it’s WIDE, it’s TINY, and it’s FULL FRAME. The new LAOWA 15mm f/5 Cookie Lens!

I’ve been exploring compact lenses for my LUMIX S9, my go-to “every day carry camera” (EDCC). Today, I’m reviewing the Venus Optics - Laowa 15mm f/5 “Cookie” lens, an ultra-wide, ultra-compact option that offers both fun and functionality.

Enjoy the video, the words and the photos below!

Key Features:

• Mount Options: Available in L-Mount, Leica M, Canon RF, Sony E, and Nikon Z.
• Size & Weight:
• L-Mount version: 140g without lens hood, 145g with it.
• Depth: 34mm (42mm with lens hood).
• Sony/Nikon versions are slightly larger and heavier (10mm deeper, +34g).
• Aperture: f/5 to f/22. Manual aperture control for L, M, and RF; electronic for E and Z mounts.
• Focus: Fully manual, 12cm closest focusing distance.
• Build: Matte black or silver finish. Includes lens shade.
• Field of View: 110°, ultra-wide.

Performance Insights:

• Sharpness: Impressively sharp edge-to-edge, even wide open at f/5.
• Vignetting: Strong across all apertures, but decreases as you stop down.
• Color Shift: Edges show slight blue/green tint compared to center. Adds character rather than being a flaw.
• Curvature: Minimal distortion — edges remain clean and straight.
• Closest Focus: 12cm is useful for creative shots, though not macro-level.

Likes:

• Tiny and pocketable for an ultra-wide lens.
• Excellent sharpness, particularly edge-to-edge.
• Unique character with natural vignetting.
• Pairs beautifully with X-Pan crop on LUMIX cameras.

Compromises:

• f/5 aperture isn’t fast — you'll need higher ISO in low light
• Vignetting and minor color shift, though fixable in post.

If you’re into shooting ultra-wide but want a lens that fits in your pocket, the?Laowa 15mm “Cookie”?delivers. It’s not for every photo, but its unique field of view, sharp edges, and compact design make it a great addition for any L-Mount shooter.

Hey there reader… if you got this far, do me a favor and comment below? I'm really curious how many people actually read these things vs just click on the video. Thanks!