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The New Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D FF Lens

Venus Optics has just announced a lighter, more compact version of one of its most popular ultra-wides: the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D FF. This new model keeps the same extreme 122-degree field of view and rectilinear “Zero-D” design, meaning it stays distortion-free without the usual fisheye warp. What’s new this time around is the addition of autofocus (at least for Sony E and Nikon Z mounts) making this Laowa’s second-ever AF lens. The Canon RF and L-mount versions are still manual focus, but all versions share the same optical formula and build.

The new Lite version weighs 377 grams (0.83 lb), making it a great fit for travel, vlogging, and any lightweight kit. You still get the fast f/2.8 aperture, a very usable minimum focusing distance of 14cm, and a built-in 72mm filter thread. Laowa says this version offers better corner-to-corner sharpness and less chromatic aberration compared to the original 12mm f/2.8, a welcome improvement for anyone doing detailed architectural or astrophotography work.

Photographers can choose between two aperture blade designs: a 5-blade version that produces bold 10-point sunstars when stopped down, or a 14-blade version for smoother bokeh. The latter, though, is manual focus only. Regardless of mount or focus type, all versions are priced at $699.

You can see full details and sample shots on Venus Optic’s website here

Kono Manufaktur’s New Negative Film

Kono Manufaktur, the German film company released Kono Color 200, a new color negative film. Unlike their earlier films that often repurposed motion picture stock, this one uses a fresh emulsion developed from the ground up with a pro partner in Germany. It’s available in standard 36-exposure rolls, loaded into refurbished film cartridges, or as 30.5-meter bulk rolls if you’re into loading your own.

This new film isn’t just a product for the company, it’s also a bit of a celebration. In 2025, UNESCO recognized analog photography in Germany as an “intangible cultural heritage,” and Kono says Color 200 is their tribute to that legacy. It’s a C-41 color negative film rated at ISO 200, designed for everyone from casual shooters to serious DIYers. Kono even packaged and spooled the film using machinery they built themselves, which is a nice touch.

Kono started back in 2014, first releasing respooled cinematic stocks like Rotwild and Kolorit 400T, and quickly moved on to more experimental emulsions with names like Moonstruck, Galaxy, and Candy. With Color 200, they’ve now hit their 45th product, and they’re calling it a “world premiere”. The 36-exposure rolls are available for €9.90 (about $11.60), and while the bulk roll pricing is not listed yet, production is already running full steam.

You can see full details and sample shots on Kono Manufaktur’s website here

Photographer Spotlight

Discover amazing photographers

This time in the Spotlight: Ryan Pearce

You can find him on Instagram as: @rp.frames

A few photos of his:

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