Venus Optics continues to expand its specialist macro lineup with the release of the Laowa 90mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO in Micro Four Thirds mount.
Previously available only for full-frame mirrorless systems, the lens now brings its extreme close-up capabilities and apochromatic optics to MFT shooters, including cinematographers working with compact, lightweight camera rigs.
Designed for users who demand maximum detail and optical precision, the Laowa 90mm f/2.8 offers true 2:1 macro reproduction.
Image Credit: Venus Optics
When paired with the 2x crop factor of the Micro Four Thirds format, this translates into an impressive 4x full-frame equivalent magnification.
Built for High Resolution Macro Imaging and Video Work
At the core of the lens is a sophisticated optical design featuring 13 elements in 10 groups. As a dedicated apochromatic lens, it is engineered to suppress both longitudinal and lateral chromatic aberration to near zero.
This is especially valuable for macro video, where color fringing can quickly become distracting in high contrast scenes or when shooting wide open at f/2.8.
The lens also uses a 9 blade aperture to produce smooth background falloff, making it suitable not only for macro work but also for compressed portrait style shots.
On MFT cameras, the 90mm focal length delivers a 180mm full-frame equivalent field of view, offering strong subject separation and a cinematic look even outside traditional macro scenarios.
Image Credit: Venus Optics
MFT Optimized Workflow With Electronic Aperture
Unlike many specialist macro lenses, the MFT version of the Laowa 90mm f/2.8 integrates electronic contacts for auto aperture control.
This allows filmmakers and photographers to adjust aperture directly from the camera body, while also ensuring EXIF data is properly recorded.
The electronic integration also improves compatibility with in-body image stabilization systems, which can be especially helpful when shooting handheld macro video.
An internal focusing design keeps the lens length constant during operation.
With a minimum working distance of 205mm, shooters can maintain consistent lighting setups without the lens extending toward the subject, a practical advantage when working with insects, small products, or controlled tabletop scenes.
Image Credit: Venus Optics
Compact and Rig Friendly Design
Despite being originally designed for full-frame coverage, the Laowa 90mm f/2.8 remains relatively compact on Micro Four Thirds bodies.
Weighing approximately 540g and measuring 115mm in length, it fits well into lightweight MFT cinema rigs, gimbal setups, and field kits. This makes it a practical choice for creators who need mobility without sacrificing optical performance.
Pricing and Availability
The Laowa 90mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO for Micro Four Thirds will be available starting February 29, 2026.
The U.S. retail price is set at $449, positioning it as an accessible entry point into high magnification macro imaging for both photographers and filmmakers.
[source: Venus Optics]
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