Thanks for watching! Subscribe for weekly videos! More regular content from me in these places: 💌 newsletter: mwroll.com 🎞 instagram: instagram.com/mwroll 🪙 patreon: patreon.com/micaelwidell 🐦 twitter: twitter.com/micaelwidell 📷 the lens: bit.ly/mwlaowa100 (I always buy Laowa lenses from their website - fast and free shipping worldwide) 🌇 view and download all the photos from this video in full size - join my Patreon: www.patreon.com/posts/53124890 The camera I took all photos with: amzn.to/2IACPex The grip extension I use for my camera: amzn.to/2INloqo The flash I used for most of the photos in this video: amzn.to/2MHDNrY The type of diffuser I use: amzn.to/2EVl32e My camera strap: amzn.to/2NUNTmg The adapter I used to fit the Canon EF lens on my Sony camera: amzn.to/2EVltWm This video was filmed with this small action camera: amzn.to/2O154TD And also with this M43 camera: amzn.to/2MuNt9i Mic used for voiceover: amzn.to/2UBZb1i I compare the lens with the Laowa 60mm 2x macro lens: amzn.to/2HeipWQ And also with the 25mm 2.5-5x macro lens: amzn.to/2LCnKvg
Yes, I linked to a US one because most of my viewers are Americans. But the diffuser I *really* use is of the German brand DÖRR :) So go look for a DÖRR diffuser, it is sold in Sweden at least, and it is a German brand I think.
Would this work and more importantly make sense to use this lens with a crop sensor camera like my Canon 70 D? I believe it would give more than 2X, right?
Technically it gives you 2x no matter what sensor you use, but your subjects will cover more of the frame on APS-C cameras so yes the perceived magnification is bigger. I haven’t tried it on an aps-c camera but it would probably work good. Otherwise look at the 60mm lens from the same company which is made specifically for aps-c.
@@MicaelWidell It's worth checking out,I believe the magnification would be greater than 2X on an APSC camera , but the ratio 2:1 would still be the same.APSC will have a little bit more depth of field and Maybe -maybe more working distance.. Make sense? Great review,and you answered questions right while I was thinking them! 2:1 sounds great with the working distance you demonstrated.
Holding your breath while lungs are full tends to make muscles shake. Hold your breath after breathing out is the actual method that phtotography classes teach and that olympic target shooters use.
Handholding at 1/40 under those circumstances is the real wonder in this video. You have my utmost respect (and jealousy :) I'm really impressed by the lens as well. Well done real-world review.
He wears the ball cap backwards for function; the fact that it makes him look cool is just a side benefit! ;) Seriously, though, thank you for the review of this lens. I am very excited to add it to my collection. Your endorsement tipped me over the edge!
The function being: the bill of the hat stopping you from looking up past a certain angle? I cannot stand wearing a cap that way as it keeps bumping into my back and either falling off or stopping me from looking up in a normal fashion. I like a straw hat to protect me from sun. Air blows right through instead of a cap adding huge amounts of heat, and the smaller bill is enough to shade the camera screen but not so long so as to get in the way.
Great job Micael - I ordered the lens. I own and use frequently the Laowa 12mm F2.8 - love it, get some amazing compositions - great real estate, beach, mountain scape lens.
#billystayart (should have addrd this to my prev. comment) Side note: really like the inexspensive defuser AMAZON is out - found it at B&H for $9 bucks ( Interfit STR111 Strobies On-Camera Small Diffuser B&H # INSTR111 MFR # STR111) I have several diffusers but they are all bulky and get in the way when doing most macro... again.. NICE JOB, appreciate your passion and communication.
Hi Micael. As always an excellent video and amazing macro images. Could you help me answering this question? I understand this lens will work on a Nikon D5100, it is only necessary to consider the crop factor. But, which features would it lose on that body? Does it have to see with the EXIF Data? Thanks in advance.
Full manual control is precisely what I require as a macro photographer, I'm currently using a 150mm f2.8 macro lens for more skittish insects, things that you can't get that close to, also comes in very handy for wildlife shots used on an apsc camera. Not sure if 100mm would cut it for me, looks pretty good though
Yep, coming from the Canon EF 180 to this lens was really frustrating for insect photography, but it is probably not an issue for someone that are used to shorter focal lengths, like Michael here.
I'm glad these videos exist cause the next lens I want to buy is definitely a macro one and I want to make sure the one I get is just right for me, thank you!
I bought this lens about three weeks ago and am learning to use it (I am learning much already watching your videos). I am grateful your review was so positive. I had considered several other options, but this one was economical and seemed to have a lot of support among those who have reviewed it.
Hi Micael - great video! I've watched a few of your vidoes recently and have really liked them. I really want to get into macro photography, and had previously thought about buying the Tamron 90 mm 2.8 macro (the latest one - f017). However, the 2x of the Laowa is really attractive. My only doubt is the lack of image stabilization on the Laowa ( I don't see the lack of autofocus as a problem). For a beginner at macro photography, do you think this would be an issue? I shoot with a Canon APS-C body, so no IBS.
Hello Sir. I would like to ask, at 4:15 , are you shure you shot 1/40 ? or it was 1/400 ? please confirm since I am learning from your videos, thank you in advance.
Amazing shots ! Im think about this lens for my canon 90d. I have never done any macro photography before, are these images taken focus stacked or simply one shot ? Ive never done any focus stacking before. Great video !
Hi Micael I realize that this video is 4 years old now, but it's still current for people like me starting to get involved with macro photography. Can you tell me how a camera with focus staking, focus stacks with a manual focus lens?
For the camera to perform automatic stacking, the lens needs an autofocus motor. But you can still do focus stacking with a manual lens, by taking photos in a rapid succession while moving the camera slowly. See my recent video on focus stacking for more details.
Awesome real-life review! I also have a Sony (a7RIII).. I understand the Sony version doesn't have electrical contacts, thankfully I have a Metabones adapter too. I wish I didn't have to use it though! I haven't seen one review for the Sony version. Do the Canon version's aperture blades stay open until you take the picture closed down? I doubt the Sony version will.. Anything you know on this would be very helpful! Thanks!
