The Venus Optics Laowa Aksen 17.5mm f/1.7 5-10x Ultra Macro APO Lens with Coaxial Illumination (FUJIFILM X) is a specialized ultra-macro lens designed to reveal extreme detail in subjects that are difficult to capture with conventional macro optics. Offering an impressive 5:1 to 10:1 magnification range, the Aksen 17.5mm allows photographers and filmmakers to capture tiny subjects at larger-than-life scale for scientific imaging, product photography, nature work, and creative macro cinematography.
The lens maintains a consistent 0.9" working distance from the front element throughout its magnification range, providing predictable positioning when working with extremely small subjects. Its internal parfocal zoom design maintains sharp focus while adjusting magnification, helping streamline composition and reducing the need for constant refocusing as you move between 5x and 10x reproduction.
An APO optical design helps minimize chromatic aberrations and color fringing, producing cleaner edges and more accurate color when capturing highly detailed subjects. The integrated coaxial illumination system further enhances its specialized macro capabilities by directing light along the optical axis, helping illuminate subjects that can be challenging to light effectively at extreme magnifications.
Despite its powerful macro capabilities, the Aksen 17.5mm maintains a compact form factor suitable for both handheld operation and more controlled setups. It can also be incorporated into motorized focus-stacking rigs, making it a versatile option for workflows requiring exceptional depth and detail at extreme magnifications.
Combining 5-10x magnification, parfocal operation, APO optics, and integrated coaxial illumination, the Laowa Aksen 17.5mm f/1.7 Ultra Macro APO Lens provides a powerful imaging solution for exploring subjects far beyond the capabilities of traditional macro lenses.
Coaxial Illumination
A coaxial lighting system projects light directly down the camera's optical axis using an internal beam splitter, eliminating shadow and lens reflections for extreme detail. Thanks to the lack of angled light, the coaxial lighting brings out hidden colors and textures instead of causing glare, allowing you to see essential details such as scratches and dents. It is ideal for use on flat, highly reflective surfaces such as microchips, circuit boards, and polished metal.
Apochromatic Correction
The Aksen series is engineered to eliminate chromatic aberration, even at higher magnifications. The apochromatic correction effectively prevents color fringing, allowing you to capture more details and texture without distortion in your final image.
Parfocal Internal Zoom
Adjust your magnification without moving your camera or subject thanks to the innovative parfocal zoom design. The Aksen maintains sharp focus across the entire magnification range, while the internal zoom allows you to shift magnification without disturbing your lights or hitting your subject. Because the weight distribution also remains identical, this lens is ideal for videography as well as macro photography. Exposure changes are the only thing that need to be compensated for as you magnify your subject.
Additional Details
- Eleven-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing focus falloff when using shallow depth of field.
- Wide-angle design benefits the high magnification design by providing greater depth of field compared to telephoto or long lens designs.
- When adapting the Aksen to medium format cameras, there will be varying levels of vignetting depending on the magnification.
- Lightweight physical design makes the lens easier to use handheld and offers more room for illuminating subjects.
