens with built-in LED lights. Designed for Canon DSLRs with a crop factor of 1.6, the EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM offers a similar angle of view as a 56mm lens on a 35mm full-frame camera. The…

Today, Meyer-Optik announced the development of their new Primagon 24mm f/2.8 lens. "Even though the Primagon takes its name from a famous line of historic Meyer-Optik lenses, the new Primagon 24 is a totally new development," the company said in a statement. "With the help of world famous development engineers, the Meyer-Optik team has been working on the Primagon 24 for more than a year." The optical formula will comprise 7 elements including 1 aspherical glass element. Weighing in at 250 grams, the new lens will be available for "practically all mirrorless cameras," starting early 2018. The suggested retail price will be €4.999/$5,499.
Today, Meyer-Optik announced the development of their new Primagon 24mm f/2.8 lens. "Even though the Primagon takes its name from a famous line of historic Meyer-Optik lenses, the new Primagon 24 is a totally new development," the company said in a statement. "With the help of world famous development engineers…

Zeiss have added a new full-frame telephoto lens to their Batis lens family. The new Zeiss Batis 2.8/135 Apo Sonnar T* is the first 135mm AF lens developed specifically for Sony’s E-mount cameras. In addition to a fast and precise auto focus mechanism, the Batis 2.8/135 offers an optical image stabiliser to help you avoid blurring caused by shaky hands. Additionally, this latest addition to the Batis line features an OLED display that enables precise visualisation of the depth of field. The optical formula comprises 14 elements in 11 groups, while the metal housing is sealed against dust and moisture. Weighing in at 614 grams, the lens offers a minimum focus distance of 87cm and a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:5.3 The ZEISS Batis 2.8/135 will be available from specialist dealers starting May 2017, and will retail at £1,749.99.
Zeiss have added a new full-frame telephoto lens to their Batis lens family. The new Zeiss Batis 2.8/135 Apo Sonnar T* is the first 135mm AF lens developed specifically for Sony’s E-mount cameras. In addition to a fast and precise auto focus mechanism, the Batis 2.8/135 offers an optical image…

Nikon today announced its range of commemorative models and goods to celebrate its 100th Anniversary on July 25, 2017. The Anniversary range, which features the 100th Anniversary logo and special finishes and details, includes Nikon’s two flagship digital SLR cameras - the D5 100th Anniversary Edition and the D500 100th Anniversary Edition -, a telephoto zoom lens - the Nikkor70-200E 100th Anniversary Edition -, a special set of three Nikkor lenses, and finally, commemorative editions of three binoculars. A special collection of commemorative goods will also be available, including the Nikon 100th Anniversary Crystal Creation Nikon Model I - a beautiful crystal reproduction of the first Nikon 35mm camera from 1948 -, the Nikon 100th Anniversary Pin Collection, the Nikon 100th Anniversary Miniature Nikon F Camera - a 1/2-scale model of Nikon's first flagship model - and the Nikon 100th Anniversary Premium Camera Strap. In addition to launching these products, Nikon has also set up a100th Anniversary website.
Nikon today announced its range of commemorative models and goods to celebrate its 100th Anniversary on July 25, 2017. The Anniversary range, which features the 100th Anniversary logo and special finishes and details, includes Nikon’s two flagship digital SLR cameras - the D5 100th Anniversary Edition and the D500 100th…

Sigma today announced the availability and suggested retail price of the Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary lens. Boasting an optical stabiliser, fast AF and a dust- and splash-proof construction, the 100-400mm F5-6.3 Contemporary also features Sigma’s unique macro function (with a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:3.8), and a push/pull zooming mechanism for ease of use. The all-new Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG HSM OS Contemporary lens supports Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts and works with Sigma’s MC-11 Sony E-mount converter. The Nikon variant features a brand new electromagnetic diaphragm. The SRP of the 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM will be £799.99 / $799.00 and will be available in April 2017.
Sigma today announced the availability and suggested retail price of the Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary lens. Boasting an optical stabiliser, fast AF and a dust- and splash-proof construction, the 100-400mm F5-6.3 Contemporary also features Sigma’s unique macro function (with a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:3.8), and a…

Want to see exactly what the new Pentax D FA 50mm f/1.4 prototype lens looks like in the flesh?
Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Pentax D FA 50mm f/1.4 prototype lens for Pentax's 35mm full-frame DSLRs (currently just the Pentax K-1).
Pentax are also showing a cut-away/exploded version of the new Pentax KP APS-C DSLR, which we reviewed last week.
Want to see exactly what the new Pentax D FA 50mm f/1.4 prototype lens looks like in the flesh? Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Pentax D FA 50mm f/1.4 prototype lens for Pentax's 35mm full-frame DSLRs (currently just the Pentax K-1). Pentax are also showing…

Want to see exactly what the new Sigma 14mm, 135mm, 100-400mm and 24-70mm lenses look like in the flesh?
Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Sigma 14mm F1.8 DG HSM Art , Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art, Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG HSM OS Contemporary and Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG HSM OS Art lenses.
Want to see exactly what the new Sigma 14mm, 135mm, 100-400mm and 24-70mm lenses look like in the flesh? Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Sigma 14mm F1.8 DG HSM Art , Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art, Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG HSM OS Contemporary and…

Want to see exactly what the new Kowa Micro Four Thirds Cine lenses look like in the flesh?
Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Kowa Prominar Micro Four Thirds Cine lenses
Want to see exactly what the new Kowa Micro Four Thirds Cine lenses look like in the flesh? Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Kowa Prominar Micro Four Thirds Cine lenses

Want to see exactly what the new Laowa lenses look like in the flesh?
Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Laowa lenses, including the Laowa 15mm f/2 Sony FE, Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT and an intriguing 25mm f/2.8 2.5-5x super macro lens.
Want to see exactly what the new Laowa lenses look like in the flesh? Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Laowa lenses, including the Laowa 15mm f/2 Sony FE, Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT and an intriguing 25mm f/2.8 2.5-5x super macro lens.