The diffuser that you are using in this video doesn't appear to be available anywhere. Do you know of a similar diffuser that is readily available? Thanks for this video I will most likely grab a copy of this lens very soon because of your no nonsense approach to the review!
Very interesting and thoughtful review of this Laowa 2X Ultra-Macro lens! I have it in the Nikon Z mount, and I agree that it is tack-sharp! One question...Have you noticed that the Focus "throw" is quite small/short? In other words, when I rotate the focus ring just slightly, the focus point moves alot! That said, when I do nail focus, it is indeed super-sharp! Thank you.
6:02 Tycker du fortfarande det är bättre att använda Dörr diffusor på enbart längre brännvidder som 100mm? Fungerar ju perfekt på 50mm macro, bara att ställa ner blixtstyrkan. :)
Micael, I have a canon 200d and just the kit lens. I have been trying to get some macro shots but I am struggling to get any good ones. Which cheap lens would you recommend for macro photography for my canon 200d?
For macro photography/videography do you recommend the 100mm or the 25mm with the 2.5x-5x? ( I usually take shots of the tiny intricate details of the watch movement )
Excellent review. Thank you. I have the Sony 90mm. I'm considering this lens. I notice you went with the Canon EF instead of the Sony FE version. Is that due to the lack of electronics? Thanks in advance.
I didn’t buy it but got to lend it from Venus optics. And if I remember correctly this was the only version they had on hand for me. It is true that the canon Ef version is the only one that comes with electrical coupling for aperture (it also comes without) while the Sony and all other versions only comes without electrical coupling.
@@MicaelWidell I bought the Sony FE version. It is phenomenal! Compared to the Sony 90mm it is much sharper. I won't be getting rid of the Sony 90 as I feel they are different enough to warrant having both. Again, thanks for the great review. Have a great day.
Hello Micael, Do this lens works normal with lens adapter? I currently have Fuji X-T2body and Canon RP. I don't want to buy RF version because if I do so, I can only use the lens on my Canon RP but won't be able to use the lens on my Fuji X-T2. There is no lens adapter RF-FX yet exist. So my first choice will be the EF mount full manual version. I already have EF-RF adapter and also plan to buy Viltrox EF-FX.
Many thanks. Great video. Covered all the things I needed. I'll probably be using the same setup with the FE lens. Loved the lighting setup. Nice shots!
I placed an Order on May 8 for Sony mount. But now I wrote to them to make change to Canon because of the Electronic Aperture. It looks that they did not sent the order yet, so they let me know about the Adapter and is still OK to change. I said Yes and is OK if they did not shipped yet. Then I ask when it would be ship. At this time no answer yet.
A couple more questions first , do you have any videos with the per gear 60 mm 2.8 the new version that the photos have not been stacked? and final question if I have a crop sensor Sony a 6000 and use the 60 mm pergear 2.8 would it be like using a 90 mm equivalent. Love your videos by the way very interesting I want to get into macro photography.
Thank you for your wonderful videos on macro photography. LOL.Every experienced photographer who wears a baseball cap like yours will flip it around sooner or later. I do it often.
Hey thanks for all your great videos. I am looking into this lens and wondered if the focus confirmation will work in this manual lens? (I mean whem Im focusing handheld if the focus dots in the viewfinder will light up when in focus? EOS 7dmkII)
thx for the nice video! why do you use the adapter? is it that important to control the aperture via the camera? I just started at macro so I'm honestly curious why :)
People like that their photos have the aperture setting saved in the file as that info is usually published together with photos. If your camera has built in sensor stabilization then the focal length of the lens is important to make the effect work well so having the electronic contacts telling your camera the focal length saves you from entering that info manually when you attach the lens.
@@0ooTheMAXXoo0 thx for your answer! you just made me research how to change the focal length manually on my a7iii! I'm glad you made me aware of this!
I have this lens and I love it! It is as sharp as my Nikon 105mm f2.8 macro. This lens combined with the focus peaking and VR in my Z9 is outstanding! The price is nice too.
Hey Micael, I love ur videos, i love taking photos, but i would like to start with macro photography :) , but i have Nikon D5200, do you think this kind of Laowa can work good with my Nikon ?..Thank you very much :)
Yes it would work great. But for that camera I would personally buy the Laowa 60mm lens, which is similar but smaller and lighter and made especially for APS-C DSLRs like yours.
Many thanks; I've just 'discovered' your channel and I'm enjoying your 'macro' vlogs. I haven't begun macro photography yet, but I've hired an Olympus lens and I'm looking at flash and accessories. I can't find a diffuser like yours in Australia and your cyberphoto appear out of stock(and expensive if that's in Euros). Can you advise of a similar supplier? Thanks once again. Mike in Oz
If you go here and read under specifications you will see that it is for APS-C, but that it works for full frame if you only do macro: bit.ly/mwlaowa60
Nice video, I just got this lens for mi Nikon camera, just a question, at 0.53, the laowa 100 2.8 2x macro lens shows electric contacts on the mount , but the lens I got does not have any contacts to communicate with camera, Is that lens an auto focus lens?
This lens generally comes with NO elextrical contacts, however for Canon EF specifically there is a special version of this lens with electrical contacts so that the camera can adjust aperture. It does NOT have autofocus though.
Depends on your needs. If you prioritize light weight and small size, the 60mm is better. If you prioritize optical perfection and focusing on infinity on full frame, get the 100mm. Also check this video about why I prefer the 60mm: ruclips.net/video/QBgJHQUSzxQ/видео.html
The most steady hands we have during inhaling air. When we hold our breath there is significant shake correlated with heart beat. Try inhaling with steady pace for 3sec. Doctor tip 😉
Thanks I want to ask is there any button to shoot 1x magnification. I want to use this lens with my Bmpcc 4k and it has crop factor. So 2x will be too much for me. Is 1x shooting possible? Thanks
Great review/tips. Do you recommend this lens of the 60mm for a crop factor Nikon D5500 camera? I love the IQ but $499 seems high for a lens with no electronics at all in my Nikon. No AF, no VR, no way to control anything and only able to use in Manual mode. Any other lenses you recommend that might cost less?
