The Laowa FF 15-35mm T12 2.3x Macro Probe Zoom Lens is the company’s first full-frame probe lens and offers some of the most extensive zoom functionality of any probe lens on the market. Featuring a full-frame 15-35mm range, the T12 Macro Probe Zoom provides an unprecedented 2.3x zoom, giving filmmakers impressive flexibility in framing and viewpoint. Designed to unlock new perspectives, the T12 Macro Probe Zoom aims to pave the way for fresh and innovative filming techniques.
The T12 is an impressively well put-together lens. Each component of the design feels well-constructed and solid in use. Locking screws are strategically placed along the lens body to ensure each setting is secured before shooting. These include a back-focus locking screw, lens-group locking screw and rotation-knob locking screw.
With full manual control via the aperture, zoom and focus rings, the T12 keeps the shot firmly in the creator’s hands. Each ring offers a very smooth glide and consistent rotation, allowing for easy adjustments. In testing, making changes on the fly while framing a shot was quick, though the size of the lens does take some getting used to.
“The Laowa FF 15-35mm T12 2.3x Macro Probe Zoom Lens is one of the most distinctive lenses available at a consumer price point.”
This is thanks to the detachable 40 cm watertight tubular lens attachment. Available in four styles (Direct View, 35-degree, 90-degree and Periscope), the T12 can accommodate a unique range of shots. As a fully waterproof attachment, it opens up a whole new realm of creative possibilities for macro photography and filming. I was most impressed by the wide zoom range, which allowed me to set the lens in place and then zoom in even further for detailed shots.
As mentioned, it does take some getting used to if you are new to probe lenses. The long tubular attachment is made entirely of aluminum and is recommended for use with tube lens supports; one was included with the review unit. Even then, I struggled to hold the lens securely in place and set the shot appropriately. With time, it becomes easier. The point here is that, for those new to this style of lens, a learning curve is to be expected.
I received the Periscope attachment for review, and it allows for some unique and interesting shots. Hard-to-reach perspectives become much more manageable, and thanks to the 2.3x zoom, dialling in the perfect framing, focus and aperture is easy to manage. The waterproof tubular attachment is also a nice touch, and while it does take some getting used to, it gives users far more creative options for composing shots.
This is a cinema-grade lens and, as such, the image quality is impressively detailed. In testing, I found it captured detail exceptionally well when the subject was well-lit. A few of the sample shots I took were intentionally done in slightly lower light, and even with the aperture wide open, the T12 struggled to produce a clean image. In all fairness, part of that was due to my struggle to hold the lens, with its 40 cm attachment, steady. It is a learning curve. Regardless of its limitations in low light, the T12 still performs well overall. With proper lighting, image quality is sharp and detailed, especially when filming.
The T12 uses an ARRI PL mount, which can then be connected to one of several lens adapters, including Canon EF/RF, Sony E, Nikon Z and L-Mount. For my purposes, testing was performed on a Sony A7R body here in the office, which is admittedly not a cinema-first camera. Even so, I still found that image capture worked well overall.
“This is a cinema-grade lens and, as such, the image quality is impressively detailed.”
There is a lot to like about Laowa’s first attempt at a macro probe lens. For starters, despite the learning curve for new users, it offers considerable value to those looking to level up their filmmaking. The detachable waterproof tubular lens extensions open up a whole new level of what can be achieved, even by amateur filmmakers. Even when using an entry-level camera, the T12 helps bridge the gap between professional filmmaking and hobbyists.
While the price point may seem high for those just starting out, the reality is that the T12 offers a professional level of quality and shot perspective that is typically only achievable with costly and traditionally unattainable equipment for the average user. What Laowa has done is provide a professional-level solution at a consumer-level price point, and for that, I commend the company.
The Laowa FF 15-35mm T12 2.3x Macro Probe Zoom Lens is one of the most distinctive lenses available at a consumer price point. It offers excellent image quality with a wide range of customization. Though new users will need time to learn how to use the lens, the FF 15-35mm T12 2.3x Macro Probe Zoom Lens is a strong option for those looking to raise their skills and production value in cinematic macro photography and filming.
