Venus Optics, the camera lens manufacturer who has been endeavoring to invent unique lenses, announces the second Laowa ultra-wide-angle lens with “Zero-D” for Micro Four Thirds cameras, Laowa 10mm f/2 Zero-D MFT. This “Zero-D” lens is extremely compact (4.4oz, 125g) and has a 96° Angle of view that makes it perfect for anyone who prefers a lightweight setup.

Laowa 10mm f/2 Zero-D MFT is an ultra-wide & ultra-fast prime lens with a 35mm equivalent focal length of around 20mm. With the enthusiastic response for the Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT and 9mm f/2.8 Zero-D, they decided to take a step forward to a relatively more versatile focal length but retain and further refine the outstanding optical design.

The 10mm lens is extremely compact and light in weight. It is compressed to be 41mm long and weighs only around 125g. The lens is designed with a 49mm filter thread which gives additional portability for screw-in filters. Its compactness makes itself comfortable for those who do videos with gimbals or handheld, avoiding excessive shaking. Photographers could bring it anywhere without taking up much space in the pocket.

Despite the small size, the lens consists of 11 elements in 7 groups with three pieces of extra-low dispersion glasses. As the second MFT lens in the line-up of ‘Zero-D’, it features an excellent control of the optical distortion which is commonly found in ultra-wide-angle lenses. Thanks to this optical advantage, this lens performs well with architectural and interior photography. The effort on post-production can be saved. A 10mm focal length also provides a more natural wide-angle look with 96°.

Laowa 10mm f/2 Zero-D MFT is assembled with a CPU chip and motor which allows the adjustment of aperture via the camera body. The focus magnifier will be triggered for easier focusing when rotating the focus ring. The metadata will be stored on EXIF as well.

Having the advantages brought by the ultra-fast f/2 aperture, the lens also delivers clear and crisp images in dimly lit situations. It works ideally in nightscape shooting and astrophotography. Moreover, it can easily render a creamy look at the out-of-focus area.

Here’s a gallery of sample images provided by Venus Optics:

The lens is available to purchase for $399.

More info on the Venus Optics’ website.