For macro photography at high magnifications, autofocus and VR is not something you want to use anyway. If I were you I would buy this lens or the Laowa 60mm which is also great but smaller and more lightweight. If you want something dirt cheap look into the Meike 85mm. I have reviewed all of these lenses.
@@MicaelWidell Thanks. I just made an offer on the Meike! Question- does getting a fast macro lens even matter since most seem to be shooting at stepped down apertures anyway? I think F8-F16+ is popular to get some DOF. On the Nikon D5500 Crop- would this be a fully manual lens? I think my camera penalizes the user a lot for using a non-cpu lens. Will only work in manual mode with limited capability- same would be true if I used the Laowa. Would you recommend their F/2.8 vs. their F/1.8 lens (not sure if that one is also Macro.)
Would you consider this macro lens to be superior to the Nikon Z-series Macro lenses? It's 1/2 the price. I have the Nikkor MC 105/2.8 S, but will also get the Venus Laowa if you think it's going to improve the image quality? Thanks
Micael, hi, I recently bought a Laowa 100mm f2.8 macro and it's just great optically. I use it on a Canon 600D DSLR. However, I suspect some battery drain as it will flatten a new, freshly charged Duracell battery in less than a week if left attached (and unused) on the camera. My other Canon lenses do not do this. I wonder have you had any similar experiences with battery drain? Thanks, Nick
Hello friend Micael Widell on Photography. We would ask you to activate the subtitling option because we do not understand much English in your video. We are new to video with Macros. We have this Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens for Canon EF (Auto Aperture) lens with the Metabones adapter for the Sony A7III and FX3 just like your setup. Since we have updated Metabones we are experiencing problems: - Sometimes it is possible to expose correctly with the iso and when we turn the camera off and on other times it goes completely dark and we have to raise the ISO to approximately 32000. - The focus ring becomes zoom for some bad reason. We get closer to the object to focus, we turn the focus ring and as a result, apart from focusing, it provides us with zoom. - Sometimes on the camera's display, the value of the diaphragm aperture that we are using disappears. I wanted to know if you have also had these problems or it is all due to the update of the Metabones adapter. I come to the conclusion that the Auto Opening system is not good, but when we bought it at B&H, there was no Manual Opening option. I look forward to your help in your comments. Thank you,
Hello Micael! Will the Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO lens give a magnification of 3.2 for Canon APS-C camera? Thank you in advance for your answer!
The magnification will still be 2x since it is independent of sensor size. But I understand what you mean, and yes you will get a tighter framing with an APS-C camera that corresponds to 2*1.5 = 3x roughly
8:23 ... sorry when you said 100mm is more light weight and smaller than 60mm, It’s confusing , as i saw your 60mm review video before which is the opposite. Can you explain it , maybe i’ve missed something.
Your demonstration of this lens's capabilities is very persuasive, with some great insect shots, but I really can't justify getting _another_ macro lens for my α7R setup - three is enough! However, that diffuser screen seems to be worth investigating... :)
Would you recommend this over the "Canon EF 100mm f2.8L IS USM" + fitting extension tubes to reach higher magnifications? I'm looking to mostly get it for macro photography. Price wise in my scenario, they are the same. Tack för en fin recension!
Honestly I cannot understand why on earth you would buy the Canon 100mm with extension tubes? That solution would be very unflexible, as you would have a very narrow magnification range. Also the extension tubes would make the whole setup wobbly, long, and unbalanced. With the Laowa lens you have everything from infinity to 2x.
Which Canon EF version to get? Manual, or auto aperture? I don't understand. I read different things about it. Some say auto aperture is an advantage, others say it's a disadvantage. I read that with one of those version you can have a dark image when looking through the viewfinder, which makes it hard to make a good composition and difficult to get focus right. I need to be able to see clearly through the viewfinder (i use Canon 6D) so i can see what i'm doing, which version should i get?
Hi Micael, In the set-up in this video your on camera flash is in TTL or manual? If in manual, what power range you use on the flash in this video? Thank you if advance for your replay and help.
@@MicaelWidell, Thank you for your reply. I have used exactly the same flash diffuser and camera set-up and I find that when using manual flash it overexposes 90% of the images. I have tried TTL with flash exposure compensation -1 or even -2 and camera in full manual and it produces excellent results. Have you tried TTL?
I haven’t tried TTL. Just put it in manual and lower the power until the image is properly exposed. TTL is very unpredictable and unreliable for macro.
Still trying to decide between the Sony 90mm macro, Sigma 105mm and this lens. I’m leaning towards this lens because of the 2:1 your photos are stunning! Just concerned about image shake with handheld but you seemed to do it very well with a flash
The 10mm in difference of focal length you will hardly notice. The major difference between these two is that the 100mm is much larger and heavier because it is made for DSLR cameras, and the 90mm is smaller because it is optimized for mirrorless cameras. If you have a DSLR buy the 100mm, otherwise get the 90mm.
So if you buy the e mount version you still get contacts and no manual aperture? In most lenses, only the Canon version has electronic aperture control while the same lens will have manual aperture control for all other mounts.
I use a Sony 100-400mm GM + 2x Extender + A7R3 for macros at a distance of 60cm or so. Interesting to see your option, and wonder if it can give (much) better results. The bigger subject distance does have benefits of allowing tripods and less chance of scaring the insect away. I always shoot handheld and use the natural light.
Hello Micael! Great review!)) I really like your channel! What do you think about a new macro lens 7artisans 60mm f2.8 Macro ?? It would be cool to watch your hand on review as a macro photography master =))
This is the first review I have seen of anyone hand holding this lens. Thank you! What do you think it's going to be like on the new Canon R5 with the in-body image stabilization (venus website says its available in Canon RF mount)?
I guess the experience would be very similar to the one I had using it on my Sony A7iii in this video. It is a similar sized camera which also has image stabilization. Image stabilization doesn’t make a huge difference by the way, if you are using a flash, which you should do anyway at these apertures.
