Laowa has announced a groundbreaking lineup at NAB Show 2026 in Las Vegas, headlined by the world’s first parfocal zoom super macro lenses, the Axon series, alongside two Ultima Broadcast Zoom lenses and the widest Probe Zoom series ever produced.
These innovations reinforce Laowa’s reputation for pushing optical boundaries in cinema and broadcast production. Laowa Lenses are sold at Adorama and B&H.
Axon Super Macro Revolution
The new Axon 45mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro 1–5x APO and Axon 17.5mm f/1.7 Ultra Macro 5–10x APO lenses represent a mechanical breakthrough. By maintaining a fixed working distance across the zoom range, they eliminate the need to reposition the camera when changing magnification. Cinematographers can now zoom seamlessly from 1x to 5x (or 5x to 10x) without risk of lens crashes or casting shadows, transforming workflows in tabletop, medical, and scientific cinematography.
Ultima Broadcast Zooms – Redefining Standards
- Ultima 25–180mm T3.8 FF Broadcast Zoom: Constant aperture, suppressed focus breathing, true parfocal performance.
- Ultima 25–600mm T4 S35 Broadcast Zoom: Delivers an impressive 24x magnification ratio with low focus breathing, offering a cost‑effective solution for long‑range acquisition in sports, wildlife, and live events.
World’s Widest Probe Zoom
Laowa also introduced production‑ready versions of its Probe Zoom series: the 15–24mm T8 and 15–35mm T12. These lenses provide the widest probe zoom range available, enabling dramatic, fluid zoom effects with precise perspective control. With Laowa’s signature long tubular barrel, they can access confined spaces, making them ideal for creative cinematography. At NAB 2026, Laowa partnered with Motorized Precision to demonstrate Probe Zoom integration with advanced motion control systems.
Highlights
- World’s first parfocal zoom super macro lenses (Axon series).
- Fixed working distance across zoom range for seamless magnification.
- Ultima Broadcast Zooms with constant aperture and true parfocal design.
- 24x magnification ratio on Ultima 25–600mm T4 S35.
- World’s widest Probe Zoom lenses (15–24mm T8, 15–35mm T12).
- Designed for tabletop, medical, scientific, sports, wildlife, and live event cinematography.
Availability
The Axon series, Ultima Broadcast Zooms, and Probe Zoom lenses will be showcased at NAB 2026, with shipping schedules to be announced later in the year.
For professionals looking to integrate Laowa’s latest optics, check listings at Amazon, explore broadcast zoom packages at B&H Photo, or compare availability at Adorama.
Buy Probe Zoom at Amazon
Shop Probe Zoom at B&H Photo
Compare Probe Zoom at Adorama
Tip: The Axon parfocal macro lenses are expected to be in high demand for tabletop and scientific cinematography.
Closing Thoughts
Laowa’s NAB 2026 showcase demonstrates its commitment to innovation in cinema and broadcast optics. With the world’s first parfocal zoom super macro lenses, high‑magnification broadcast zooms, and the widest probe zooms ever produced, Laowa continues to redefine what’s possible for filmmakers and live production professionals.
