Laowa lens brings the GFX-Factor

Posted on Dec 14, 2022

This ultra-compact lens puts the world in your hands. For architecture, landscape and astrophotographers

This medium format ultra-wide lens is one of the smallest in its class, weighing only 546g. The 19mm f/2.8 Zero-D GFX is characterised by a large aperture and is capable of capturing AoV of 110° with zero distortion. This makes it perfect for shooting in lower light and creating that pleasing out-of-focus background we love.

If you’re looking for a 10-point sunstar, this can be rendered from the five aperture blades by stopping down the aperture. You can also use filters without the burden of a filter holder thanks to the 77mm filter thread. Shooting close to the subject can be tricky, but the 19mm has a minimum focusing distance of 18cm. The perfect partner for on-the-go landscape, architecture, or Astro shoots.

Interestingly, the lens is equivalent to about 15mm on a full-frame sensor format; the GFX possesses the larger medium format sensor. This creates an exaggerated sense of extension and is very helpful when shooting space is tight – shooting between buildings for example.

Product images - click to enlarge

The fast aperture of course comes in handy in low light settings, without bumping the ISO up too high. This also gives the option for better background separation with the subject.

The remarkable close-to-zero distortion, which is especially useful in architecture or interior photography. All straight lines are retained, reducing the amount of post-shoot editing required.

A low focusing distance allows you to get up close and personal with the subject, creating captivating images. It retains the background information of the scene, giving depth.

Like the Laowa 14mm f4 FF RL Zero-D is the focusing adjustment system. This makes it easier to adjust the focus marking against their own cameras. The actual infinity marking can be calibrated exactly on the infinity mark – helpful when shooting in the field, especially with astrophotography.

Sample images - click to enlarge