I use a Sony a7 III, I have the Laowa 60mm f2.8 2:1 Macro lens for Sony. I just realized they make a 100mm full frame for the Sony a7 III. Would I be better off with the full frame 100mm? What is the better lens for macro photography. Thank you Mark.
Both the 60mm and the 100mm are great, and both of them work on full frame for macro photography. I personally prefer the 60mm because it is smaller and more lightweight. Check this video for more thoughts on this: ruclips.net/video/QBgJHQUSzxQ/видео.html
some reviews by other people are way too long, into detail where you are not able to even say / tell the difference. You do great with your own way and if you look around of other reviewers... many times they review 2 products for 45 min saying at the end of the review "both products are awesome" witch will not help to decide one way or the other many people anyway..so after 45 mins you are at the square one... Thank you for your videos.
I don't have it in fuji mount, but I expect it would work just as well as on any other camera. Not sure if they will release it in Fuji mount though, as it is a full frame lens. I would look at buying the 60mm version for Fuji.
I think the Sony 90mm is overpriced for what you get. But it is a great lens. Did not try the voigtländer either. Used to own the Tamron and it is great. But none of the lenses you mentioned go to 2x magnification, which makes them less interesting to me.
@@MicaelWidell understood..i like the reviews on the Laowa 2:1,originally wanted that as a first macro lens,but i may get that as my second macro lens.ive got the Sony A7III and the Sony A7RII,i think ill use the A7RII for macro due to how good the 42mp sensor is in detail...ive been looking at the newer Tamron sp 90mm f017,imagine it would be a good macro..
Bought this lens. Curious if you can check whether yours has "focus creep" when focusing at minimum distance (x2) pointing up? i.e. it will slowly move slightly down (to farther focus). Mine does it, one other person said theirs doesn't. Trying to find several others before I make the long drive to replace it. Thanks!
So,since youre using a flash,then stabilization isnt really needed and the flash acts as a shutter to freeze movement..did you keep and still use this lens?..ive seen reviews that say this lens is razor sharp..
I only loaned the lens from Venus Optics to do the review, had to return it afterwards :) This lens is excellent, but I prefer using the Laowa 60mm, because it is more lightweight.
Thanks for watching! Subscribe for weekly videos! More regular content from me in these places:
💌 newsletter: mwroll.com 🎞 instagram: instagram.com/mwroll
🪙 patreon: patreon.com/micaelwidell 🐦 twitter: twitter.com/micaelwidell
📷 the lens: bit.ly/mwlaowa100 (I always buy Laowa lenses from their website - fast and free shipping worldwide)
🌇 view and download all the photos from this video in full size - join my Patreon: www.patreon.com/posts/53124890
The camera I took all photos with: amzn.to/2IACPex
The grip extension I use for my camera: amzn.to/2INloqo
The flash I used for most of the photos in this video: amzn.to/2MHDNrY
The type of diffuser I use: amzn.to/2EVl32e
My camera strap: amzn.to/2NUNTmg
The adapter I used to fit the Canon EF lens on my Sony camera: amzn.to/2EVltWm
This video was filmed with this small action camera: amzn.to/2O154TD
And also with this M43 camera: amzn.to/2MuNt9i
Mic used for voiceover: amzn.to/2UBZb1i
I compare the lens with the Laowa 60mm 2x macro lens: amzn.to/2HeipWQ
And also with the 25mm 2.5-5x macro lens: amzn.to/2LCnKvg
Yes, I linked to a US one because most of my viewers are Americans. But the diffuser I *really* use is of the German brand DÖRR :) So go look for a DÖRR diffuser, it is sold in Sweden at least, and it is a German brand I think.
Would this work and more importantly make sense to use this lens with a crop sensor camera like my Canon 70 D? I believe it would give more than 2X, right?
Technically it gives you 2x no matter what sensor you use, but your subjects will cover more of the frame on APS-C cameras so yes the perceived magnification is bigger. I haven’t tried it on an aps-c camera but it would probably work good. Otherwise look at the 60mm lens from the same company which is made specifically for aps-c.
@@MicaelWidell It's worth checking out,I believe the magnification would be greater than 2X on an APSC camera , but the ratio 2:1 would still be the same.APSC will have a little bit more depth of field and Maybe -maybe more working distance.. Make sense?
Great review,and you answered questions right while I was thinking them! 2:1 sounds great with the working distance you demonstrated.
I have a fuji X-H1, would you still recommend this lens, bearing in mind I would need the relevant adapter? Thanks for any advice or help!
Holding your breath while lungs are full tends to make muscles shake. Hold your breath after breathing out is the actual method that phtotography classes teach and that olympic target shooters use.
Yes! Even for me, holding after breathing out works better, but it's a personal preference.
100% this never hold breath in
Thank you for this tip, I shoot with Nikon 200-500 & mostly handheld, this will save me shutter speed.
Wow so great someone who actually do good photography just telling something about his experience in using good gear. Love it!
thanks :)
The bokeh at 9:05 is just ridiculously nice! Very thorough review, thanks!
Handholding at 1/40 under those circumstances is the real wonder in this video. You have my utmost respect (and jealousy :) I'm really impressed by the lens as well. Well done real-world review.
The flash! He is using a flash...
He wears the ball cap backwards for function; the fact that it makes him look cool is just a side benefit! ;) Seriously, though, thank you for the review of this lens. I am very excited to add it to my collection. Your endorsement tipped me over the edge!
The function being: the bill of the hat stopping you from looking up past a certain angle? I cannot stand wearing a cap that way as it keeps bumping into my back and either falling off or stopping me from looking up in a normal fashion. I like a straw hat to protect me from sun. Air blows right through instead of a cap adding huge amounts of heat, and the smaller bill is enough to shade the camera screen but not so long so as to get in the way.
I'm looking hard at this macro lens for weeks now, and I was eagerly waiting for your review ;)
Thanks Micael !
