Laowa has announced the Aksen, a new series of full-frame “ultra macro” lenses that together cover a 1–10x magnification range. The lineup consists of two offerings: the Aksen 45mm F2.8 1-5x Ultra Macro APO and the Aksen 17.5mm F1.7 5-10x Ultra Macro APO, each offered in both photo and cine versions.
One of the key features of both lenses is the parfocal magnification zoom design. The lenses behave like primes in terms of focal length (the 45mm and 17.5mm focal lengths don’t change), but they incorporate an internal mechanism that changes the magnification. This parfocal magnification system allows photographers to move through the 1-5x or 5-10x range without refocusing or changing the working distance. Additionally, because the zoom is internal, the barrel doesn’t extend and won’t interfere with flash diffusion or subjects.
Another distinguishing feature of the Aksen 5-10x is the option for a version with a coaxial lighting block built into the lens. It delivers high-contrast shadowless illumination, a technique borrowed from machine vision that Laowa says it is now making more accessible. It’s also similar to some of Laowa’s probe lenses, which feature built-in lights. The 5-10x lens is also available without coaxial lighting for $100 less.
Both lenses use an apochromatic (APO) design to reduce chromatic aberrations, which can be exaggerated at such high levels of magnification. Laowa says the Aksen series eliminates fringing for greater clarity. The 45mm 1-5x lens features 13 elements in 9 groups, while the 17.5mm 5-10x lens comprises 17 elements in 12 groups. Both feature an 11-blade aperture diaphragm. The 45mm 1-5x accepts 65mm filters, while the 17.5mm 5-10x uses 42mm filters.
The photo versions of the lenses come in Sony E, Nikon Z, Canon RF and EF, L mount, Fujifilm X and MFT mounts and cost $749, or you can buy both in a bundle to save $100. Laowa is also making video-focused versions with focus and zoom rings geared to work with cine equipment, though those versions are substantially more expensive.
Press release:
Laowa’s Aksen Series: Pushing the Boundary of High Magnification Macro with a Parfocal Zoom Design.
Anhui, China – July 31, 2026 – Laowa introduces Aksen — a new Full-frame Parfocal Zoom Ultra Macro lens series comprising the Aksen 45mm f/2.8 1–5x Ultra Macro APO and the Aksen 17.5mm f/1.7 5–10x Ultra Macro APO, each available in both photo and cine variants. The series will be available for purchase through Laowa’s official site and authorised resellers starting July 31, 2026.
First Ever Commercial 5-10x in the Market
The Aksen series fills a long-standing gap in the 1–10x Ultra Macro category, offering a compelling option for serious macro photographers, professional scientific users, and hobbyists who have long depended on high-cost, complicated DIY solutions.
Award-Winning Innovation: Named “Best Ultra Macro Lenses” by TIPA
Validating its groundbreaking optical engineering, the Aksen series has already received industry-wide acclaim, winning the prestigious Best Ultra Macro Lens category at the TIPA (Technical Image Press Association) World Awards. (Previously named “Axon”).
Re-explore the 1-10x Magnification Range:
Beyond the headline 1–5x & 5–10x ultra-high magnification, the lens set distinguishes itself with its parfocal zoom design. Unlike traditional macro lenses, the Aksen maintains focus as the magnification ratio changes — no refocusing needed when zooming in or out. No more
readjusting the entire setup, including camera position, working distance, and lighting placement. This avoids interrupting the workflow and reduces setup time. The Aksen series maintains a fixed working distance of 40.35mm (1–5x) and 22.48mm (5–10x), while its internal zoom mechanism keeps the lens barrel completely stationary throughout the entire magnification range. No more extended barrel interrupting the flash diffusion setup — or potentially damaging the subject.
Optical Excellence With APO Design:
The sophisticated APO design delivers exceptional optical performance. Since chromatic issues typically escalate at extreme magnification levels, the Aksen effectively eliminates fringing. Providing the unmatched clarity and sharpness that the creative community demands from their optical solutions.
Coaxial Light Ready:
The Aksen 5–10x features a coaxial block built directly into the lens — a technology traditionally reserved for machine vision, now made accessible to all photographers by Laowa.
This optical configuration heightens contrast at the target’s edges and provides shadowless
illumination, opening up a new dimension of creative lighting possibilities. It can be used on its
own or combined with other techniques to create a truly unique piece of art.
Accessories:
The Aksen features a specially designed tripod collar* that attaches directly to any Arca-Swiss
compatible tripod. Via the 15mm rods, users can mount a variety of accessories — including a
follow focus. All 5–10x lenses also include a Ø8mm Coaxial Light Adapter for secure and
convenient coaxial light attachment.
*Cine version included. Photo version sold separately.
Pricing & Availability:
The Aksen Ultra Macro Series will be available for purchase starting July 31, 2026, through
the Laowa official website (https://www.venuslens.net/) and authorised resellers.
Abby Ferguson holds an MFA in photography and blends a fine-art background with extensive editorial and commercial experience. She built and led an in-house imaging program for a large vacation rental company and has served as an associate editor at Popular Photography. She also teaches at a local community college and serves on its Photographic Technology Program Advisory Board, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for the medium.
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