Cinema lens Venus Optics Laowa Nanomorph 1.5X Anamorphic for SLR, 15 elements/13 groups, black

The Venus Optics Laowa Nanomorph 1.5X Anamorphic for SLR is a compact cinema lens engineered for Super35 and APS-C mirrorless and SLR systems. Featuring a constant 1.5x anamorphic squeeze and an optical design of 15 elements in 13 groups, this black-finished lens delivers characteristic anamorphic aesthetics — oval bokeh, horizontal flares and a wider cinematic field of view — while remaining unusually small and lightweight for professional filmmaking. With a coverage suitable for Super35 and usable on some full-frame cameras with mild vignetting, the lens is designed to fit demanding setups including gimbals, drones and handheld rigs where traditional anamorphics are impractical.

Advantages

The Nanomorph combines a true anamorphic look with a compact NANO-sized form factor, weighing under 490 g and measuring about 64 mm in the EF/PL version. Its constant 1.5x squeeze avoids anamorphic mumps by maintaining a uniform squeeze at all focus distances. Three selectable flare styles (Amber, Blue, Silver) provide creative control over highlight character. The lens offers a relatively short close focusing distance for an anamorphic design, enabling closer framing and stronger background compression. Integrated 55 mm filter threads, interchangeable mounts on certain versions, and a unified focus gear make it practical for fast-changing production needs.

Suitable for

• Cinematic narrative and short films
• Documentary and run-and-gun video work with gimbals
• Aerial cinematography on weight-limited drones
• Tight-space shooting and POV setups (helmet, rigged cameras)
• Music videos and commercials requiring anamorphic flare and bokeh

Key specifications

• Anamorphic squeeze ratio: constant 1.5x
• Optical construction: 15 elements in 13 groups
• Designed coverage: Super35 / APS-C (usable on some full-frame bodies with mild vignetting)
• Weight: less than 490 g (approx. 1.08 lb)
• Length (EF/PL version): approx. 64 mm
• Three flare options: Amber, Blue, Silver
• Close focusing distance: relatively short for anamorphic lenses (enables close-up framing)
• Filter thread: 55 mm
• Mount options: interchangeable mounts available depending on version (EF/PL or mirrorless bayonet options)

How to use

Mount the lens on a compatible SLR or mirrorless camera using the appropriate bayonet. If the lens version includes interchangeable mounts, fit the required mount before attaching to the camera body. Set your camera to record in a native 16:9 or Super35 frame and apply a 1.5x de-squeeze in post or in-camera monitoring to achieve a 2.66:1 widescreen aspect after de-squeeze. Choose the desired flare option (Amber, Blue or Silver) by selecting or using lighting and highlights to produce the preferred flare character. Use the unified focus gear and standard 0.8 mod follow focus systems for precise focus control; fine-tune back focus with the included 0.9 mm hex key when changing camera bodies to maintain scale accuracy.

Usage recommendations

For optimal cinematic results, pair the lens with Super35 sensors and shoot at wider apertures to emphasize oval bokeh and shallow depth of field. Select the flare color to match the scene mood: Amber for warmer narrative tones, Blue for cooler or sci‑fi looks, and Silver when a more neutral flare response is desired. Consider the lens for handheld, gimbal or drone use when weight and size are limiting factors, and attach 55 mm filters directly for quick ND or diffusion control during run-and-gun shoots.