Love that shot of the fly with the red background, amazing
The most simples tutorials from you....and they are really awesome. Thanks for sharing!!!!
Älskar verkligen dina videos! Lärt mig så mkt av dig! Tack!
because of this review and test, i pulled the trigger and bought the lens. thanks for making this video. it's so helpful!
Can't wait to get this lens. It should arrive tomorrow! Great review and demo
Great job Micael - I ordered the lens. I own and use frequently the Laowa 12mm F2.8 - love it, get some amazing compositions - great real estate, beach, mountain scape lens.
#billystayart (should have addrd this to my prev. comment) Side note: really like the inexspensive defuser AMAZON is out - found it at B&H for $9 bucks ( Interfit STR111 Strobies On-Camera Small Diffuser B&H # INSTR111 MFR # STR111) I have several diffusers but they are all bulky and get in the way when doing most macro... again.. NICE JOB, appreciate your passion and communication.
Hi Micael. As always an excellent video and amazing macro images. Could you help me answering this question? I understand this lens will work on a Nikon D5100, it is only necessary to consider the crop factor. But, which features would it lose on that body? Does it have to see with the EXIF Data? Thanks in advance.
Full manual control is precisely what I require as a macro photographer, I'm currently using a 150mm f2.8 macro lens for more skittish insects, things that you can't get that close to, also comes in very handy for wildlife shots used on an apsc camera.
Not sure if 100mm would cut it for me, looks pretty good though
Yep, coming from the Canon EF 180 to this lens was really frustrating for insect photography, but it is probably not an issue for someone that are used to shorter focal lengths, like Michael here.
I'm glad these videos exist cause the next lens I want to buy is definitely a macro one and I want to make sure the one I get is just right for me, thank you!
I have the 60mm 2x by Laowa and this one is gonna rock even more. Can't wait to get it :)
I bought this lens about three weeks ago and am learning to use it (I am learning much already watching your videos). I am grateful your review was so positive. I had considered several other options, but this one was economical and seemed to have a lot of support among those who have reviewed it.
Great to hear!
Hi Micael - great video! I've watched a few of your vidoes recently and have really liked them. I really want to get into macro photography, and had previously thought about buying the Tamron 90 mm 2.8 macro (the latest one - f017). However, the 2x of the Laowa is really attractive. My only doubt is the lack of image stabilization on the Laowa ( I don't see the lack of autofocus as a problem). For a beginner at macro photography, do you think this would be an issue? I shoot with a Canon APS-C body, so no IBS.
I don’t think lack of image stabilization is a big issue.
I loved how you kept it simple and interesting! Well done! Learnt a lot from this video on macro.
Hello Sir. I would like to ask, at 4:15 , are you shure you shot 1/40 ? or it was 1/400 ? please confirm since I am learning from your videos, thank you in advance.
Amazing shots ! Im think about this lens for my canon 90d. I have never done any macro photography before, are these images taken focus stacked or simply one shot ? Ive never done any focus stacking before. Great video !
All the shots in this video are single shots. Not focus stacked. You don’t need to do focus stacking to get nice photos.
Hi Micael, I bought one and am enjoying it, I don't find it very heavy, so thats good, thanks for your great videos, I really enjoy them
Abolutely incredible macro shots.
Hi Micael
I realize that this video is 4 years old now, but it's still current for people like me starting to get involved with macro photography.
Can you tell me how a camera with focus staking, focus stacks with a manual focus lens?
For the camera to perform automatic stacking, the lens needs an autofocus motor. But you can still do focus stacking with a manual lens, by taking photos in a rapid succession while moving the camera slowly. See my recent video on focus stacking for more details.
@@MicaelWidell practice practice practice...Thanks Micael
Nice work Micael, thanks for sharing... simple practical review ! keep up the good job and great photos...
Awesome real-life review! I also have a Sony (a7RIII).. I understand the Sony version doesn't have electrical contacts, thankfully I have a Metabones adapter too. I wish I didn't have to use it though! I haven't seen one review for the Sony version.
Do the Canon version's aperture blades stay open until you take the picture closed down? I doubt the Sony version will..
Anything you know on this would be very helpful! Thanks!
The diffuser that you are using in this video doesn't appear to be available anywhere. Do you know of a similar diffuser that is readily available? Thanks for this video I will most likely grab a copy of this lens very soon because of your no nonsense approach to the review!
Very interesting and thoughtful review of this Laowa 2X Ultra-Macro lens! I have it in the Nikon Z mount, and I agree that it is tack-sharp! One question...Have you noticed that the Focus "throw" is quite small/short? In other words, when I rotate the focus ring just slightly, the focus point moves alot! That said, when I do nail focus, it is indeed super-sharp! Thank you.
6:02 Tycker du fortfarande det är bättre att använda Dörr diffusor på enbart längre brännvidder som 100mm? Fungerar ju perfekt på 50mm macro, bara att ställa ner blixtstyrkan. :)
Micael, I have a canon 200d and just the kit lens. I have been trying to get some macro shots but I am struggling to get any good ones. Which cheap lens would you recommend for macro photography for my canon 200d?
For macro photography/videography do you recommend the 100mm or the 25mm with the 2.5x-5x? ( I usually take shots of the tiny intricate details of the watch movement )
Excellent review. Thank you. I have the Sony 90mm. I'm considering this lens. I notice you went with the Canon EF instead of the Sony FE version. Is that due to the lack of electronics? Thanks in advance.
I didn’t buy it but got to lend it from Venus optics. And if I remember correctly this was the only version they had on hand for me. It is true that the canon Ef version is the only one that comes with electrical coupling for aperture (it also comes without) while the Sony and all other versions only comes without electrical coupling.
@@MicaelWidell I bought the Sony FE version. It is phenomenal! Compared to the Sony 90mm it is much sharper. I won't be getting rid of the Sony 90 as I feel they are different enough to warrant having both. Again, thanks for the great review. Have a great day.
@@RicardoGomezToro happy to hear that 😀
Very good review ....Plz. dose this lens work and fit and compatible with Sony a 6500?
Hello Micael,
Do this lens works normal with lens adapter?
