Forget about pancake lenses; Venus Optics, the Chinese company behind the Laowa brand, is on a mission to make cookie lenses popular. In 2022, they introduced the Laowa 10 mm f/4 Cookie for APS-C cameras, and now they’ve launched the Laowa 15 mm f/5 Cookie FF, aimed at full-frame photographers. While pancake lenses are known for their slim design, this new cookie lens is compact in both width and length, sporting a broader base where it attaches to the camera.
Compatibility and Features
This lens is designed for Sony E and Nikon Z cameras featuring an auto-aperture mode, while Canon RF, Leica M, and L Mount users will find a manual aperture ring. The golden contacts that allow for auto-aperture also assist Sony and Nikon cameras in recording aperture settings within the EXIF data.
Different Mount Designs
In contrast to many multi-mount lenses, the appearance of this one changes based on the mount type. For instance, the Sony E model measures ø53 x 35.2 mm and weighs 138 g, whereas the Leica M version is ø53 x 25 mm and weighs only 104 g. You can choose from black or silver finishes for all versions.
Ideal for Content Creators
The Laowa 15mm f/5 Cookie has a 110° angle of view and a minimum focusing distance of 12 cm, making it an attractive option for content creators looking for a video lens for POV shots, as well as for classic wide-angle photography. Notably, the lens produces a 10-point starburst effect when stopped down and directed at bright light sources. Additionally, it includes a 39 mm filter thread for creative filter applications.
The Laowa 15mm f/5 Cookie FF lens can be purchased for $399 on Venus Optics’ official website. Alternatively, if you’re interested in a more straightforward interpretation of the “cookie lens” idea, there’s a lo-fi, focus-free body cap lens available on Amazon for just $26.
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