Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5x Ultra Macro APO (Auto Focus) Canon EF

Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5X Ultra Macro APO – 1.5× tele-macro range with APO correction

Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5X Ultra Macro APO is an exceptional lens that combines telephoto range and high macro magnification in a compact and lightweight design. This lens is specifically designed for both professional and enthusiastic photographers working with shy subjects and detailed product setups. With its 180 mm focal length, it gives the photographer enough distance to capture even the most cautious subjects without disturbing them, making it the perfect tool for fieldwork and macro photography.

Main features at a glance

• 1.5× macro magnification: Capture details that go beyond life size and experience a new level of closeness.
• Minimum focusing distance: 30 cm with a generous working distance of 147.6 mm, allowing for easy lighting and framing of subjects.
• APO correction: The apochromatic optical design minimizes chromatic aberrations for cleaner colors and sharper details.
• Optical construction: 9 elements in 12 groups construction that ensures consistent sharpness and excellent texture reproduction, which is crucial for macro photographic images.
• Compact and lightweight: Weighs approximately 484 g for Canon EF and 522 g for Sony E, making it easy to handle and carry during longer shoots.
• Autofocus support: Supports autofocus on Sony E, Nikon Z, and Canon EF mounts, facilitating quick and precise focusing.
• EF to RF adapter: Enables autofocus when the lens is used on Canon RF cameras, increasing its versatility.
• Full-frame coverage: Image angle of 13.7° that provides clear compression of background elements, ideal for portraits and macro photography.
• Aperture: 9-blade aperture that provides smooth background bokeh and the ability to use filters with a Ø62 mm filter thread.
• Robust housing: Includes a function button, electronic contacts, and a USB-C port for firmware updates or service.
• Dimensions: EF mount — Ø67.6 × 88.4 mm; E-mount — Ø67.6 × 134.4 mm.

Optical construction and image reproduction

The apochromatic optical design of the Laowa 180mm f/4.5 creates a lens that effectively suppresses chromatic aberrations. This APO correction is crucial for ensuring pure and accurate color reproduction, which is necessary for capturing sharp and detailed images. The 9-element and 12-group construction focuses on reproducing fine textures, which is particularly important when working with macro photography. The f/4.5 aperture perfectly balances sharpness and background separation, ensuring that the subject stands out clearly even at reduced depth of field.

Practical handling and build quality

This 180 mm tele-macro lens offers a generous working distance, which is invaluable for photographing insects, small animals, and product details where lighting and careful composition are essential. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to take out into the field, rather than leaving it at home. The housing is robust and includes a function button as well as electronic contacts that enable communication with compatible camera bodies. Additionally, there is a USB-C port for easily updating firmware or getting service.

Autofocus and mount details

The lens supports autofocus on Sony E, Nikon Z, and Canon EF mounts, making it user-friendly and efficient for photographers who need quick focusing. Autofocus is activated by turning the focus ring to the infinity mark, making it easy to switch between manual and automatic focus.

Frequently asked questions

What type of macro magnification does the Laowa 180mm f/4.5 offer?
It offers 1.5× macro magnification, allowing you to capture details that go beyond life size.

What is the minimum focusing distance for this lens?
The minimum focusing distance is 30 cm with a working distance of 147.6 mm.

Which camera mounts does the Laowa 180mm f/4.5 support?
It supports autofocus on Sony E, Nikon Z, and Canon EF mounts.

How many elements and groups are included in the optical construction?
The lens has an optical construction consisting of 9 elements in 12 groups.