I currently have Fuji X-T2body and Canon RP.
I don't want to buy RF version because if I do so, I can only use the lens on my Canon RP but won't be able to use the lens on my Fuji X-T2. There is no lens adapter RF-FX yet exist.
So my first choice will be the EF mount full manual version.
I already have EF-RF adapter and also plan to buy Viltrox EF-FX.
Awesome pictures. Amazing review.
Have you tried the Voightlander 110 macro lens?? If so, what do you think compared to this one?
Many thanks. Great video. Covered all the things I needed. I'll probably be using the same setup with the FE lens. Loved the lighting setup. Nice shots!
I placed an Order on May 8 for Sony mount. But now I wrote to them to make change to Canon because of the Electronic Aperture. It looks that they did not sent the order yet, so they let me know about the Adapter and is still OK to change. I said Yes and is OK if they did not shipped yet. Then I ask when it would be ship. At this time no answer yet.
A couple more questions first , do you have any videos with the per gear 60 mm 2.8 the new version that the photos have not been stacked? and final question if I have a crop sensor Sony a 6000 and use the 60 mm pergear 2.8 would it be like using a 90 mm equivalent. Love your videos by the way very interesting I want to get into macro photography.
Yes all the photos in my video about the new pergear are also not stacked. Yes a 60mm lens on APS-C is equivalent to a 90mm lens on full frame.
Thank you for your wonderful videos on macro photography.
LOL.Every experienced photographer who wears a baseball cap like yours will flip it around sooner or later. I do it often.
Hey thanks for all your great videos. I am looking into this lens and wondered if the focus confirmation will work in this manual lens? (I mean whem Im focusing handheld if the focus dots in the viewfinder will light up when in focus? EOS 7dmkII)
Amazing channel and tips and ofcourse beautiful photos.
Hi, I liked your video,... What would be better the Laowa macro 25mm or this 100mm?
I made a video for you: ruclips.net/video/J7tmZ23ehCc/видео.html
Thank you Micael! If you had to decide between this and the Canon RF 100 2.8 - which one would you choose?
I think I would pick the Laowa. But it is a close call.
thx for the nice video! why do you use the adapter? is it that important to control the aperture via the camera? I just started at macro so I'm honestly curious why :)
I used the adapter because Venus Optics sent me the Canon EF version, and I wanted to use my Sony A7iii camera.
@@MicaelWidell thx for the answer! :)
People like that their photos have the aperture setting saved in the file as that info is usually published together with photos. If your camera has built in sensor stabilization then the focal length of the lens is important to make the effect work well so having the electronic contacts telling your camera the focal length saves you from entering that info manually when you attach the lens.
@@0ooTheMAXXoo0 thx for your answer! you just made me research how to change the focal length manually on my a7iii! I'm glad you made me aware of this!
Hi Micael! Thank you for the interesting videos. 👍🏻 Could you recommend please is it better to buy 60 mm or 100mm? Hello from Finland!
This video is for you: ruclips.net/video/QBgJHQUSzxQ/видео.html
Micael Widell many thanks for your prompt reply!
Awesome pictures! did You use focus stacking to make those photos?
No focus stacking in this video
Thank You so much for responding !!!!
I have this lens and I love it! It is as sharp as my Nikon 105mm f2.8 macro. This lens combined with the focus peaking and VR in my Z9 is outstanding! The price is nice too.
I can't wait to get my copy...thanks for the review.
Awesome video, i already ordered mine, can't wait to get my hands on it :)
great videol love it and lookout to get a 1:2 macrolense like this one soon too! your video helped me a lot!
I also wear my cap like that when I take photos! Good video thanks
Hey Micael, I love ur videos, i love taking photos, but i would like to start with macro photography :) , but i have Nikon D5200, do you think this kind of Laowa can work good with my Nikon ?..Thank you very much :)
Yes it would work great. But for that camera I would personally buy the Laowa 60mm lens, which is similar but smaller and lighter and made especially for APS-C DSLRs like yours.
@@MicaelWidell thank you so much 🙂
Many thanks; I've just 'discovered' your channel and I'm enjoying your 'macro' vlogs. I haven't begun macro photography yet, but I've hired an Olympus lens and I'm looking at flash and accessories. I can't find a diffuser like yours in Australia and your cyberphoto appear out of stock(and expensive if that's in Euros). Can you advise of a similar supplier? Thanks once again.
Mike in Oz
I am using Nikon 105mm 2.8 with Raynox 250DCR. But after watching I coult not wait to place an order of it. Thank you for video
How do you like the lens? I am a canon snob and didn’t think I could find anything sharper. Is this better than your Nikon?
Hi. You said that the Laowa 60mm is not for fullframe? In the Venuslens Webpage there is not 60mm macro for aps-c cameras
If you go here and read under specifications you will see that it is for APS-C, but that it works for full frame if you only do macro: bit.ly/mwlaowa60
I remember few years back when Laowa debut their cheap macro, people treat it like a joke.
But today...its freaking everywhere!
It got great reviews immediately. Laowa has a great reputation because of that first macro lens. I guess I never heard the jokes.
Nice video, I just got this lens for mi Nikon camera, just a question, at 0.53, the laowa 100 2.8 2x macro lens shows electric contacts on the mount , but the lens I got does not have any contacts to communicate with camera, Is that lens an auto focus lens?
This lens generally comes with NO elextrical contacts, however for Canon EF specifically there is a special version of this lens with electrical contacts so that the camera can adjust aperture. It does NOT have autofocus though.
Is that possible to make sharp photo on 2x magnification with flash on 1/180 f2.8?
Given the same focus distance, will the DoF differ between 2:1 and 1:1 magnification? Tx
Good review and the photos are so stunning. How is the lens perform in video mod? does it worth it for shooting products !!
I think this lens is great for videos and product photography.
