Laowa 105mm f/2 Smooth Trans Focus (STF)

The LAOWA 105mm f/2 Smooth Trans Focus Lens incorporates a unique optical design with an Apodization (APD) element next to the aperture. The APD element resembles the function of an ND filter which becomes thicker towards the outer edge, gradually reducing the amount of light transmission towards the periphery to produce a soft, natural and beautifully diffused out-of-focus rendition (or called “bokeh”).

The unique design of the LAOWA 105mm f/2 Smooth Trans Focus Lens incorporates two separate diaphragms. The stepless 14-bladed perfectly circular aperture, in conjunction with the apodization element, gives this lens the ability to produce smooth and pleasing bokeh. It is also useful for videographers to control the amount of light passing through the lens. The 8-bladed aperture determines the effective aperture opening (f-number) and the depth-of-field.

© Masakazu Shibata

© Masakazu Shibata

© Helge Hackbarth

The lens has 11 elements in 8 groups with one High Refractive element, three Low Dispersion elements and one Apodization element. This optical design is proven to deliver images with extreme sharpness and well controlled chromatic aberrations. The barrel of the lens is made of metal to strengthen its durability.

Awards & Recognitions

Compared to 100mm f/2 DC by other manufacturers, this is the best Bokeh lens on the market. The APD element allows the LAOWA 105mm f/2 STF to have a softly diffused edge on the bokeh.

Comparison (Left: Laowa, Right: Others)

Chromatic Aberration Comparison at 100% Crop (Left: Laowa, Right: Others). Look at the purple fringe on the right image.

Continue the Bokeh Comparison (Left: Laowa, Right: Others)