 |
Update (11:30 EST, January 20): Venus Optics has confirmed to DPReview that it’s working on not just one, but multiple F0.95 lenses. A Venus Optics spokesperson says Venus Optics does ‘not have further information about these lenses’ at this time and concluded their statement saying ‘As usual, we are just trying to create something unique, good quality and affordable for photographers.’ The headline of this article has been changed to reflect this confirmation.
According to a report from FujiAddict, Venus Optics, manufacturer of the Laowa lens brand, is working on a new ultra-fast F0.95 lens for DSLR and mirrorless full-frame and APS-C camera systems.
FujiAddict’s report, which says the lens will be denoted by the ‘Argus’ moniker, is substantiated by an image posted to Chinese social media platform Weibo that claims to show a frame from a presentation that simply shows the words ‘Laowa F0.95.’ At this time, no information is given regarding the focal length or specific mounts this purported lens will be available for. However, FujiAddict claims ‘Many are speculating it will be wide and my contact says they expect it to be between 20–35mm.’
As noted in the report, Venus Optics isn’t the first third-party lens manufacturer to create an ultra-fast prime lens. In addition to the legendary Leica Noctilux F0.95 lens, SLR Magic has a slew of ‘HyperPrime’ lenses for both still and cinema photography.
We have contacted Venus Optics in an effort to confirm this report. This article will be updated accordingly if we hear back.
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)