Michael. which Venus Macro X2 do you recommend buying - the 100mm or the 60mm? thnks
Depends on your needs. If you prioritize light weight and small size, the 60mm is better. If you prioritize optical perfection and focusing on infinity on full frame, get the 100mm. Also check this video about why I prefer the 60mm: ruclips.net/video/QBgJHQUSzxQ/видео.html
The most steady hands we have during inhaling air. When we hold our breath there is significant shake correlated with heart beat. Try inhaling with steady pace for 3sec. Doctor tip 😉
Thanks I want to ask is there any button to shoot 1x magnification. I want to use this lens with my Bmpcc 4k and it has crop factor. So 2x will be too much for me. Is 1x shooting possible? Thanks
Great review/tips. Do you recommend this lens of the 60mm for a crop factor Nikon D5500 camera? I love the IQ but $499 seems high for a lens with no electronics at all in my Nikon. No AF, no VR, no way to control anything and only able to use in Manual mode. Any other lenses you recommend that might cost less?
For macro photography at high magnifications, autofocus and VR is not something you want to use anyway. If I were you I would buy this lens or the Laowa 60mm which is also great but smaller and more lightweight. If you want something dirt cheap look into the Meike 85mm. I have reviewed all of these lenses.
@@MicaelWidell Thanks. I just made an offer on the Meike! Question- does getting a fast macro lens even matter since most seem to be shooting at stepped down apertures anyway? I think F8-F16+ is popular to get some DOF. On the Nikon D5500 Crop- would this be a fully manual lens? I think my camera penalizes the user a lot for using a non-cpu lens. Will only work in manual mode with limited capability- same would be true if I used the Laowa.
Would you recommend their F/2.8 vs. their F/1.8 lens (not sure if that one is also Macro.)
Looking at the lens where it connects to the A7iii I cannot see any electrical contacts !? So is what you say wrong or am I missing something?!
Would you consider this macro lens to be superior to the Nikon Z-series Macro lenses? It's 1/2 the price. I have the Nikkor MC 105/2.8 S, but will also get the Venus Laowa if you think it's going to improve the image quality? Thanks
I personally would prefer a Laowa lens any day of the week
@@MicaelWidell Thank you for responding! Ordered!
Micael, hi, I recently bought a Laowa 100mm f2.8 macro and it's just great optically. I use it on a Canon 600D DSLR. However, I suspect some battery drain as it will flatten a new, freshly charged Duracell battery in less than a week if left attached (and unused) on the camera. My other Canon lenses do not do this. I wonder have you had any similar experiences with battery drain? Thanks, Nick
Didn't really notice that. But I only had this lens for a few days during the review.
Fantastic review, you are a true inspiration.
Älskar verkligen dina reviews! Denna verkar riktigt intressant, ska väga denna för- samt nackdelar mot Sony’s egna 90mm Marco 🤔
Hello friend Micael Widell on Photography.
We would ask you to activate the subtitling option because we do not understand much English in your video.
We are new to video with Macros.
We have this Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens for Canon EF (Auto Aperture) lens with the Metabones adapter for the Sony A7III and FX3 just like your setup.
Since we have updated Metabones we are experiencing problems:
- Sometimes it is possible to expose correctly with the iso and when we turn the camera off and on other times it goes completely dark and we have to raise the ISO to approximately 32000.
- The focus ring becomes zoom for some bad reason. We get closer to the object to focus, we turn the focus ring and as a result, apart from focusing, it provides us with zoom.
- Sometimes on the camera's display, the value of the diaphragm aperture that we are using disappears.
I wanted to know if you have also had these problems or it is all due to the update of the Metabones adapter.
I come to the conclusion that the Auto Opening system is not good, but when we bought it at B&H, there was no Manual Opening option.
I look forward to your help in your comments. Thank you,
If you have problems with a lens or camera, please ask the manufacturer and not me. I did not have any of these problems.
Hello Micael!
Will the Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO lens give a magnification of 3.2 for Canon APS-C camera? Thank you in advance for your answer!
The magnification will still be 2x since it is independent of sensor size. But I understand what you mean, and yes you will get a tighter framing with an APS-C camera that corresponds to 2*1.5 = 3x roughly
@@MicaelWidell Thank you! 🤗
8:23 ... sorry when you said 100mm is more light weight and smaller than 60mm, It’s confusing , as i saw your 60mm review video before which is the opposite. Can you explain it , maybe i’ve missed something.
The 60mm is smaller and lighter. I never said anything else. Perhaps you misunderstood.
Your demonstration of this lens's capabilities is very persuasive, with some great insect shots, but I really can't justify getting _another_ macro lens for my α7R setup - three is enough! However, that diffuser screen seems to be worth investigating... :)
Read the reviews on Amazon before you buy. YMMV with this gadget.
Would you recommend this over the "Canon EF 100mm f2.8L IS USM" + fitting extension tubes to reach higher magnifications? I'm looking to mostly get it for macro photography. Price wise in my scenario, they are the same.
Tack för en fin recension!
Honestly I cannot understand why on earth you would buy the Canon 100mm with extension tubes? That solution would be very unflexible, as you would have a very narrow magnification range. Also the extension tubes would make the whole setup wobbly, long, and unbalanced. With the Laowa lens you have everything from infinity to 2x.
@@MicaelWidell Tack för svar Micael. Kom fram till en liknande slutsats mha dina videos :)
Which Canon EF version to get? Manual, or auto aperture?
I don't understand.
I read different things about it.
Some say auto aperture is an advantage, others say it's a disadvantage.
I read that with one of those version you can have a dark image when looking through the viewfinder, which makes it hard to make a good composition and difficult to get focus right.
I need to be able to see clearly through the viewfinder (i use Canon 6D) so i can see what i'm doing, which version should i get?
Qual você comprou?
Hello! Do you use lens correction in Lightroom? I can't find the lens profile :(
No. What would you need correction for? The lens is perfect optically as far as I can see.
Hi I have a sigma 105mm macro lens but want to upgrade is this lens a good upgrade
Hi Micael,
In the set-up in this video your on camera flash is in TTL or manual? If in manual, what power range you use on the flash in this video?
Thank you if advance for your replay and help.
