LAOWA has launched a new series of probe zoom macro lenses for full-frame cameras. Both the Venus Optics LAOWA 15-35mm T12 and Venus Optics LAOWA 15-24mm T8 feature an ARRI PL mount. However, you can swap that out for optional EF, RF, E, Z or L mounts, which you can purchase separately.
Lens options
Each LAOWA Probe Zoom lens is available in four different models, each with a different front barrel. You can opt for direct view, which works like any regular lens. You can also choose an angled front barrel with 35-degree, 90-degree or Periscope variants. Unlike the mounts, the front barrels are not interchangeable, so if you need more than one angle, you will need to buy multiple lenses.
LAOWA also makes a 0.7x focal reducer to reduce the crop factor when using cameras with S35 sensors. This boosts the effective maximum aperture up to T5.6.
Construction
The LAOWA Probe Zoom lenses have a 13.8-inch (35 cm) waterproof tubular design. The robust construction provides protection against moisture and dust, making the lenses ideal for challenging environments. It’s no surprise that the Probe Zoom lenses each weigh over 3 pounds (1,400 g). The lenses also feature standard gears on the aperture, focus and zoom rings for use with follow focus controls. That’s useful, since they are fully manual with no auto features.
Zoom range
The 15-35mm Probe Zoom delivers a field of view ranging from 110.5 to 63.4 degrees, with a 2.3x zoom ratio. However, the maximum aperture is only T12. With the 15-24mm lens, you get a reduced field of view range from 110.5 to 84.1 degrees, but a wider maximum aperture of T8. Both lenses have nine-bladed irises.
The lenses are also parfocal, so you can zoom while recording without losing focus. This means you can shoot crash zooms and dolly zooms for dramatic effect. Both lenses offer a remarkably short close focus distance of only 5 mm.
What we think
With LAOWA’s new Probe Zoom lenses, you can capture images unlike anything you’d get from another lens. The zoom option opens up new possibilities for dramatic close-up shots. With robust construction and gearing on all the control rings, the Probe Zoom lenses are ready for professional shoots.
Unfortunately, premium lenses come with premium price tags. You’ll need specific use cases to justify the cost unless you have very deep pockets. However, if you can afford them, or find them to rent, LAOWA’s Probe Zoom lenses will deliver footage with a wow factor.
Pricing and availability
The 15-24mm T8 LAOWA Probe Zoom lens starts at $3,499 for the direct-view option and rises to $3,899 for the Periscope model. The longer 15-35mm T12 lens costs between $3,999 and $4,399, depending on the variant. LAOWA also offers two- and four-lens bundles, up to a full set of all eight variants for $21,999. All options are available to order now.
