Laowa unveils the Aksen series of parfocal ultra macro lenses: the 45mm f/2.8 and 17.5mm f/1.7 models. The 45mm lens offers a magnification range from 1x to 5x, while the 17.5mm provides a range from 5x to 10x, both maintaining fixed working distances of 40.35mm and 22.48mm respectively. These lenses feature internal zoom mechanisms that keep the barrel stationary during magnification changes. The 45mm lens measures 70.2 by 121mm, weighs 599 grams, and costs $749 for photographers or $1,499 for filmmakers. The 17.5mm model is slightly larger at 70.2 by 127.5mm and weighs 570 grams.
LAOWA AKSEN SERIES LAUNCHED
Laowa has introduced two new parfocal ultra macro lenses as part of the Aksen series: the 45mm f/2.8 and the 17.5mm f/1.7. The 45mm lens offers a magnification range from 1x to 5x, making it ideal for detailed close-ups without losing focus when adjusting zoom. With its 9-group design featuring 13 elements, it provides sharp images across the aperture range of f/2.8 to f/11.
The 17.5mm lens is designed with a wider magnification range from 5x to 10x and includes an 8mm coaxial light adapter for improved lighting in tight macro shots. Its 12-group design houses 17 elements, allowing it to maintain quality even at the smallest aperture setting of f/5.6. Both lenses feature a parfocal design that ensures consistent focus during zoom changes, which is crucial when shooting intricate details on set.
Venus Optics has also released another macro lens: the 85mm f/5.6 APO, the smallest 2x macro for full frame cameras. This addition to Laowa's lineup offers cinematographers and photographers more options for capturing detailed images in various lighting conditions.
MACRO LENSES FOR ULTRA CLOSE-UPS
Laowa's new Aksen series includes two ultra macro lenses: the 17.5mm f/1.7 and the 45mm f/2.8. The 17.5mm lens offers a magnification range from 5x to 10x, making it ideal for extreme close-up shots. It comes with an 8mm coaxial light adapter, enhancing lighting in tight macro scenarios. This lens does not accept rear filters but has a front filter diameter of 42mm. For PL mount users, the same model includes the ability to mount 37mm rear filters and features a front filter diameter of 56mm.
Photographers can purchase the 17.5mm f/1.7 for $749, while filmmakers will pay $1,499. The lens's parfocal design ensures consistent focus during zoom changes, which is crucial when shooting intricate details on set. This feature simplifies adjustments and keeps focus steady as you move through magnification levels. On a shoot, this means less time adjusting and more time capturing detailed moments without losing sharpness or focus stability.
FIXED WORKING DISTANCE DESIGNS
The Laowa Aksen 45mm f/2.8 1-5x Ultra Macro APO lens features a fixed working distance design that does not change during zooming or focusing. This ensures photographers and filmmakers can maintain consistent focus when adjusting magnification levels without altering the shooting position. The lens measures 70.2 by 121mm, weighing in at 599 grams, making it portable yet sturdy enough for detailed work.
In contrast, the Laowa Aksen 17.5mm f/1.7 5-10x Ultra Macro APO maintains a fixed working distance of 22.48mm throughout its magnification range and focusing adjustments. This lens measures 70.2 by 127.5mm, weighing 570 grams. Its front filter diameter is 42mm for mirrorless cameras or 56mm for PL mount users who can also mount rear filters of 37mm. The fixed working distance design simplifies the process on set, allowing for precise and consistent shots without the need to move the camera or adjust focus settings frequently.
RENTAL IMPLICATIONS FOR DPs
The Laowa Aksen series lenses offer a fixed working distance that remains constant during zooming and focusing, which is crucial for maintaining consistent focus when shooting detailed work. The 40.35mm fixed distance on the 1-5x range allows filmmakers to stay in one position while adjusting magnification levels without losing focus stability or sharpness. This feature simplifies adjustments on set by eliminating the need to reposition the camera frequently, making it ideal for precise and detailed shots.
The tripod collar designed specifically for these lenses is Arca-Swiss compatible, allowing users to attach a variety of accessories via 15mm rods. This versatility enables DPs to mount additional equipment like external monitors or lighting setups without compromising stability. The fixed working distance design ensures that even as magnification levels change, the lens barrel remains stationary, reducing the risk of accidental focus changes due to camera movement. This makes it easier for operators and cinematographers to maintain consistent framing and composition throughout a shoot.