Always manual. Power around 1/4-1/16
@@MicaelWidell, Thank you for your reply. I have used exactly the same flash diffuser and camera set-up and I find that when using manual flash it overexposes 90% of the images. I have tried TTL with flash exposure compensation -1 or even -2 and camera in full manual and it produces excellent results. Have you tried TTL?
I haven’t tried TTL. Just put it in manual and lower the power until the image is properly exposed. TTL is very unpredictable and unreliable for macro.
@@MicaelWidell,thanks will try again
Still trying to decide between the Sony 90mm macro, Sigma 105mm and this lens. I’m leaning towards this lens because of the 2:1 your photos are stunning! Just concerned about image shake with handheld but you seemed to do it very well with a flash
Image stabilization is not very relevant in macro photography. See here ruclips.net/video/MREYOL2NkSs/видео.html
What did you end up buying? I'm also trying to decide between the two lenses you mentioned.
So cool photos!! Can takes a Nikon D5600 similar quality photos with this lens?
Yes I think any camera made in the last 10 years will be able to.
@@MicaelWidell thank you!
My 100mm has a layer of grease inside the barrel, is this normal?? Does yours have this too?
is there a big difference between 90mm and 100mm? is it better to get the 100 to have everything closer?
The 10mm in difference of focal length you will hardly notice. The major difference between these two is that the 100mm is much larger and heavier because it is made for DSLR cameras, and the 90mm is smaller because it is optimized for mirrorless cameras. If you have a DSLR buy the 100mm, otherwise get the 90mm.
@@MicaelWidell thank you so much
For my first Macro lens - would this be a good choice for all around insects, portrait and product photography? Thanks!
Yes
Are you focus stacking or is that straight out the camera?
In this video none of the photos are stacked
This would be nice second lens 😍 Now I own Tamron 90mm f2.8 1:1 macro
SwitchRich Do you have instagram for examples?
So if you buy the e mount version you still get contacts and no manual aperture? In most lenses, only the Canon version has electronic aperture control while the same lens will have manual aperture control for all other mounts.
Excellent close-up detail, well done.
I use a Sony 100-400mm GM + 2x Extender + A7R3 for macros at a distance of 60cm or so. Interesting to see your option, and wonder if it can give (much) better results. The bigger subject distance does have benefits of allowing tripods and less chance of scaring the insect away. I always shoot handheld and use the natural light.
Hello Micael! Great review!)) I really like your channel! What do you think about a new macro lens 7artisans 60mm f2.8 Macro ?? It would be cool to watch your hand on review as a macro photography master =))
Would be fun to try it, perhaps I should ask them for a review copy :)
Do you think the Canon EOS R50 with this 100mm laowa lens can record sharp macro videos as well?
Yes definitely. But for that camera I would buy the Laowa 65mm which is very similar but smaller and optimized for mirrorless APS-C cameras!
Thank you so much! so the autofocus isn't required for macro videos?@@MicaelWidell
and which flash could you recommend?
This is the first review I have seen of anyone hand holding this lens. Thank you! What do you think it's going to be like on the new Canon R5 with the in-body image stabilization (venus website says its available in Canon RF mount)?
I guess the experience would be very similar to the one I had using it on my Sony A7iii in this video. It is a similar sized camera which also has image stabilization. Image stabilization doesn’t make a huge difference by the way, if you are using a flash, which you should do anyway at these apertures.
@@MicaelWidell thanks! That explains your low shutter speeds!
I use a Sony a7 III, I have the Laowa 60mm f2.8 2:1 Macro lens for Sony. I just realized they make a 100mm full frame for the Sony a7 III. Would I be better off with the full frame 100mm? What is the better lens for macro photography. Thank you Mark.
Both the 60mm and the 100mm are great, and both of them work on full frame for macro photography. I personally prefer the 60mm because it is smaller and more lightweight. Check this video for more thoughts on this: ruclips.net/video/QBgJHQUSzxQ/видео.html
some reviews by other people are way too long, into detail where you are not able to even say / tell the difference. You do great with your own way and if you look around of other reviewers... many times they review 2 products for 45 min saying at the end of the review "both products are awesome" witch will not help to decide one way or the other many people anyway..so after 45 mins you are at the square one... Thank you for your videos.
Thanks for the review. I like it. I am also interested in how this lens work on Fuji camera. Do you plan to try?
I don't have it in fuji mount, but I expect it would work just as well as on any other camera. Not sure if they will release it in Fuji mount though, as it is a full frame lens. I would look at buying the 60mm version for Fuji.
Does the fstop affects the ability to do 2x magnification?
Nice explanation about the cap 😂 it looks like a very good lens. Did you make any stacking?
I didn’t do any stacking with this particular lens
@@MicaelWidell thank you
Curious,have you used the Sony 90mm g oss or the Voigtlander apo 110?just curious..im still researching,ive even looked at the Tamron 90mm SP f017..
I think the Sony 90mm is overpriced for what you get. But it is a great lens. Did not try the voigtländer either. Used to own the Tamron and it is great. But none of the lenses you mentioned go to 2x magnification, which makes them less interesting to me.
@@MicaelWidell understood..i like the reviews on the Laowa 2:1,originally wanted that as a first macro lens,but i may get that as my second macro lens.ive got the Sony A7III and the Sony A7RII,i think ill use the A7RII for macro due to how good the 42mp sensor is in detail...ive been looking at the newer Tamron sp 90mm f017,imagine it would be a good macro..
Bought this lens. Curious if you can check whether yours has "focus creep" when focusing at minimum distance (x2) pointing up? i.e. it will slowly move slightly down (to farther focus). Mine does it, one other person said theirs doesn't. Trying to find several others before I make the long drive to replace it. Thanks!
Sorry I do not have it in my possession anymore. I just had it for a week to make the review.
So,since youre using a flash,then stabilization isnt really needed and the flash acts as a shutter to freeze movement..did you keep and still use this lens?..ive seen reviews that say this lens is razor sharp..
I only loaned the lens from Venus Optics to do the review, had to return it afterwards :) This lens is excellent, but I prefer using the Laowa 60mm, because it is more lightweight.