Laowa AF 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D FF Lens for Nikon Z

Laowa AF 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D FF Lens for Nikon Z Summary

The ultra-wide Laowa AF 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D FF for Nikon Z is a full-frame mirrorless lens that combines a 122° rectilinear angle of view with autofocus and a compact mirrorless-optimised design. It builds on Laowa’s ZERO-D low-distortion optics while reducing size and weight compared with the earlier DSLR ultra-wide design.

On full-frame Nikon Z cameras, it offers a 122° field of view and a bright f/2.8 aperture, alongside a 14cm minimum focusing distance that allows close foreground emphasis with dramatic compositions.

A built-in 72mm filter thread removes the need for large filter systems that are often associated with ultra-wide optics. At approximately 377g for Nikon Z mount, this lens is very portable despite delivering high performance results, which are suited to landscapes, interiors, night photography and architecture.

This all-around ultra-wide optic is useful where minimal distortion, wide coverage and manageable size are benefits.

Laowa AF 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D FF Key Features

• Full-frame 12mm autofocus ultra-wide lens with 122° rectilinear angle of view
• Zero-D optical design maintains minimal distortion
• Bright f/2.8 aperture supports low-light and night photography
• Minimum focusing distance of 14cm for close foregrounds
• Compact mirrorless design that weighs 377g in Nikon Z mount
• Built-in 72mm filter thread supports standard screw-in filters
• 5-blade aperture for 10-point sunstars
• Improved sharpness and reduced chromatic aberration compared with the original

Note: A faint operational sound may be audible during focusing when the aperture is stopped down; this does not affect optical performance.

Laowa AF 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D FF Lens for Nikon Z in More Detail

Ultra-wide rectilinear coverage

A 122° angle of view places this lens among the widest rectilinear options available for full-frame mirrorless systems. Unlike fisheye designs, straight lines remain straight, which is critical when photographing architecture or interiors.

The 12mm focal length exaggerates spatial relationships while retaining usable proportions. This makes it suitable for real estate, landscape foregrounds and environmental compositions where scale and depth are central to the image.

Zero-D optics

Laowa’s Zero-D design keeps geometric distortion to a minimum, reducing the need for heavy correction in post-processing. Architectural edges and interior lines retain their shape, simplifying workflow and preserving resolution across the frame.

Compared with the earlier DSLR-based 12mm f/2.8, the Lite version improves edge sharpness and reduces chromatic aberration. In high-contrast scenes such as backlit skylines or night cityscapes, colour fringing is better controlled, particularly towards the edges of the frame.

Autofocus operation

This version introduces autofocus support for Nikon Z, expanding usability for fast-moving situations or handheld work. Focus acquisition is reliable for landscapes, interiors and general scene capture, where precise framing and timing matter.

With a 14cm minimum focusing distance, the lens supports close foreground placement. Ultra-wide close focusing can create strong depth and scale effects, especially when placing subjects near the front element while retaining broad background coverage.

Aperture and low light performance

The f/2.8 maximum aperture provides flexibility in low-light environments such as night cityscapes and astrophotography. At 12mm, depth of field remains extensive even at wider apertures, but f/2.8 allows lower ISO settings and faster shutter speeds compared with slower ultra-wide alternatives.

Depending on the selected version, the lens is available with either a 5-blade aperture that produces defined 10-point sunstars, or a 14-blade version that renders smoother out-of-focus highlights. This choice allows photographers to prioritise starburst effects or more rounded bokeh characteristics.

Compact design with filter compatibility

The mirrorless-optimised design significantly reduces size and weight compared with the older DSLR version. At approximately 377g in Nikon Z mount, it remains portable and well suited to travel and field use.

A built-in 72mm filter thread allows the use of standard circular filters such as ND or polarising filters. This avoids large square filter holders that are common with ultra-wide lenses lacking front threads, simplifying landscape and outdoor setups.

Frequently asked questions

Does this lens have autofocus?

Yes, it supports autofocus on Nikon Z mirrorless bodies.

What is the angle of view?

It provides a 122° rectilinear angle of view on full-frame cameras.

Does it produce fisheye distortion?

No, it is a rectilinear design and maintains straight lines.

What is the closest focusing distance?

The minimum focusing distance is 14cm.

Can standard filters be attached?

Yes, it features a built-in 72mm filter thread.

How does it compare to the older 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D?

This Lite version is lighter, more compact, includes autofocus and adds a standard filter thread.

Is it suitable for astrophotography?

Yes, the 12mm focal length and f/2.8 aperture make it suitable for night sky photography.

What’s in the box

• Laowa AF 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D FF Lens for Nikon Z
• Front lens cap
• Rear lens cap

Laowa AF 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D FF Lens Specifications