Laowa 105mm f/2 STF Lens - Sony FE

Laowa 105mm f/2 STF Lens – Smooth Trans Focus for creamy bokeh on Sony FE

The Laowa 105mm f/2 STF is a purpose-built lens for Sony FE full-frame cameras. It uses Smooth Trans Focus (STF) technology, including an apodization (APD) element, to deliver exceptionally smooth and creamy background bokeh. Photographers who specialise in portraits, event, and fine art photography will find this lens useful for producing strong subject separation and pleasing out-of-focus highlights.

Designed uses and creative benefits

This 105mm focal length provides a flattering perspective for portraiture. In addition, the STF construction helps you isolate subjects and create dreamlike background rendering. Consequently, you can achieve artistic, shallow-depth-of-field images while maintaining accurate color and strong image clarity.

Optical design and performance

The lens features an advanced optical layout: 11 elements arranged in 8 groups. It also offers an aperture range from f/2 to f/22. Together, these characteristics support high sharpness, contrast, and faithful colour reproduction. The apodization (APD) element is the core of the Smooth Trans Focus design and is responsible for the distinctive soft bokeh quality.

Handling and build

The Laowa 105mm f/2 STF uses a manual focus design. This allows precise, deliberate focus control ideal for portrait and fine art shooting where accuracy matters. The lens also has a solid metal housing, which enhances durability and provides a reliable feel for professional use.

Key Features

• 105mm Portrait Focal Length: Ideal for portraits and artistic photography, creating a flattering perspective and beautiful subject separation.
• Smooth Trans Focus (STF) Technology: Incorporates an apodization element for exceptionally soft and creamy bokeh.
• Bright f/2 Aperture: Excellent performance in low-light conditions, providing increased flexibility and creative control.
• Manual Focus Design: Precise manual focus for meticulous control and accuracy.
• Durable Build: Solid metal construction ensures reliable performance under demanding shooting conditions.
• 14-Blade Aperture: Delivers outstanding, smooth bokeh with virtually circular highlights.
• Exceptional Optical Quality: Advanced optical construction for optimal sharpness, contrast, and accurate color reproduction.

What’s in the box

• Laowa 105mm f/2 STF Lens
• Front Lens Cap
• Rear Lens Cap
• Lens Hood

Specifications

FAQ

Question: How does the STF (apodization) element affect my images?
Answer: The APD element smooths the transition between in-focus and out-of-focus areas, producing creamy, rounded highlights and softer bokeh. This makes backgrounds appear more painterly while keeping the subject crisp when focused correctly.

Question: Is this lens suitable for low-light shooting?
Answer: Yes. The lens has a bright f/2 maximum aperture, which allows more light into the camera and gives you greater flexibility in low-light situations. However, the STF element shapes bokeh rather than increasing light transmission beyond the f/2 specification.

Question: Can I use autofocus with this lens on Sony FE bodies?
Answer: No. The Laowa 105mm f/2 STF uses a manual focus design. You will need to focus manually, which many portrait and fine art photographers prefer for precise control.

Question: What accessories are included when I buy this lens?
Answer: The package includes the Laowa 105mm f/2 STF Lens, a front lens cap, a rear lens cap, and a lens hood, so you can start shooting and protect the lens right away.