Venus Optics Launches Laowa 24mm f/2 Tilt-Shift Lens in China, Global Release Pending

In China, Venus Optics has introduced the Laowa T/S 24mm f/2 lens, although it has yet to be officially revealed in the U.S. This lens is currently available through online platforms such as AliExpress, priced higher than Laowa's other tilt-shift options and the official Chinese rate. The popularity of tilt-shift lenses has grown, largely attributed to Laowa's initiatives. The 24mm f/2 T/S stands out for its speed, outpacing Nikon’s PC-E Nikkor 24mm f/3.5 and Canon’s 24mm f/3.5 by over a stop, potentially opening new avenues for mirrorless camera users, including astrophotography. Compatible with E, Z, RF, and L-Mount full-frame cameras, as well as GFX and XCD medium-format systems, it maintains full movement range on medium-format bodies, according to Canon Addict. Comprising 13 elements in 10 groups, it includes five ED elements, two aspherical elements, and four high-refractive-index elements, along with a 14-bladed aperture. Weighing 860 grams (30.3 ounces), it accepts 77mm filters, allows +/- 12mm shift and +/- 10mm tilt, and features a rotating lens mount for easy orientation adjustments. The lens is priced at RMB 7,650 (approximately $1,140) in China, a competitive figure that could be influenced by tariffs; for comparison, the Laowa 17mm f/4 Zero-D Tilt-Shift retails for $1,249 in the U.S. The timeline for a global launch remains uncertain, but anticipation is high among mirrorless camera enthusiasts, as there is currently no comparable product available.