Mew Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5x Ultra-Macro APO FE Lens for $499 at BHphoto , VenusStore .

Mark Wiemels calls the new Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5x Ultra-Macro APO one of the most unique and dramatic lenses he’s ever tested. It delivers extraordinary 1.5x macro performance with manual focus at close range, then switches to autofocus beyond 1.5m—ideal for portraits or even street photography.

Despite its high-end build and optical sharpness, it remains lightweight and affordable. Flare control is its only weak point, but if you can manage that, this lens opens creative doors rarely found in macro gear. Highly recommended for photographers looking to explore a different world—literally.